When the Pre launched, there was a lot of buzz about the goodies users could expect, including WebOS, multitasking, integrated messaging, etc, etc. Amidst all of that, there was something that may have gotten a little bit of play, but IMHO not nearly enough: Touchstone.
I admit it — I drooled. Wireless charging was one of those things I didn’t know I wanted until I saw it. But sadly, as an iPhone user, it was beyond my reach.
Well, that was then.
This month, iPhone users were bestowed with wireless charging magic, courtesy of WildCharge. The system works like this: The user puts an adapter skin on the phone, plugs in the charging mat and places the handset on the mat. WildCharge works when the nubs on skin’s back connect anywhere on the flat conductive strips on the mat. So just put it on there and you're good to go.
The peeps over at iPhoneBuzz got their hands on this and are working on a review. We're working on doing the same. From the looks of it, though, WildCharge seems like a shoe-in for people who favor simplicity over looks. The product itself isn’t exactly stylish (though people who dig lots of shiny metal might be okay with it). And at $79.99, the bundled price for the skin and pad isn’t exactly cheap. (The Palm Touchstone combo is $50.) But it does offer convenient charging for all models of iPhones, without the fuss of sync cords or docks.
But iPhone isn’t the only handset that gets to enjoy wireless charge-ups. The WildCharge company already has solutions for BlackBerries, Motorolas and more, as well as Universal Adapters for nearly anything that powers via mini USB.
Not to be outdone, Duracell will be launching its own wireless charging solution in October. myGrid kits are compatible with Nokia, Motorola, and Blackberry phones, as well as iPhones and iPod Touches. It also includes a charger plus handset link (either power sleeve or clip, depending on phone).
Note the differences? If you said, “No,” you wouldn’t be alone. myGrid looks suspiciously like a WildCharge knock-off, but with the Duracell logo slapped on it. (WildCharge also offers clips in addition to sleeves.) There’s no word on price yet, so if you’re thinking of choosing a wireless charging solution, you may want to hold off. These seem like virtually the same product, so if time's not a factor, then you may want to see if you can nab the Duracell item for less.
[via PhoneMag, Engadget Mobile, iPhoneBuzz]
