Duracell Debuts MyGrid USB Charging Solution

Wireless charging still has some ways to go before it's truly useful across a broad spectrum of devices. Right now, wireless charging is usually limited to a small pad for charging up phones, and even then you need an accessory case to make the phone compatible. Until wireless charging modules are actually built into phones (the Palm Touchstone was definitely a good effort), it's hard to see this technology truly going mainstream.


But here's something that every gizmo owner has: a device that charges via USB. Whether it's a smartphone, a GPS system or a media player, USB is the de facto charging protocol used on personal gadgets this day and age. Now, Duracell is blending the convenience of wireless charging with the portability of USB in the MyGrid USB charger. This new device is designed to work with the MyGrid wireless charging mat that was introduced last year, and it's basically a battery pack that you can recharge by simply laying on the mat. Once it's charged, you can power your handheld devices via the included microUSB and miniUSB cables.

Duracell claims that this unit can provide at least four hours on smart phones such as the iPhone and latest BlackBerry models, at least 100 hours of reading on e-readers such as the Kindle, at least 30 hours on MP3 players, and at least 10 hours on Bluetooth headsets. It's available now for $34.99, but the charging mat itself has to be purchased separately.

Duracell Expands Smart Power Portfolio With Wireless USB Charger
 
Compatible with Duracell's award-winning myGrid charging pad, the myGrid USB Charger can charge hundreds of devices anywhere at anytime

BETHEL, Conn., Nov. 9, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Duracell has strengthened its commitment to provide power to consumers wherever and whenever they need it with the introduction of the Duracell myGrid USB Charger. The newest addition to its Smart Power portfolio, the Duracell myGrid USB Charger is a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery that gives users the freedom to stay connected to devices they value most without the hassle of searching for an outlet. Electronic devices are an integral part of today's mobile and modern lifestyle and Duracell Smart Power continues to offer reliable solutions to keep them powered.

The Duracell myGrid USB Charger is compatible with hundreds of popular devices such as smart phones, e-readers, MP3 players, portable gaming devices, GPS units, Bluetooth® headsets, and virtually anything else that can be connected with a USB cable. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel and convenient to have on-hand as an everyday accessory for reliable extra power. Recharging the Duracell myGrid USB Charger is simple as it is compatible with the Duracell myGrid charging pad, which has been recognized by PC World and US Airways magazine as a top product of 2009. Users simply drop the Duracell myGrid USB Charger onto the myGrid and go, or it can be charged through its USB input.

"The mobile lifestyle isn't just about cell phones. From iPhones, GPS systems or portable games like the Nintendo DS series, consumers rely on a number of devices to stay connected, entertained and informed," said Bob Jacobs, Duracell marketing director, North America. "Duracell, through our Smart Power portfolio of products, is dedicated to providing consumers with the power solutions they need. USB Charger is a great example of this vision that gives you freedom to use your devices when away from the power grid."

The Duracell myGrid USB Charger provides extra power for more use-time on popular devices. For example, the Duracell myGrid USB Charger can provide at least four hours on smart phones such as the iPhone and latest BlackBerry® models, at least 100 hours of reading on e-readers such as the KindleTM, at least 30 hours on MP3 players, and at least 10 hours on Bluetooth headsets. The Duracell myGrid USB Charger is available at select CVS, Target and Walmart stores and in time for the holidays at Amazon.com and Drugstore.com for an MSRP of $34.99.