Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget 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/<![CDATA[Scientists tweak wireless power transfer, Tesla nods happily in his grave]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/nc-state-university-wireless-power-transfer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/nc-state-university-wireless-power-transfer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/16/nc-state-university-wireless-power-transfer/#comments nc-state-university-wireless-power-transfer

Wireless charging may be all the rage these days, but actually beaming electricity -- as sketched above by the man Tesla himself -- still has some snags. North Carolina State U researchers have found a way to possibly vanquish the biggest problem: the difficulty of exactly matching resonant frequencies to amplify current. If external factors like temperature change the tuning of a transmitter even slightly then power drops will occur, but circuitry developed by the NC State scientists would allow receivers to detect these changes and automatically re-tune themselves to match. This could make for more potent car and device charging in the future and, if they stretch the distances a bit, maybe we'll finally get the wire-free utopia Nikola dreamed up 120 years ago.

Scientists tweak wireless power transfer, Tesla nods happily in his grave originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charging stationChargingStationEVinductive chargingInductiveChargingMagnetic InductionMagneticInductionNC StateNC State UniversityNcStateNcStateUniversityNorth Carolina State UniversityNorthCarolinaStateUniversityTeslawireless chargingwireless powerwireless power consortiumwireless power transferWirelessChargingWirelessPowerWirelessPowerConsortiumWirelessPowerTransferwitricityWed, 16 May 2012 11:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Duracell Powermat WiCC could bring wireless charging to any smartphone, we go hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/duracell-powermat-wicc-wireless-charging-card/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/duracell-powermat-wicc-wireless-charging-card/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/26/duracell-powermat-wicc-wireless-charging-card/#comments Powermat may have a bright future, but the company's products to date have been expensive, slightly clunky and a generally imperfect solution for bringing wireless power to mobile devices. That could all change with WiCC. The Wireless Charging Card (WiCC) is an IEEE Power Matters Alliance (PMA) standard, with the potential to integrate Duracell Powermat technology within every mobile gadget. The incredibly thin device resembles those wafer-like SmartMedia cards once used in early digital cameras, with a similar form factor, but significantly more practicality. Each WiCC includes all the PowerMat circuitry found in the company's charging cases, while also doubling as an NFC antenna. The card's success is of course contingent on cooperation from device manufacturers, who will need to add a slim connector above the battery leads, including two for power, two for NFC and two for data -- an app will monitor charging. Powermat reps say that such a connector would cost pennies to implement, however, making it a potentially easy sell.

Powermat President Daniel Schreiber sees this as a major breakthrough for the smartphone industry, saying "we're going to do for wireless power what the memory card did for storage in mobile phones." We had a chance to take a look at a mock-up of the wireless card at MWC, which was resting just above the battery in a Samsung Galaxy S II. Because the phone's battery is slightly recessed, both the card and battery fit below the device's original backplate -- the WiCC lies flush with the phone's camera lens. Overall, we think there's some serious potential here, assuming device manufacturers are game to come on board. Still, don't expect to see these hitting stores anytime this year -- the company expects its other products to come to market long before the Wireless Charging Card. So for now, jump past the break to take a closer look, but don't make any plans to toss that power adapter just yet.

Gallery: Duracell Powermat WiCC hands-on

Continue reading Duracell Powermat WiCC could bring wireless charging to any smartphone, we go hands-on (video)

Duracell Powermat WiCC could bring wireless charging to any smartphone, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargingcordlesscordless chargingCordlessChargingduracellduracell powermatduracell powermat wiccduracell powermat Wireless Charging CardDuracellPowermatDuracellPowermatWiccDuracellPowermatWirelessChargingCardexclusivehands-oninductiveinductive charginginductive powerInductiveChargingInductivePowermobilepostcrosspowerpowermatvideowiccwirelesswireless chargingWireless Charging Cardwireless powerWirelessChargingWirelessChargingCardWirelessPowerSun, 26 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/sony-cyber-shot-tx300v-inductive-charging-camera-and-dock-hands/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/sony-cyber-shot-tx300v-inductive-charging-camera-and-dock-hands/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/sony-cyber-shot-tx300v-inductive-charging-camera-and-dock-hands/#comments You may have thought that Sony's Cyber-shot TX200V was the company's most powerful point-and-shoot to date, but that's not exactly true. The company has a Japan-only version of the TX200V called the TX300V, and it's quite a compelling upgrade. The camera's most appealing addition comes in the form of a wireless charging and transfer dock -- it refuels your pocket snapper through inductive charging while also wirelessly transferring images to your computer using TransferJet. It can also draw power from your computer's USB port (no AC adapter required). Oh, and it ships in the camera box.

Sadly, there aren't any plans to sell this iteration outside of Japan, and Sony's mum on pricing and availability. The camera transferred images and charged without issue during our demo (the Charge indicator lit up, at least -- we didn't stick around to watch it charge the camera). We went hands-on with the TX300V and its charging dock at CP+ in Yokohama, and you can check the camera kit out in all its glossy black glory just past the break.

Gallery: Sony Cyber-shot TX300V hands-on

Continue reading Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video)

Sony Cyber-shot TX300V inductive charging camera and dock hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraschargingcp pluscp plus 2012cp+cp+ 2012Cp+2012cp-plusCpPlusCpPlus2012Cyber-shotCyber-shot DSC-TX200VCyber-shot DSC-TX300VCyber-shot TX200VCyber-shotDsc-tx200vCyber-shotDsc-tx300vCyber-shotTx200vd-slrdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrDSC-TX200VDSC-TX300Vdslrhands-oninductioninductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingjapanphotographypowersonySony DSC-TX300VSony TX200VSony TX300VSonyDsc-tx300vSonyTx200vSonyTx300vtokyotrade showtrade showsTradeShowTradeShowstransferjetTX200VTX300VvideoThu, 09 Feb 2012 01:41:00 EST<![CDATA[TI's wireless charger for tablets does amazing things with electrons, sticky tape]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/14/tis-wireless-charger-for-tablets-does-amazing-things-with-elect/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/14/tis-wireless-charger-for-tablets-does-amazing-things-with-elect/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/14/tis-wireless-charger-for-tablets-does-amazing-things-with-elect/#comments Either TI has the hots for Arduino in a big way, or its latest wireless charging kit isn't quite ready for mass production. When it does arrive, however, it promises to do away with those cumbersome specialized sleeves and back covers that are currently needed for inductive charging. Instead, it'll deliver efficient in a package that's small enough to be installed as part of a device's internal circuitry. In addition to the Qi-standard 5W version we glimpsed a while back, the company is also working on a 10W variant for the iPad 2 and other tablets, which could wipe the smile off LaunchPort's face and perhaps make MicroUSB 3.0 superfluous before it even gets here.

TI's wireless charger for tablets does amazing things with electrons, sticky tape originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10wapplebatterychargingcharging coilChargingCoilinductive chargingInductiveChargingipad 2Ipad2qitablettabletstexas instrumentsTexasInstrumentstiwireless chargingWirelessChargingSat, 14 Jan 2012 09:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Fulton Innovation powers phones in your handbag, shows off inductive charging support for tablets (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-displays-wireless-power-within-your-handbag-i/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-displays-wireless-power-within-your-handbag-i/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-displays-wireless-power-within-your-handbag-i/#comments Fulton Innovation has a knack for coming out with the latest -- ahem -- innovations in the rapidly-expanding world of inductive charging, and this year the crew showed up at Pepcom Digital Experience to show off the company's progress in the world of wireless power. Today its offerings, most of which are still in the works and not ready for final production as of yet, include the ability to charge your handset through your handbag. In addition, it's the first company to find a way to utilize inductive charging through a metal surface; last but not least, Fulton was showing off the upcoming medium-power Qi standard, which is capable of powering up tablets. Check out the video and gallery below to see the new techniques in development for wireless charging.

