http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/ Engadget Comments for Powermat wireless chargers unleashed into the atmosphere, for real http://www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/]]>Oct 6th 2009 1:14AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_Hy02V5zrY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU4lb5L8GLU]]>Oct 6th 2009 1:15AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:19AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:18AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:45AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 2:31AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 3:20AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
I did a report on these 2 years ago.]]>Oct 6th 2009 1:16AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:17AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:20AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:23AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Colour me unimpressed.]]>Oct 6th 2009 3:22AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
http://shop.crackberry.com/blackberry-charging-pod/6A39A5513.htm]]>Oct 6th 2009 1:19AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:20AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:26AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 1:54AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 2:02AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 2:11AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 3:34PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 2:21AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 2:27AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
This means that the manufacturer has to create a converter for each specifc device, because each device has a different shape and power connector. So an iphone needs a special converter different than a Nintendo DS, for example. So unless they make a converter for your device, you can't use this system. And of course, the converter has to somehow attach to the device, which makes your device bulkier.

If this takes off, the manufacturer would then try to work with device manufacturers and battery manufacturers to develop integrated batteries that have the converter built in. Then they'd be far less bulky and wouldn't require you to buy an additonal converter. But this is a long shot unless
a) this company "owns" the market for "wireless" charging, and everyone wants to jump on board with them alone, or
b) an international body agrees on a standard for wireless charging so that every battery and device manufacturer will be willing to invest in development.

In the meantime, if this stuff doesn't take off, then the manufacturer of this wireless charging system won't have sufficient money to invest in building further converters for other devices. The trick for them will be in deciding which devices would sell the most - thus they've got converters for iphones, DS, and a few others to start with.]]>Oct 6th 2009 2:35AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 4:04AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 12:17PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
I think that this technology is a flop and will not be going anywhere soon.]]>Oct 6th 2009 11:47AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Also, that iPhone case would drive me nuts. Bad enough most cases don't let me easily dock my phone in my car - I have to open up something to slide it in the cradle I have there - same as at home. But the micro port will mess things up more too. One of the nice features of the iPhone is the iPod functionality. Any accessory that makes that more of a pain for my drive is one I will pass on.

That said. If there was an adapter for my camcorder, my laptop and my DSLR, then I would be dropping them on this pad every day. ]]>Oct 6th 2009 3:14AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/]]>Oct 6th 2009 4:09AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
You might say "well you can just plug it in only when you want to charge it" but if thats the case, then why did i even purchase the thing in the first place. if i have to plug it in every time it defeats the convenience of being able to place the gadget down and charge it.

Maybe if it was something similar to the rechargable batteries in my Wiimote where it repalces the original battery and battery cover and integrates it into the original form. then i would be on board with the whole thing.]]>Oct 6th 2009 3:48AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Not only do you have to don a rubbish sleave, but it practically renders the phone unusable while it's charging! I dunno bout the rest of you, but when my phone's charging, the charger cable is usually stretched to the full extent so my phone can still sit beside me on the couch and be used like it's meant to be!

Do you want to delicately stand over your phone and poke it to send a text while it's on the mat? I sure dont.]]>Oct 6th 2009 4:25AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 6:14AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Also, the home/office mat is $100 + $40 (if you have the iPhone 3G) for the special powermat case.

I would buy this if it didn't need all of those silly universal tips and the magnetic backing for everything that you own.

]]>Oct 6th 2009 7:17AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/1. the sleeves are bulky. They double the weight and thickness of the iPhone.
2. there is a limited number of sleeves available.
3. @ $100 for the mat and $40 for each sleeve, i have to agree with most of the other commenters in that is more practical to buy a dock that all you have to do is drop the device into to charge.
4. this concept would be better received if the sleeves also stored a charge like the Mophie Juice Pack.

Good concept. Needs more refinement. ]]>Oct 6th 2009 8:06AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 9:40AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
That being said, there are still some downsides. I have to remove the case if I want to sync it to iTunes or charge it in my car. Actually, that's really the only downside I can think of. It is more durable than the silicon Belkin cover I used to have that ripped and can't come apart like a slider case.]]>Oct 6th 2009 10:18AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Granted ALOT of stuff is mini-usb, which is easy to come by and cheap, the clutter this device can save is very tempting.

I DO however agree the price is a little steep, but i'm sure they need to re-coop their R&D costs, and someone has to pay that :P]]>Oct 6th 2009 10:29AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 12th 2009 3:51AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 5:15PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 6th 2009 11:39PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Check out the TED video on WiTricity if you haven't seen it yet. http://tr.im/AHHH or www.witricity.com

That gives a better explanation of WiTricity and it's more practical uses. ]]>Oct 7th 2009 11:29PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 13th 2009 12:10AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/I think the only way the comments could get any snarkier is if the thing was made by Apple.]]>Oct 13th 2009 4:04AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Maybe next time they will get it right.]]>Oct 13th 2009 9:35AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 13th 2009 12:16PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 15th 2009 11:05PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/Oct 22nd 2009 2:02AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
There's a better idea: see my post arguing for standardized batteries and connectors, here: http://bit.ly/1USuud.]]>Nov 5th 2009 3:05PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/06/powermat-wireless-chargers-unleashed-into-the-atmosphere-for-re/
Alas! gone are the days when universities/companies produced true innovators, scientists, and investors, now we just produce a really bad brand of hybrid scientist-entrepreneurs who think of only making a quick buck instead of innovating.

Thanks, but I work too hard for my money to give it these morons.]]>Dec 7th 2009 11:00AM