T-Mobile's new charger line is surprisingly interesting: fast, extra port, integrated cord management
By Chris Ziegler 
posted May 7th 2010 1:35PM
posted May 7th 2010 1:35PM
We know what you're thinking: what could possibly be cool about a simple micro-USB charger? Well, lots of things, turns out -- and T-Mobile's latest three-pack of aftermarket chargers might just be worth the cost of admission over the standard wall wart your phone's manufacturer tossed in the box. There are three models available -- a wall charger, car charger, and 2-in-1 model that'll do both -- and all of them promise to charge your handset 20 to 50 percent faster than a standard model. What's cooler, though, is that they all feature extra USB ports in addition to the built-in micro-USB cord, allowing you to plug in and charge a second device of your choice, and the cord's never going to get too messed up thanks to an integrated spool that lets you keep everything wound up when it's not in use. If you're feeling green, take heart -- both the wall and 2-in-1 models have the best possible Energy Star rating. They're available now for between $30 and $40 online and in "select" stores, with a nationwide roll-out following on July 19. Follow the break for T-Mobile's press release. Micro USB Chargers
T-Mobile Micro USB Chargers are designed to provide customers with a convenient, fast-charging solution, while helping to reduce the number of cords needed for charging other electronic devices. Chargers include the Micro USB Car Charger, Micro USB 2 in 1 Wall Charger and the Micro USB Wall Charger. Each of these chargers are:
T-Mobile Micro USB Chargers are designed to provide customers with a convenient, fast-charging solution, while helping to reduce the number of cords needed for charging other electronic devices. Chargers include the Micro USB Car Charger, Micro USB 2 in 1 Wall Charger and the Micro USB Wall Charger. Each of these chargers are:
- Fast and Energy Efficient: All three Micro USB Chargers provide customers with a faster charge time - charging phones at least 20% faster and up to 50% faster than standard chargers (depending on the phone). The chargers also feature a high-efficiency LED, which activates when the charger is plugged into a power source, reminding customers that the charger is still in use – providing a visual prompt to unplug chargers when not in use. The Micro USB Wall Charger and Micro USB 2 in 1 charger have a Level 5 Energy Star rating – the highest rating for consumer electronics.
- Convenient: The Micro USB Chargers feature an extra USB port, allowing customers to charge other electronic devices using the same charger, such as an MP3 player, Bluetooth headset or digital camera. Having one charger compatible with many electronic devices eliminates the need for additional cords and equipment when traveling.
- Neat and Tidy: The Micro USB Chargers provide users with a neat and tidy cord management solution. All Micro USB Chargers have a channel that allows the cord to be wound around and contained with a small clip while not in use. In addition to keeping things neat, the design helps preserve the life of the charger, by reducing the stress on the charger cord.
T-Mobile is working to standardize Micro USB Chargers across its handset line-up in support of a broader industry initiative lead by the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA). Moving to universal chargers is just one example of T-Mobile's efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its products and services. For more information about T-Mobile's eco-friendly efforts visit: http://www.mobilizewitht-mobile.com/
Key Features and Availability:
Micro USB Chargers are available to purchase online and in select T-Mobile stores, and will be available in retail stores nationwide July 19. More details are available at www.t-mobile.com/
Key Features and Availability:
Micro USB Chargers are available to purchase online and in select T-Mobile stores, and will be available in retail stores nationwide July 19. More details are available at www.t-mobile.com/
Sweet. Might have to pick this up for my incredible. Good job t-mobile. Now where's that nationwide 7.2mbs eh?
@Honestly77 21 Mbps*
wow engadget is drooling over, errr, a charger. guess that the end is nigh.
congratulations Engadget citizens, just because i'm ugly y'all downranked me.
@thisisit
Downranked because it was a stupid comment. No real offense, just was.
@RickStar,
so you too are drooling over an overprice charger? thanks but no thanks.
@thisisit
I never said that. I don't really care about chargers. I said your comment was downranked thanks to it's not very smart nature.
for $30 - $40 i'm expectime some contactless charger. pass.
Awesome. On the other hand, maybe you can live with the clutter and another half an hour of charging and get a regular aftermarket charger on eBay or Amazon for $4-$5 including shipping - 85% to 90% savings.
Looks like a generic China town charger that t-mobile slapped it's name on.
I'll wait for MonoPrice's version.
That's pretty nice considering "official" chargers from phone manufacturers don't run much cheaper.
@hated one Why would you even comment on an item that charges micro-USB devices, a standard your iPhone does not even use?
@hated one
That cable will work with this. It has a USB port. So you can stick to your 30 pin.
This would be a perfect car charger for
combining with a mini dock, so u can have 1/8" out and charge via mini USB. AND have a spot for another USB charging cable.
The only way to charge the battery faster is to increase the charge rate which leads to heat and ruined batteries. I'm sure T- Mobile will be selling those too.
Is it only me? Or does anyone else find the shape of the charger on the far right weird.
this reminds me of the old nextel bubble chargers, the ones where you could wrap the cord around it, then shove the little rubber thing into a hole.
How long till an Engadget article entitled: "T-Mobile's new charger line recalled due to fire hazard"?
Doesn't faster charging typically reduce your battery's overall lifespan? Nice.
@MBN Yeah, that's what I thought. Car chargers typically have a higher amperage to do exactly that but I'm pretty sure that it's at the expense of overall battery life. What would be much cooler is a little switch for when you really do need a fast charge. Otherwise, I don't care if it takes 30 minutes or 7 hours when I plug my phone in at night.
Kind of looks like the Nokia Booklet 3G charger. Rounded top with a built-in cable spindle.
Where are they available on the website. Can anyone provide a link to the actual purchase page online? I can't find it anywhere. Please provide a link. I want to purchase these chargers. Thank You.
@yoboy94 I've never seen a company make a product so hard to buy. It's like reverse capitalism. No links to be found.