Gallery: Fulton Innovation wireless charging hands-on

Continue reading Fulton Innovation powers phones in your handbag, shows off inductive charging support for tablets (video)

Fulton Innovation powers phones in your handbag, shows off inductive charging support for tablets (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 23:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012fultonfulton innovationFultonInnovationhands-oninductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilepostcrossqivideowirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingwpcMon, 09 Jan 2012 23:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Duracell Powermat hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/duracell-powermat-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/duracell-powermat-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/duracell-powermat-hands-on-video/#comments
Back in September, as you may recall, Duracell struck a joint venture with Powermat, as part of an effort to "advance and globalize wireless charging." At CES this week, the two companies are putting the fruits of their partnership on full display, and we were lucky enough to get a sneak peek at their latest inductive innovation. The basic idea behind the initiative is to bring wireless charging platforms to a variety of environs, including desk drawers, toy boxes and even sports arenas. In fact, Duracell Powermat are already planning to install their circular grommets (pictured above) at various locations across Madison Square Garden, allowing concertgoers and Knick fans to inductively charge their smartphones directly on a bartop. This system, however, isn't limited to the smartphone realm -- something Duracell Powermat was quick to point out, with a prototype desk drawer and toy chest, both of which are capable of wirelessly charging a wide range of devices. The companies have also developed software capable of monitoring the progress of a device's battery charge, which they displayed, in prototype form, on a tablet at their booth. Unfortunately, there's no sign that we can expect to see this technology appear in actual products anytime soon, but we were told to "stay tuned." In the meantime, check out the gallery below for some more images, and be sure to head past the break for our hands-on video.

Gallery: Duracell Powermat



Mat Smith contributed to this report.

Continue reading Duracell Powermat hands-on (video)

Duracell Powermat hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012duracellinductive chargingInductiveChargingpowermatvideoMon, 09 Jan 2012 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Fulton Innovation ready to show off new wireless charging techniques at CES]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/fulton-innovation-ces/#comments Judging by the number of announcements the company makes this time of year, Fulton Innovation absolutely loves CES. And as to be expected, the inductive charging superstars are tackling CES 2012 head-on to show off the techniques it's been working on for the past year. At this year's show, Fulton will demonstrate the ability to wirelessly charge through a metal surface, show off a car with interior surfaces enabled with the Qi inductive charging standard and display the technology being used inside a handbag. We're pretty eager to see how it all works in real life, so we'll bring you coverage as the show progresses. Feel free to gaze upon the press release below in the meantime.

Continue reading Fulton Innovation ready to show off new wireless charging techniques at CES

Fulton Innovation ready to show off new wireless charging techniques at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012fultonfulton innovationFultonInnovationinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilepostcrossqiwirelesswireless power consortiumWirelessPowerConsortiumwpcMon, 09 Jan 2012 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobee's Magic Feet and Power Bar juice up Mac peripherals, no more battery swapping for you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/mobee-magic-feet-and-power-bar-inductive-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/mobee-magic-feet-and-power-bar-inductive-charging/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/08/mobee-magic-feet-and-power-bar-inductive-charging/#comments Mobee's no stranger to the world of Mac peripherals these days, and you would've already come across the brand if swapping batteries is too much for you. Following its Magic Charger (for Apple's Magic Mouse) and Magic Bar (for Apple's wireless keyboard and Magic Trackpad), at this year's CES the company's decided to dish out an all-on-one charging station that features a second inductive charging pad plus four USB ports. But of course, there's a trade-off for this big daddy: in addition to the USB connection to your Mac, the Magic Feet also requires an AC adapter. However, given that each device has a battery life of up to 10 days only, this external power will actually come in handy for night time charging.

Alternatively, if you're not a fan of clogging up desk space with a charging station, then you can consider Mobee's Power Bar. Unlike its inductive-charging counterpart, this stick simply adds a 10-day battery and a micro-USB port to the Magic Trackpad, thus letting you plug-and-charge when needed. Oddly enough, Mobee doesn't say whether the Power Bar is also compatible with Apple's wireless keyboard, but the response we received was that it isn't a matter of technical limitation; but rather, it's simply that the company believes the Magic Bar is the better solution for owners of the wireless keyboard. Well, we'll let you be the judge.

Mobee's Magic Feet and Power Bar juice up Mac peripherals, no more battery swapping for you originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Jan 2012 13:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleCESCES 2012Ces2012charginginductive chargingInductiveChargingkeyboardmacMagic Feetmagic mousemagic trackpadMagicFeetMagicMouseMagicTrackpadMobeemousePower BarPowerBarrechargingtrackpadwirelesswireless chargingwireless keyboardWirelessChargingWirelessKeyboardSun, 08 Jan 2012 13:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Hacked Powermat lets you touch-to-charge your iPhone in stop-and-go traffic]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/26/hacked-powermat-lets-you-touch-to-charge-your-iphone-in-stop-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/26/hacked-powermat-lets-you-touch-to-charge-your-iphone-in-stop-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/26/hacked-powermat-lets-you-touch-to-charge-your-iphone-in-stop-and/#comments When you're cruising down the highway, you've got much better things to do than fiddling with iPhone cables -- like, you know, texting and playing Angry Birds. Thankfully, this handy little Powermat hack brings the fun of wireless charging to the comfort of your mobile office, to help free up your hands a bit -- at least until Siri learns how to steer. Video after the break and instructions in the source link -- but please, pull over to the side of the road before attempting to install.

Continue reading Hacked Powermat lets you touch-to-charge your iPhone in stop-and-go traffic

Hacked Powermat lets you touch-to-charge your iPhone in stop-and-go traffic originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carchargingdiyhackinductive chargingInductiveChargingiphoneminipostpowermatvideowireless chargingWirelessChargingMon, 26 Dec 2011 05:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/nissan-leaf-to-get-inductive-charging-lose-its-stem-in-2013-vi/#comments Nissan has big plans for the still-budding Leaf. The Japanese automaker lit up its impressive Leaf-powered Smart House at the Tokyo Motor Show last week, but also demoed its wireless charging solution for a much smaller crowd at the company's Oppama factory. The device uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power between a charging pad and a receiver on the bottom of the car, with an efficiency level between 80 and 90 percent -- simply park your EV directly above the system to begin charging, and monitor progress on the ground transmission unit's control panel. The pad is expected to become available as soon as 2013, but will only be compatible with new vehicles, so you won't be able to use it with an older Leaf, unfortunately. There's a silent demo video waiting for you just past the break.

Continue reading Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video)

Nissan Leaf to get inductive charging, lose its stem in 2013 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carcarschargingelectricelectric vehicleelectricityElectricVehicleevinductioninductiveinductive charginginductive powerInductiveChargingInductivePowerleafnissannissan carnissan carsnissan evnissan leafNissanCarNissanCarsNissanEvNissanLeafpowervehiclevehiclesvideowirelesswireless chargingwireless powerWirelessChargingWirelessPowerMon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rohm Wireless Power Transmission system hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/rohm-wireless-power-transmission-system-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/rohm-wireless-power-transmission-system-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/rohm-wireless-power-transmission-system-hands-on-video/#comments Wireless power demos abound at CEATEC, and Rohm Semiconductor had their own variant on hand with a complete mix of direct-draw gadgets, along with the omnipresent charging iPhone 4 (or was it a 4S?). Like Murata's prototype, the Rohm flavor uses square electrodes instead of the coils that you'll find in traditional wireless power solutions, like Qi. But unlike that seemingly identical solution from Murata, this version supports much greater power efficiency -- something in the 92 to 93 percent range (compared to the competing pad's 70-percent efficiency rating). That means that the prototype that we're looking at here loses just seven to eight percent of power during transmission -- which is still unacceptably high, mind you, but far more tolerable. Rohm's Wireless Power Transmission system also allows you to charge or power devices by placing them anywhere on the pad, rather than directly over charging positions, and it supports much greater transmission, with one prototype outputting up to 100 watts.

