Even as handset makers strive to improve and prolong cell phone battery life, at some point, all phones still need to be charged. Charging is easy—you simple attach your phone to the charging cable, plug the cable into either an outlet or, if it’s USB compatible, your computer. Most phones are usually fully charged in about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the model. Every phone comes with a charging cable, but right now, not all manufacturers use the same type of cable. If you forget your cable or worse, lose it, it’s not always a simple matter of just borrowing one. That issue will soon be a thing of the past when the universal charger comes out, which the GSMA has promised will be available by 2012. A universal charger that works with just about any phone will be quite convenient, but if you can’t wait that long, Powermat has a multi-model charger available now. Not only does the Powermat charger work with multiple phone models, it’s wireless. The mat itself plugs into a standard outlet, or a USB port, and then devices are charged via a Powermat Receiver that works on magnetic induction. Basically, energy is transferred from a power source to a receiving device via an electromagnetic field. The best example of magnetic induction charging is an Oral-B rechargeable toothbrush. The Powermat Receiver is what allows a device to accept magnetic induction charging. There are two Powermat models—one for home and office, and a portable one that is hinged so it can be folded closed. Receivers are available for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and four BlackBerry models—Bold, Curve 8300, Curve 8900, and the Pearl. There is also a receiver for the Nintendo DS. The most interesting product in the Powermat line is the Universal Powercube Receiver. The receiver works with both Powermat models. Two interchangeable tips, a micro USB tip and a mini USB tip, are included, which attach to the Powercube’s cable. The micro USB tip makes the Powercube compatible with many Motorola and LG phones, and several Bluetooth headsets. The mini USB tip works with many other Motorola phones and Bluetooth headsets, as well as the T-Mobile G1, several BlackBerry models, and some GPS devices. The Powermat is a bit on the pricey side. Both charging mats sell for $99.99. Receivers for Apple products cost $39.99 each, while BlackBerry and Nintendo receivers, and the Powercube universal receiver cost $29.99 each. As with most electronic gadgets, the price will probably come down after it’s been out for a while. It’s still definitely worth a look.
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