Can you imagine charging all your devices by just dropping them onto a surface without messing with cables or connectors? Just pull your mobile device from your pocket, place it on the special tray, and inductive charging works its magic…it’s that easy (at least in concept). With inductive charging, the task of powering your device is arguably easier and one which requires one less cable to worry about. Here are a selection of inductive charging solutions and some pros and cons about wireless charging.
Of course the catch with inductive charging, the same technology that charges your cordless toothbrush, is users are required to add a slide or snap-on receiver case for devices to work with these cordless charging solutions. This means bulkier form factors, though one could argue these double up as protective casing anyway and we like the idea of reducing the amount of times we need to plug-in over and over (thus our love for the Eye-Fi).
Currently inductive charging is a compromise between form versus function, alongside a battle of standards (you can’t use one brand of charging sleeve with another brand’s charging mat), so the applicable desirability is a personal choice. We’re just waiting for the day when Android devices, iPhones/iPads and even handheld gaming devices all offer inductive charging as a built-in feature…
Everyone knows Duracell when it comes to batteries, so no big surprise they’re on the forefront of inductive charging solutions. With their myGrid, you simply attach a Power Sleeve or Power Clip to each device and drop it onto myGrid to charge. You can charge up to 4 devices at once. Like your cordless electric toothbrush, the connections are safe to touch without worry of electrocution, and using the device helpssave energy, as it avoids over-charging thanks to an automatic auto-off once devices are fully charged.
The Powerplate induction charger might be worth considering for older iPhone and Blackberry Curve 8900 users, especially since they’re being heavily discounted. Arguably one of the nicer looking power supplying surfaces, the Powerplate is due for an update for newer models.
The Powermat 2x Wireless Charging Mat is a design-friendly wirelessly charging in multiple locations in the home and office, thanks to a streamlined footprint, making it a nightstand-friendly option for HTC, Apple, Blackberry, Motorola and even Nintendo DS users. We appreciate the unit notifies a charging connection has been made using a telltale sound; a second, similar sound is heard when the device is removed. Communication between the mat and the receiver (via RFID) allows the mat to deliver an exact amount of power for the proper length of time so that the transfer of power is safe and efficient and no energy is wasted. When a device reaches full charge, power is shut off to that device, which avoids overcharging of the device’s battery as well as saves energy.
With the Energizer Inductive Charger, there’s never been an easier way to stay charged and stay organized. And because it’s built with Qi, the new universal standard for inductive charging, the Energizer Inductive Charger will power any Qi-enabled device now and for many years to come. Simply place a Qi-enabled door or sleeve on your smartphone, set it down on the charger and you’re done. We love the simplicity of the whole process!
By Joel Pirela
This story appears in partnership with Unplggd, a site for people who embrace technology and design in their home.