Since power efficiency isn't something we could verify visually, what we could see at the company's demo did appear to work quite well. Powering a gadget is as simple as dropping it on the pad. Well, resting it gently -- this is a prototype we're talking about, after all. The 50-watt pad was able to power a fan, LED light, and a couple of charging smartphones without issue. The light and fan jumped to full power as soon as they made contact. A second pad got the juices flowing to a large OLED light panel, which was plenty bright when positioned on its own pad, but glowed quite dim when joining other devices. There weren't any charging laptops on hand, like we saw over at Murata, but with power output at 50 and 100 watts, either pad could theoretically support it. Like many of the prototypes we've seen at CEATEC, there aren't any plans to actually bring the system to market, but the technology could be used in other devices. We go hands-on after the break.

Gallery: Rohm Wireless Power Supply System hands-on

Continue reading Rohm Wireless Power Transmission system hands-on (video)

Rohm Wireless Power Transmission system hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceatecceatec 2011Ceatec2011chargerchargingchibachiba japanChibaJapanelectricityhands-oninductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilepostcrossMuratapowerpowermatqirohmrohm powerrohm semiconductorrohm wireless powerRohmPowerRohmSemiconductorRohmWirelessPowertokyotokyo japanTokyoJapanvideowireless chargerwireless chargingwireless powerWirelessChargerWirelessChargingWirelessPowerThu, 06 Oct 2011 09:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Murata Wireless Power Transmission System supports laptops, we go hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-wireless-power-transmission-system-supports-laptops-we-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-wireless-power-transmission-system-supports-laptops-we-g/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/05/murata-wireless-power-transmission-system-supports-laptops-we-g/#comments Do we really need another wireless charging system that's incompatible with industry standards? Murata seems to think that we do. The company's prototype uses neither conductive nor inductive transmission, instead bringing its new capacitive coupling technology to the cordless charging mix. Capacitive coupling uses square transmitter and receiver electrodes, instead of the coils used with Qi devices. It also doesn't require a physical connection like near-obsolete conductive tech, which dictates that both the charging pad and receiving device use metal connectors that must be joined to transfer current. The Murata system is far from being production-ready, with only 70 percent efficiency (30 percent of electricity is lost during transmission). The sample the company had on hand can support 16 watts of output with a maximum of 2.1 amps, making each pad capable of charging several small gadgets, or one larger device, like a laptop.

Murata seemed more interested in demonstrating the concept behind capacitive coupling than actually proving that it works -- the laptop we saw "charging" was a plastic mockup, though the base did glow red when the laptop's charging pad came into contact (though it also glowed blue at times, as you can see in the image above). We did take a close look at an iPhone case, however, which appeared to be remarkably thin -- much thinner than models from Powermat, for example, though the case does extend below the dock connector. Another advantage of the square electrodes is that you don't need to place devices in a certain position on the mat in order for them to charge -- they simply need to be positioned within the general charging area. We take a closer look in the video after the break.

Gallery: Murata Wireless Power Transmission System

Continue reading Murata Wireless Power Transmission System supports laptops, we go hands-on (video)

Murata Wireless Power Transmission System supports laptops, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 07:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceatecceatec 2011Ceatec2011chargerchargingchibachiba japanChibaJapanelectricityhands-oninductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilepostcrossMuratapowerpowermatqitokyotokyo japanTokyoJapanvideowireless chargerwireless chargingwireless powerWirelessChargerWirelessChargingWirelessPowerWed, 05 Oct 2011 07:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Touchstone mod blesses Samsung Epic 4G Touch with inductive charging powers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/touchstone-mod-blesses-samsung-epic-4g-touch-with-inductive-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/touchstone-mod-blesses-samsung-epic-4g-touch-with-inductive-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/touchstone-mod-blesses-samsung-epic-4g-touch-with-inductive-char/#comments
The Touchstone's future is just as unclear as any other webOS product at the moment, but it's sure getting a fair share of love from the mod community. Not only did we witness the inductive-charging unit work on a modded Samsung Galaxy S Plus, a bold and daring AndroidCentral Forums member also accomplished the feat on his three-day-old Epic 4G Touch in a process that's definitely not for the faint of heart. The modder (who goes by the name of "darrenf" on the forum) offers a full step-by-step guide on exactly how to do it, but advises that it's "a pretty delicate mod" and attempting it will likely void any warranties or return policies that were attached to the phone when purchased. It also doesn't result in the most aesthetically pleasing look since the charging coil had to be attached to the outside of the phone, but it's gotta give you some massive street cred if you pull it off, right?

Touchstone mod blesses Samsung Epic 4G Touch with inductive charging powers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidchargingepic 4g touchEpic4gTouchgalaxy s iiGalaxySIigooglehackhewlett-packardhphp touchstoneHpTouchstoneinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilepostminimodmodifiedpalmpalm touchstonePalmTouchstonesamsungsamsung epic 4g touchsamsung galaxy s iiSamsungEpic4gTouchSamsungGalaxySIisprinttouchstonewireless chargingWirelessChargingMon, 19 Sep 2011 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Mr Fussy mods Samsung Galaxy S for inductive charging, without frazzling warranty (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/18/mr-fussy-mods-samsung-galaxy-s-for-inductive-charging-without-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/18/mr-fussy-mods-samsung-galaxy-s-for-inductive-charging-without-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/18/mr-fussy-mods-samsung-galaxy-s-for-inductive-charging-without-f/#comments It's not hard to find a good inductive charging smartphone these days, but German IT student Qian Qin absolutely had to have the feature on his Galaxy S Plus. What's more, it needed to be just right: no voiding of the warranty and no unsightly protrusions. So, instead of bumping his gums, he went out and purchased a Palm Pre back cover and a Touchstone dock for €30 ($40), ripped the charging circuit out of the Pre cover and stuck it into the Samsung's cover, then finally soldered a wire from the circuit to the micro-USB port (plus another wire to the microSD slot for 0V). Job done. At first, the mere mention of a webOS device gave us a twinge of sadness, but then the video after the break cheered us right up again -- you can tell within the first six seconds that this guy is a pure OCD perfectionist. You'll also find more detailed instructions at the source link, and they should work equally well for the original Galaxy S too.

Continue reading Mr Fussy mods Samsung Galaxy S for inductive charging, without frazzling warranty (video)

Mr Fussy mods Samsung Galaxy S for inductive charging, without frazzling warranty (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Sep 2011 19:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargingcustomcustomizationcustomizedGalaxy SGalaxy S PlusGalaxySGalaxySPlushackHP Palm PreHpPalmPreinductiveinductive chargerinductive chargingInductiveChargerInductiveChargingmobilepostcrossmodPalm PrePalmPreQian QinQianQinSamsungSamsung Galaxy SSamsung Galaxy S PlusSamsungGalaxySSamsungGalaxySPlusstudentTouchstonevideowebOSSun, 18 Sep 2011 19:37:00 EST<![CDATA[LaunchPort wirelessly charges iPad 2, infects users with glee (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/launchport-wirelessly-charges-ipad-2-infects-users-with-glee-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/launchport-wirelessly-charges-ipad-2-infects-users-with-glee-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/08/launchport-wirelessly-charges-ipad-2-infects-users-with-glee-v/#comments Shiny, happy people staring at iPad 2s? Why, it must be the power of inductive charging, or just hyper-enthusiastic marketing. Revealed at CEDIA 2011, Dana Innovations' recently announced LaunchPort system takes the convenience of wireless charging and slaps it on your wall. Of course, there's the regular ol' option to have your Apple slab recharge from a flat top surface, but then you'll be missing out on the 360 degree pizzazz. The price of this fancy doesn't come cheap either, with both the wall- and base-mounted options costing $200 each, plus the $150 for the mandatory PowerShuttle sleeve and the $10 pre-order fee. Now, how badly do you need to show off that Jony Ive-designed tablet? Skip past the break to witness overacting at its finest.

