British firm Moixa are marketing a new concept in batteries, the USB cell. The concept is a simple one - no need for a charger, just plug these little wonders directly into an available USB socket on your games console or computer and let them re-charge. Once they're “cooked”, flip the caps back on and use them.
Not only in AA size, they already exist in 9V PP3 power pack size and are soon to be available in AAA size with a mini-USB connector. Not only that, but they are developing re-chargeable batteries for mobile phones so that you no longer have to remember to take a charger along with you on business trips or holidays.
The cost is a bit steep at £13 for two AA cells, but that is sure to come down once the concept catches on.
I think this product could well be a winner, but my ultimate dream of a radically longer battery life may still be some way away. As I have said before, a laptop battery lasting properly for 12 hours is my dream. I sit awake at night and dream of that. Oh yes - wouldn't that be great?
More battery news soon.
What an excellent idea! My life is almost complete.
Posted by: Mr .Mavin | September 21, 2006 at 07:40 AM
Once again Andy, you have brought us excellent and interesting battery related news. I like this idea very much, and feel sure that it will be a winner. What about developing batteries that have an exterior case of solar panels so that you can just leave them in the sun to recharge. Or batteries that somehow get recharged when pushed up a pet's bottom - or perhaps a battery that becomes fully charged when sworn at or kissed? Maybe it's worth putting research money into batteries that have a degree of charge directly related to how mugh they're loved and/or appreciated? The possibilities are endless.
Posted by: Jason | September 21, 2006 at 08:30 AM
Does it give info on the MaH
Posted by: John Cooper | September 21, 2006 at 09:49 AM
So was our recent excursion into the land of rechargeables a wasted one Andy?
Posted by: Tim the Enchanter | September 21, 2006 at 09:57 AM
Jason - Thanks for your handy and useful comments.
John - Sadly, no. I want to know too. Maybe you could email them if there is a link on the site?
Tim - No, not at all. Imagine having to find eight empty USB slots to take all your batteries.
Posted by: AndyC | September 21, 2006 at 04:45 PM