LG and Samsung Announce Solar-Charging Phones

February 16, 2009

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LG and Samsung are both launching cell phones with built-in solar panels for recharging the battery, PC World reports.

Samsung’s “Blue Earth” is meant to look like a “well-rounded pebble,” says the company. The phone is composed of recycled plastic, without harmful substances like brominated flame retardants (BFRs), Beryllium and phthalates.

Both models feature solar cells on the back of the phone. The panels are used to recharge the phone batteries, which also come with chargers. While these introductory models are prototypes, LG says it plans on marketing a future model that will get 3 minutes of talk time after a 10 minute solar charge.

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Reader Comments

The move to using solar power for charging PDAs and mobile phones is one that has been gainging a lot of market traction of late. There are numerous reasonably priced solar-powered charging accessories from backpacks, covers, to detached solar pads. Taking the extra step to integrate solar power at the device level looks to be a good move.

One does have to wonder about security. Will people just leave their phones out in the open exposed to sunlight and/or high-intensity indoor lighting?

Personally I’d rather keep my phone or pda in my pocket or bag where I know it is a little more secure. But I wouldn’t be adverse to purchasing a device with a built-in solar charger at the right price point.

Jack Pouchet | February 17th, 2009

At last! Why has it taken these companies so long? These will be great if you’re out in the garden or by the beach.

solar power diy | February 19th, 2009

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