Continue reading LaunchPort wirelessly charges iPad 2, infects users with glee (video)

LaunchPort wirelessly charges iPad 2, infects users with glee (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple iPadApple iPad 2AppleIpadAppleIpad2BaseStationCEDIA 2011Cedia2011Dana InnovationsDanaInnovationsinductive chargingInductiveChargingiPad 2Ipad2LaunchPortPowerShuttlevideowireless chargingWirelessChargingThu, 08 Sep 2011 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Bionic loses FCC confidentiality, gets updated with pics and user manual]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/droid-bionic-hits-fcc-brings-manual/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/droid-bionic-hits-fcc-brings-manual/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/07/droid-bionic-hits-fcc-brings-manual/#comments
When it rains, it pours, and the latest in the torrential downpour of Droid Bionic news comes straight from the FCC itself: we've got a manual. The user's guide starts by confirming the usual suspects: a 1GHz dual-core processor, 4G LTE, a 4.3" screen and a rear-facing camera capable of capturing 1080p video. The good stuff comes in on page thirteen: the Motorola XT375 supports LTE, CDMA, GSM, and UTMS, a world phone with support for over 200 countries, but unlike its WiMax cousin, the Photon, UMTS support is limited to 2100MHz only. The familial similarities are still there, however, as it seems that the Bionic uses the same connector layout (micro-USB / micro-HDMI) as the Photon, but shifted further down the edge of the phone. This means, unlike the Atrix, the Photon and Bionic just might be able to share WebTop docks and accessories. Need more than just bread and butter? An inductive charging back tagged along on the handset's federal funday, and while there's no indication that it ships with its own charging mat, we'd hazard a guess that it's compatible with existing VZW inductive chargers. Want a closer look? Check out the gallery below for the teardown of your dreams.

Gallery: Droid Bionic hits FCC, gets teardown

Droid Bionic loses FCC confidentiality, gets updated with pics and user manual originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 07 Aug 2011 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioniccdmaDroidDroid BionicDroidBionicFCCgsminductive battery doorinductive chargingInductiveBatteryDoorInductiveChargingltemotorola droid bionicMotorola XT375MotorolaDroidBionicMotorolaXt375sdutmsverizonWebTopworld phoneWorldPhoneSun, 07 Aug 2011 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's inductive charging patent application finally puts its earbuds to good use]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/apples-inductive-charging-patent-application-finally-put-its-ea/#comments How seriously is Apple considering the possibility of adding inductive charging to its line of iOS devices? Seriously enough to submit some crudely drawn images to the USPTO, at least. The company's application for "Using an Audio Cable as an Inductive Charging Coil" surfaced today, featuring some interesting solutions to the problem of inductive charging. The first looks a bit like an iPhone scratching post. It's a big monolith you wrap an audio cord around several times, effectively turning the cable into an inductive receiving coil. The earphones in the example have a metal mesh that serve as a contact for charging the device.

Another proposed system also puts the earphones to work -- though without the need for that giant charging post. Instead the headphones slip into an acoustic charger, which cause their speakers to vibrate, creating a current that charges the device. As ever, just because a patent application surfaces doesn't mean a final product will ever see the light of day -- and these methods (particularly that big charging post) do seem like a long way to go to shave off the precious millimeters that inductive charging traditionally brings. But hey, Apple's all about the svelte devices, and stranger things have certainly happened.

Gallery: Apple inductive charging patent surfaces

Apple's inductive charging patent application finally puts its earbuds to good use originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applechargingearbudsearphonesheadphonesinductive chargingInductiveChargingiospatentpatent applicationPatentApplicationThu, 04 Aug 2011 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Evatran's Plugless Power wireless EV charger gets smaller, conscripts Chevy Volts for testing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/evatrans-plugless-power-wireless-ev-charger-gets-smaller-consc/#comments Evatran's Plugless Power EV charger gets smaller When it comes to technology, the old adage of "bigger is better" died a long time ago, so it's not a surprise to see "smaller is smarter" thinking apply to products and prototypes across the board. Today's (relatively) tiny wonder is Evatran's Plugless Power electric vehicle charging system: now smaller, more efficient, and primed for its first trial phase. The last time we saw Plugless Power, the system's wireless charging "station block" stretched nearly the length of a full vehicle and charged at 80 percent efficiency. Today the charge block is only slightly larger than an average hubcap, boasts a 97 percent charging efficiency, and is less picky about your car missing the wireless charger's "sweet spot." Evatran is now working on launching a test fleet of up to 12 Chevy Volts to put the system through its paces, and hopes to expand the tests to as many as 30 vehicles by January. Ready to ditch pumps and plugs forever? Start saving: a complete Plugless Power system (including vehicle retrofitting) will set you back as much as $5000 after production starts sometime in 2012. Don't be too surprised, cool stuff rarely comes cheap -- besides, that old adage has to apply to something, doesn't it?

Evatran's Plugless Power wireless EV charger gets smaller, conscripts Chevy Volts for testing originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car chargerCarChargerchargechargerelectric vehicle chargerELectric VehiclesElectricVehicleChargerElectricVehiclesEVev chargerevatranEvChargerinduction chargerinduction chargingInductionChargerInductionCharginginductive chargingInductiveChargingJ1772level 2Level2plug in 2011plug-in 2011Plug-in2011PlugIn2011pluglessplugless powerPluglessPowerproximityproximity chargerproximity chargingProximityChargerProximityChargingwireless inductionwireless powerWirelessInductionWirelessPowerMon, 01 Aug 2011 23:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Powermat accompanies MyTouch 4G Slide at retail launch, or so the manufacturer says]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/powermat-accompanies-mytouch-4g-slide-at-retail-launch-or-so-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/powermat-accompanies-mytouch-4g-slide-at-retail-launch-or-so-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/powermat-accompanies-mytouch-4g-slide-at-retail-launch-or-so-th/#comments
If you've already misplaced the charging cable for your MyTouch 4G Slide, then it's time to hustle back to your local T-Mobile retailer, where the new QWERTY handset is joined at its in-store launch by Powercube's inductive charging cover. Sure, your bank account just received $200 worth of hurt, but if you've got a $90 buffer on your credit card, what's an extra $30 for the shell and $60 for the Powermat, especially if it means keeping your phone alive? Sadly, both stores we called didn't have the cover, so you might want to give Magenta a buzz beforehand, although T-Mo's website is ready to take your money. No matter how you get it, you'll still need to keep the base station from getting buried under pizza boxes and laundry, but we know you're up to the task. Follow after the break for a slice of the PR.

Continue reading Powermat accompanies MyTouch 4G Slide at retail launch, or so the manufacturer says

Powermat accompanies MyTouch 4G Slide at retail launch, or so the manufacturer says originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesAccessoryandroidandroid 2.3Android2.3doubleshotgingerbreadgooglehtchtc doubleshothtc mytouch 4g slideHtcDoubleshotHtcMytouch4gSlideinductive chargingInductiveChargingmytouch 4g slideMytouch4gSlidepowercubepowermatt-mobilet-mobile mytouch 4g slideT-mobileMytouch4gSlideThu, 28 Jul 2011 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobile Miscellany: week of July 11, 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/mobile-miscellany-week-of-july-11-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/mobile-miscellany-week-of-july-11-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/mobile-miscellany-week-of-july-11-2011/#commentsHere's some of the other stuff that happened in the wide world of wireless for the week of July 11, 2011:
  • Samsung launched an ad campaign for the Infuse 4G which claims its colors are "so good, they fool Mother Nature." Each ad features a different animal that mistakes the Infuse's Super AMOLED Plus screen for real nature. [via Gottabemobile]
  • T-Mobile's MyTouch 4G is now available on Cincinnati Bell as the HTC Panache 4G for $200 with two-year agreement. [via MobileBurn]
  • We got a sneak peek at some of Symbian Belle's UI changes, thanks to the refreshed Design Guideline docs on Nokia's developer website. [via All About Symbian]
  • Inductive charging battery covers are now available for the HTC Thunderbolt and Incredible 2, Motorola Droid 3, and the LG Revolution. [via Droid-Life]
  • Motorola officially announced the Fire, aka XT316. It's a portrait QWERTY handset with Gingerbread and is currently available in China. In the coming months it should work its way to Taiwan, Latin America, and Europe. The XT316 is going for $230. [via Unwired View]
  • The popular GroupMe messaging app is now available for Windows Phone and can be downloaded for free in the Marketplace. [via MobileBurn and Gizmodo]
  • Romanian carrier Cosmote has launched a 21.6 Mbps HSPA+ broadband service. (thx lonel) [via ZF Business Hi-Tech]

Mobile Miscellany: week of July 11, 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gandroidandroid 2.3android gingerbreadAndroid2.3AndroidGingerbreadattbattery coverBatteryCoverbellechargerscincinnati bellCincinnatiBellcosmotefiregingerbreadhspa+htchtc panachehtc panache 4gHtcPanacheHtcPanache4ginductive battery chargerinductive chargingInductiveBatteryChargerInductiveCharginginfuseinfuse 4gInfuse4gltemiscellaneousMMmobilemobile miscellanymobile newsMobileMiscellanyMobileNewsmobmiscmotorolamotorola firemotorola xt316MotorolaFireMotorolaXt316mytouch 4gMytouch4gnewsromaniaroundupsamsungsamsung infuse 4gSamsungInfuse4gsymbiansymbian bellesymbian updateSymbianBelleSymbianUpdatet-mot-mobilet-mobile mytouch 4gT-mobileMytouch4gverizonvzwweeklywireless chargingWirelessChargingxt316Mon, 18 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid 3 accessories leaked, Moto's new slider gets wireless charging back plate and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/droid-3-accessories-leaked-motos-new-slider-gets-wireless-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/droid-3-accessories-leaked-motos-new-slider-gets-wireless-char/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/01/droid-3-accessories-leaked-motos-new-slider-gets-wireless-char/#comments So, you've read the rumors, scoped out the leaks, and circled multiple dates on your calendar -- just to cover all of your Droid 3 bases. You can now add a catalog of accessories to the stack of intel for this Motorola slider, including an inductive battery door (most likely harnessing the power of Qi), and a smattering of cases and screen protectors. Also thrown in the mix is a 1930mAh extended battery so you can fuel a marathon of South Park reruns and take full advantage of the last week of unlimited data from Verizon. Although knowing about the accessories is nice, we'd prefer to find out the important stuff... ya know, like how much Big Red's new Droid will cost.

Droid 3 accessories leaked, Moto's new slider gets wireless charging back plate and more originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Jul 2011 08:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesaccessoryandroiddroiddroid 3Droid3extended batteryExtendedBatteryhandsetinduction chargerinduction chargingInductionChargerInductionCharginginductive chargerinductive chargingInductiveChargerInductiveChargingMotorolaqismartphoneVerizonvzwFri, 01 Jul 2011 08:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon stores struck by HTC Thunderbolt Wireless Charging Battery Cover]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/verizon-stores-struck-by-htc-thunderbolt-wireless-charging-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/verizon-stores-struck-by-htc-thunderbolt-wireless-charging-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/27/verizon-stores-struck-by-htc-thunderbolt-wireless-charging-batte/#commentsVerizon stores struck by HTC Thunderbolt Wireless Charging Battery Cover Solid as HTC's Thunderbolt may be from a software perspective, its battery life has proven to be less than striking -- unless you've been rocking it with that ultra-chunky extended battery. In comparison, its streamlined and Qi-certified battery cover was slated as another option, but there's been nary a mention of it since that accidental tease on Verizon's website in April. According to Droid Life, it's actually now available from Verizon retail locations for about $30 to complement the $70 charging base -- great for users who: a. hold disdain for cables, b. don't mind a few extra charges, or c. wear skinny jeans. There's no mention of when we'll see the hopefully convenient accessory pop up on Verizon's website, but at least it's out there somewhere for those willing to look.

Verizon stores struck by HTC Thunderbolt Wireless Charging Battery Cover originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 01:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4g4G LTE4gLteAndroidCellphonehtchtc thunderboltHtcThunderboltinduction chargerinduction chargingInductionChargerInductionChargingInductive battery backinductive chargerinductive chargingInductiveBatteryBackInductiveChargerInductiveChargingLTEqithunderboltverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingwpcMon, 27 Jun 2011 01:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/apple-patent-app-sheds-light-on-wireless-charging-dreams-nfmr-l/#comments Apple threw quite the wireless party by introducing PC Free and iCloud at yesterday's WWDC keynote, but it seems that the engineers in Cupertino may have even more tricks up their sleeve. Judging by a recently filed patent application, the company's hoping to add charging to its list of cord-cutting services. Specifically, the patent describes building a NFMR (near-field magnetic resolution) power supply directly into your iMac so it can charge your iPhone, iPad, or even peripherals -- such as a keyboard or mouse, when equipped with a special antenna -- without the assistance of your ol' trusty charging cords or batteries. Sporting a somewhat mature iMac that's operating sans NFMR? Pop a special USB dongle in that bad boy and presto, you're good to go. The patent points out that the range is limited to one meter, though there may be ways to install repeaters in peripherals to extend that distance further. Of course, patents won't guarantee we'll be grabbing the scissors to cut our cords anytime soon, but at least we won't have to rely on these things for the rest of eternity.

Filed under:

Apple patent app sheds light on wireless charging dreams, NFMR love affair originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antennaapplechargechargingdongleelectricityenergyiMacinductive chargingInductiveChargingiOSiPadiPhoneiPod TouchIpodTouchNFMRpatentpatent apppatent applicationPatentAppPatentApplicationperipheralspowerrepeaterusbUSB dongleUsbDonglewirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingTue, 07 Jun 2011 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Charge joins the wireless charging club, gets its own inductive battery cover]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/droid-charge-joins-the-wireless-charging-club-gets-its-own-indu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/droid-charge-joins-the-wireless-charging-club-gets-its-own-indu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/droid-charge-joins-the-wireless-charging-club-gets-its-own-indu/#comments
An HTC Thunderbolt wireless charging cover might still be a no-show on Verizon's site, but in the case of the Droid Charge, things are much simpler. Big Red quietly started selling a Qi-compliant inductive battery cover molded specifically for the LTE-equipped handset, allowing it to recharge when paired with any compatible charging pad. Verizon doesn't list specs, so it's unclear just how much heft that case will add to the phone's .46-inch frame. Still, if ditching your AC adapter is what you're after, you can hit the source link now and scoop one up for $29.99.

[Thanks, Kalyan]

Droid Charge joins the wireless charging club, gets its own inductive battery cover originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery coverBatteryCoverDroidDroid ChargeDroidChargeinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobilenow availableNowAvailableon sale nowOnSaleNowqiqi-compliantSamsungVerizonVerizon WirelessVerizonWirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingMon, 06 Jun 2011 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Power Matt joins the Wireless Power Consortium, gains the power of Qi]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/power-matt-joins-the-wireless-power-consortium-gains-the-power/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/power-matt-joins-the-wireless-power-consortium-gains-the-power/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/power-matt-joins-the-wireless-power-consortium-gains-the-power/#comments Powermat's Power Matt proclaimed his cord-cutting capabilities to the people while bearing a striking resemblance to Superman. And now, just as the Kryptonian joined the Justice League, Power Matt has teamed up with the Wireless Power Consortium to benefit all mankind -- or at least get us closer to universal contactless chargers. With the pun-loving hero embracing the power of Qi, we're just a Touchstone away from induction charging nirvana... and the next great action flick, too.

Power Matt joins the Wireless Power Consortium, gains the power of Qi originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 May 2011 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerchargingcontactlessecoupledinduction chargingInductionCharginginductive chargingInductiveChargingpowerpower mattpower transmissionpowermatPowerMattPowerTransmissionqiwireless chargingwireless powerwireless power consortiumWirelessChargingWirelessPowerWirelessPowerConsortiumSat, 14 May 2011 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Thunderbolt inductive charging back hits FCC, makes life with LTE a little easier]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-hits-fcc-makes-life-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-hits-fcc-makes-life-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-hits-fcc-makes-life-wit/#comments HTC Thunderbold inductive charging backThat inductive-charging backplate for the HTC Thunderbolt just hit the FCC, which means keeping the battery-devouring device juiced is about to get a little less inconvenient. Instead of having to plug in three times a day just to keep that LTE radio happy you'll simply be able to rest it on a charging mat... three times a day. The part made a brief appearance in the Verizon shop for $39, but the rumored April release date came and went without so much as a peep from Big Red. While we still can't say for sure when it will land, at least we know it's coming sooner rather than later -- and we've got one less reason to reconsider that pocket-busting extended battery.

HTC Thunderbolt inductive charging back hits FCC, makes life with LTE a little easier originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 May 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gaccessorybatterychargerchargingFCChtchtc thunderboltHtcThunderboltinductioninduction chargingInductionCharginginductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingLTEqithunderboltverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwwirelesswireless chargerwireless chargingwireless charging padWirelessChargerWirelessChargingWirelessChargingPadSat, 14 May 2011 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Droid Charge to revive its battery via induction, completes Verizon's Qi-based trifecta]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/droid-charge-to-revive-its-battery-via-induction-completes-veri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/droid-charge-to-revive-its-battery-via-induction-completes-veri/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/droid-charge-to-revive-its-battery-via-induction-completes-veri/#comments After many unexplained delays, Verizon's Droid Charge has coaxed many anxious consumers toward the edge of their seats, but we've now uncovered a tidbit that's sure to drive these folks up the wall -- an FCC document confirms this elusive Droid supports inductive charging. Just like the Thunderbolt and Revolution, the Charge uses Qi-based technology to accomplish this wizardry, which combines an optional back plate that pairs nicely with Big Red's forthcoming charging pad. As for the launch of the phone, we've stopped holding our breath. Many local Verizon resellers report the handset is in stock, however the carrier seems content in toying with the hearts of its devotees. Jump the break for a quick peek at the FCC label, which admittedly is rather bland... although it delivers the proof we all desire.

Continue reading Droid Charge to revive its battery via induction, completes Verizon's Qi-based trifecta

Droid Charge to revive its battery via induction, completes Verizon's Qi-based trifecta originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 May 2011 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4GaccessoryAMOLEDAndroidAndroid 2.2Android2.2cellphoneChargechargerchargingdelayDroidDroid ChargeDroidChargeecoupledfultonfulton innovationFultonInnovationhtchtc thunderboltHtcThunderboltinductiveinductive chargingInductiveCharginglglg revolutionLgRevolutionmobilemobile phoneMobilePhoneperipheralphoneqirevolutionsamsungsmartphoneTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentsthunderbolttiUSverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWCP-700wirelesswireless chargerwireless chargingwireless charging padWirelessChargerWirelessChargingWirelessChargingPadTue, 10 May 2011 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Power Matt, Powermat's new pun-based superhero ready to answer your tech questions (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/meet-power-matt-powermats-new-pun-based-superhero-ready-to-ans/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/meet-power-matt-powermats-new-pun-based-superhero-ready-to-ans/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/meet-power-matt-powermats-new-pun-based-superhero-ready-to-ans/#comments
The biggest problem with modern society? A lack of good super villains. Seriously, today's superheroes are getting flabby from sitting around, twiddling their powerful thumbs. Look at poor Power Matt here -- dude's clearly been working out and doing his shopping at the Justice League department store. So what is he doing with his time? Foiling bank heists or intercepting speeding missiles? Nope. He's Powermat's new mascot, and he's fielding questions about the inductive charging pad on the company's Twitter account. Can someone please help the poor redheaded hero out and kidnap a world leader or something? Or at least steal their microUSB cable?

Update: Ah, so according to reader Virginia Comicon, turns out this image is, ahem, inspired by the cover of Superman issue 233. Check out the comparison after the break.

Continue reading Meet Power Matt, Powermat's new pun-based superhero ready to answer your tech questions (updated)

Meet Power Matt, Powermat's new pun-based superhero ready to answer your tech questions (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargingcomic bookComicBookheroesiconinductioninduction chargingInductionCharginginductive chargingInductiveChargingmascotmattpower mattpowermatPowerMattsuperheroestwitterWed, 27 Apr 2011 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC Thunderbolt inductive charging back appears in Verizon online store, sort of]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-appears-in-online-verizo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-appears-in-online-verizo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/25/htc-thunderbolt-inductive-charging-back-appears-in-online-verizo/#comments
While not a complete mess in terms to battery life, Verizon's HTC Thunderbolt certainly doesn't win any awards in the longetivity department. As we'd mentioned a while back, help is near with at least a simpler charging experience courtesy of a Qi-compatible inductive back for this already chubby device. To add a bit of intrigue to that story, the Verizon store link recently changed -- with the pic and $39 price tag being stripped out -- and we're seeing a part now named "ThunderBolttrade Inductive Battery Cover." Of course, our whirling, cell-addicted minds may simply be reading something where nothing exists, but we're feeling it's at least remotely possible that this inductive back may become some sort of trade-in dealio. So tell us, if this turns out to be rooted more in fact than in fiction, would a trade-in program lure you toward the dark magic of inductive charging or are you happy with that little plug you're using now?

HTC Thunderbolt inductive charging back appears in Verizon online store, sort of originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryextended batteryExtendedBatteryhtc thunderboltHtcThunderboltinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingmobileqithunderbolt batterythunderbolt battery lifeThunderboltBatteryThunderboltBatteryLifeverizon thunderboltVerizonThunderboltMon, 25 Apr 2011 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/bmw-and-siemens-partnering-for-wireless-charging-evs-cutting-th/#commentsBMW and Siemens partnering for inductive charging EV trial, cutting the cord this may Back at CES we were dazzled by Fulton Innovation's vision of the future of wireless power, which included an inductively-charged Tesla Roadster. Now, someone's actually making it a reality. Siemens and BMW are partnering on a field trial for inductive chargers, with the device itself making its debut in May ahead of it being deployed in Berlin in June. In theory these can be installed into parking lots, taxi queues, and of course driveways, sunk right into the ground -- out of sight and mind. Neither company is saying which prototype car will be given the ability to catch the waves that these inductive chargesters will be throwing out, but we'd hazard a guess it'll be one of BMW's new i cars, which won't look nearly as futuristic as the invisible wheels above that look to have escaped from the Wonder Woman set.

[Thanks, Jason]

Continue reading BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May

BMW and Siemens partnering for wireless-charging EVs, cutting the cord this May originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berlinbmwgermanyiinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingsiemeswirelesswireless chargingWirelessChargingThu, 14 Apr 2011 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Mobee's Magic Bar brings inductive charging to your Apple bluetooth keyboard and Magic Trackpad]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/mobees-magic-bar-brings-inductive-charging-to-your-apple-blueto/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/mobees-magic-bar-brings-inductive-charging-to-your-apple-blueto/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/mobees-magic-bar-brings-inductive-charging-to-your-apple-blueto/#comments The wise folks who brought us the inductive Magic Charger for the Magic Mouse are now back with a new trick up their sleeves. This time we have the Mobee Magic Bar, which can energise either an Apple Wireless Keyboard or a Magic Trackpad thanks to their identical dual AA battery compartment. To get some wireless charging action, simply install the supplied battery cylinder to either device (presumably extra cylinders will also be available for purchasing), and then slide the protruding part into the charging dock. Of course, the nature of this setup limits the number of compatible devices (unlike the flat Magic Charger), but this is still more convenient than unscrewing the lid every time you run out of juice. If this Magic Bar tickles your fancy, you can pick one up around end of June for $59.90 -- pre-order starts on May 15th.

Continue reading Mobee's Magic Bar brings inductive charging to your Apple bluetooth keyboard and Magic Trackpad

Mobee's Magic Bar brings inductive charging to your Apple bluetooth keyboard and Magic Trackpad originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 01:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleapple magic trackpadApple Wireless KeyboardAppleMagicTrackpadAppleWirelessKeyboardbatterybluetooth keyboardBluetoothKeyboardinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingkeyboardMagic TrackpadMagicTrackpadMobeerechargerechargeabletrackpadwireless chargingwireless keyboardwireless rechargeWirelessChargingWirelessKeyboardWirelessRechargeTue, 12 Apr 2011 01:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/google-hq-gets-juiced-with-plugless-power-ev-charging-unit/#comments
We've seen it adorned with a giant Honeycomb and an oversized Gingerbread man, and now Google's bringing a more practical addition to its Mountain View campus -- specifically, a Plugless Power EV charging station. Its maker touts the installation as "the first public release" of the handsfree re-juicing system, and says it will eventually provided power to a fleet of low-speed EVs already in use at El Goog HQ -- the first of which has already been retrofitted to get pumped up. Who knows, maybe now we'll see something come of Google's claims to make electrical vehicles charge more efficiently. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit

Google HQ gets juiced with Plugless Power EV charging unit originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batterycampuscarcar chargerCarChargercarschargerchargingcharging stationcharging stationsChargingStationChargingStationselectricelectric vehicleelectric vehicle chargingelectric vehicle charging stationsElectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehicleChargingElectricVehicleChargingStationsElectricVehiclesEVgooglegoogle campusGoogleCampusinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingplugless powerPluglessPowerproximityproximity chargerProximityChargervehiclewirelesswireless inductionwireless powerWirelessInductionWirelessPowerWed, 23 Mar 2011 18:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Energizer makes single-device Inductive charger for singles looking to wirelessly mingle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/energizer-makes-single-device-inductive-charger-for-singles-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/energizer-makes-single-device-inductive-charger-for-singles-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/energizer-makes-single-device-inductive-charger-for-singles-look/#commentsEnergizer makes single-device Inductive charger, for singles looking to wirelessly mingle Standardized inductive charging with the Qi standard is a beautiful thing, but previously Energizer's only charging pad had room for not one but two devices. If your independently-minded smartphone just still isn't ready for that kind of commitment, the pink bunny has you covered with a new single-pad Inductive charger. Like before it supports the Qi standard and offers compatibility with a variety of devices -- if you don't mind using a variety of goofy sheaths and backpacks. No word on price or availability, but really it shouldn't take long to get this to stores.

Energizer makes single-device Inductive charger for singles looking to wirelessly mingle originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charging padChargingPadenergizerinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingqiwireless chargingWirelessChargingTue, 22 Mar 2011 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[LG gets official with WCP-700 Wireless Charging Pad, fails to provide pricing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/lg-gets-official-with-wcp-700-wireless-charging-pad-fails-to-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/lg-gets-official-with-wcp-700-wireless-charging-pad-fails-to-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/22/lg-gets-official-with-wcp-700-wireless-charging-pad-fails-to-pr/#comments So, there's good news and bad. Naturally, we're going to start with the former. A month after we spotted this character sneaking around at Mobile World Congress, LG has finally taken the (official) wraps off of its incoming WCP-700 Wireless Charging Pad. It's a pretty familiar design -- a slim (6.29- x 3.54- x 0.39-inch) inductive charging pad with a battery of LEDs to let you know the current status of things. We're guessing this guy is designed to work initially with the Verizon-bound Revolution, but given that LG makes no mention of what phones / cases will eventually be compatible, it'll have to remain just that for now. As for the bad news? Well, aside from not knowing what exactly this unit is for (in terms of compatibility), we're also left in the dark when it comes to pricing and a ship date. But hey, at least we've got a trio of high resolution images to gawk at.

Update: Fulton Innovation has just confirmed that LG is using its Qi-compliant eCoupled technology for the charging pad.

Gallery: LG gets official with WCP-700 Wireless Charging Pad

Continue reading LG gets official with WCP-700 Wireless Charging Pad, fails to provide pricing

LG gets official with WCP-700 Wireless Charging Pad, fails to provide pricing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorychargechargerchargingctiactia 2011ctia wireless 2011Ctia2011CtiaWireless2011ecoupledFultonfulton innovationFultonInnovationinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingLGlg revolutionLgRevolutionlteperipheralqirevolutionverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessWCP-700wireless chargingWireless Charging PadWirelessChargingWirelessChargingPadTue, 22 Mar 2011 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon and HTC offer Thunderbolt extended battery, give your phone dumps like a truck]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/verizon-and-htc-offer-thunderbolt-extended-battery-give-your-ph/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/verizon-and-htc-offer-thunderbolt-extended-battery-give-your-ph/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/21/verizon-and-htc-offer-thunderbolt-extended-battery-give-your-ph/#comments Though never confirmed by Verizon, it seems likely that battery life (or more accurately, the lack thereof) played a part in the series of delays preceding the Thunderbolt's launch. To combat this problem, Big Red and HTC are offering a rather unsightly extended battery pack that nearly doubles the handset's capacity from 1400mAh to 2750mAh. All that extra juice will certainly come in handy for folks leaning heavily on the phone's LTE radio. However, the device costs $50 and adds an ounce of junk in the trunk -- on a device that isn't svelte to begin with -- so why not buy another standard battery for ten bucks less instead? Then you can use the Qi-compatible back and induction charging station Verizon's releasing in April -- both are pictured after the break. It's just under $100 ($29 for the back and $69 for the pad) for those who want to cut the cord and don't mind the expanded waistline we assume comes with the privilege.

Continue reading Verizon and HTC offer Thunderbolt extended battery, give your phone dumps like a truck

Verizon and HTC offer Thunderbolt extended battery, give your phone dumps like a truck originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gaccessorybatterybattery lifeBatteryLifechargerchargingextended batteryExtendedBatteryhtchtc thunderbolthtc+thunderbolt+extended+batteryHtcThunderbolthtcthunderboltextendedbatteryinductioninduction chargingInductionCharginginductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingLGLG WCP-700LgWcp-700LTEqithunderboltverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWCP-700wireles chargingWirelesChargingwirelesswireless chargerwireless charging padWirelessChargerWirelessChargingPadMon, 21 Mar 2011 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[LG Revolution gets Fulton inductive charging back, HTC and Samsung handsets joining the party soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/lg-revolution-gets-fulton-inductive-charging-back-htc-and-samsu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/lg-revolution-gets-fulton-inductive-charging-back-htc-and-samsu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/14/lg-revolution-gets-fulton-inductive-charging-back-htc-and-samsu/#comments We've just swooped our way through the Fulton Innovation stand here at MWC and found, sat next to the familiar light-up cereal box, a peculiar version of the Verizon LTE network-riding LG Revolution. Thicker than its CES-announced counterpart (by only 1.5mm, if the Fulton reps are to be believed), this Revolution features a Qi wireless charging-compatible back, which happens to go very nicely with a Verizon-branded inductive charging station. You can scope those out in the gallery below. We're told the back cover that makes this possible will be available as an accessory in the next 30 to 60 days, but the excitement for us was in hearing that Samsung also has an unannounced handset that will feature a similar add-on, which will be landing in the same timespan. While at the stand, we were also shown the back cover of an HTC Thunderbolt -- we weren't told the Thunderbolt will be making like the Revolution and getting its own chunky wireless charging adapter, but don't be surprised if it does.

Gallery: LG Revolution and Verizon inductive charger at MWC 2011

Continue reading LG Revolution gets Fulton inductive charging back, HTC and Samsung handsets joining the party soon

LG Revolution gets Fulton inductive charging back, HTC and Samsung handsets joining the party soon originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorychargerchargingfultonfulton innovationFultonInnovationhands-onhtchtc thunderboltHtcThunderboltinductiveinductive chargingInductiveCharginglglg revolutionLG WCP-700LgRevolutionLgWcp-700mwcmwc 2011Mwc2011peripheralqirevolutionsamsungtexas instrumentsTexasInstrumentsthunderboltverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWCP-700wirelesswireless chargerwireless chargingwireless charging padWirelessChargerWirelessChargingWirelessChargingPadwpcMon, 14 Feb 2011 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Fulton Innovation blows our minds with eCoupled wireless Tesla, inductive cereal boxes (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/fulton-innovation-blows-our-minds-with-ecoupled-wireless-tesla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/fulton-innovation-blows-our-minds-with-ecoupled-wireless-tesla/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/fulton-innovation-blows-our-minds-with-ecoupled-wireless-tesla/#commentsFulton Innovation blows our minds with eCoupled wireless Tesla, inductive cereal boxes (video) Wondering what your future kitchen looks like? Take a gander at what Fulton Innovation is showing at CES this year. They're also giving a peek at the future of retail shopping, and even parking lots. It's all the magic of inductive charging, and now that the Qi standard has been finalized it seems like things are coming together. Really together, in everything from cereal boxes with blinkenlights to Tesla Roadsters that charge almost as quickly as with a wire but, quite obviously, without the wire. Would you like to know more? Click on through.

Gallery: Fulton Innovation at CES

Continue reading Fulton Innovation blows our minds with eCoupled wireless Tesla, inductive cereal boxes (video)

Fulton Innovation blows our minds with eCoupled wireless Tesla, inductive cereal boxes (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 20:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2011ces2011featurefeaturedfeaturesfulton innovationFultonInnovationgrocery storeGroceryStoreinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingqiqi standardQiStandardteslatesla roadsterTeslaRoadstervideowireless chargingWirelessChargingThu, 06 Jan 2011 20:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Energizer rolls into CES with new power packs, inductive chargers, solar products, and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/energizer-rolls-into-ces-with-new-power-packs-inductive-charger/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/energizer-rolls-into-ces-with-new-power-packs-inductive-charger/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/energizer-rolls-into-ces-with-new-power-packs-inductive-charger/#comments
We've seen a handful of new Energizer cases and charges crop up over the past few months, but the company's turned up at CES with those and a ton more, and we got up close with their complete lineup. That includes the AP1204 iPhone battery case, the AP750 EnergiStick backup battery for any microUSB-equipped phone (pictured above), the Energi To Go SP1001 solar charges for smartphones and mobile devices, a whole range of solar / crank-powered flashlights, and its Qi inductive charger complete with cases for the iPhone 4 and a replacement cover for the BlackBerry Curve 8900, among a host of other poewr-related products. Head on past the break for the complete press release, and hit up the gallery below for a look at the entire lineup.

Gallery: Energizer at CES 2011

Continue reading Energizer rolls into CES with new power packs, inductive chargers, solar products, and more

Energizer rolls into CES with new power packs, inductive chargers, solar products, and more originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AP1204AP750cesces 2011ces2011chargerEnergi To GoEnergiStickEnergiToGoenergizerhands-oninductiveinductive chargerinductive chargingInductiveChargerInductiveChargingSP1001Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:48:00 EST<![CDATA[GM invests $5 million in Powermat, says wireless charging headed to Volt in 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/gm-invests-5-million-in-powermat-says-wireless-charging-headed/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/gm-invests-5-million-in-powermat-says-wireless-charging-headed/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/gm-invests-5-million-in-powermat-says-wireless-charging-headed/#comments GM may have filed for bankruptcy back in 2009, but a lot has changed since then. GM's venture branch now apparently has enough cash in the bank to drop five million on a multi-year commercial deal for Powermat's wireless charging technology. The terms of the deal give GM the option to convert their investment into an equity stake within the first six months and provide GM exclusive use of Powermat's technology for one year in vehicles worldwide. Subsequently, the Volt is slotted to be one of the first vehicles receiving the new tech and a prototype version with charging mats in the front consoles and back seat will be shown this year at CES. However, the automaker is unsure as to what other models will receive Powermat upgrades. Micky Bly, leader of GM's electric car development efforts, stated though that initial tests did not reveal any significant issues with porting the technology into vehicles, leading GM to shoot for launching commercial integrations sometime in 2012. The automaker hasn't forgotten its an investor however and hopes other manufacturers will join the wireless charging bandwagon to help drive down costs after their exclusive buffer ends.

GM invests $5 million in Powermat, says wireless charging headed to Volt in 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 02:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsces2011chevroletchevy voltChevyVoltgmgm venturesGmVenturesinductive chargingInductiveChargingInvestmentinvestmentspowermatwireless chargingwireless charging automotivewireless charging padWirelessChargingWirelessChargingAutomotiveWirelessChargingPadThu, 06 Jan 2011 02:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/27/sonic-the-hedgehog-will-charge-your-wiimote-inductively-but-he/#commentsSonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it He may be flashing a peace sign, but you can tell from the look in his eyes that Sonic isn't exactly thrilled to be doing anything to support Nintendo. This is the cat that made blast processing a reality, whose addiction for gold rings is legendary, and who hasn't starred in a truly great game since, well, since Sega stopped making hardware, now reduced to this. Look at him, perched atop a mock floating platform, brown and tan checkerboard base with a green top where you can set your Wiimotes for charging without stripping them of their prophylactics. Though the press release makes no mention of this, we were led to believe that this is not actually powered by your AC outlet, instead by the spirits of fuzzy little squirrels and rabbits trapped within, making this $49.99 figurine from Mad Catz all the more nefarious.

Sonic the Hedgehog will charge your Wiimote inductively, but he won't like it originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargercontrollerinductiveinductive chargingInductiveChargingmad catzMadCatznintendosonicsonic the hedgehogSonicTheHedgehogwiiwiimoteMon, 27 Dec 2010 13:20:00 EST