If there’s one consistent complaint with Android phones, tablets, and other smart devices it’s that they can do TOO much. Which leads to the problem at hand: quickly dead batteries. There are plenty of companies offering extended batteries, backup batteries, and even unique offerings like the PowerBag, but I have yet to see something like this:
“This” is Nectar Mobile Power, a unique battery backup that isn’t replenished by plugging into the wall, but instead with Isobutane Fuel Cell Cartridges. They’re full of liquid which make it somewhat of a surreal experience when you’re wondering how much juice your backup has left: simply shake the cartridge… the percent of battery juice left in the cartridge is directly proportional to the amount of liquid left.
Nectar is a product of Lilliputian Systems who have partnered with Brookstone for the launch. They’re not available at this moment, but you can currently pre-order the battery backup system for $299- each cartridge will run you an additional $10 bucks.
In terms of functionality and ease of use it couldn’t be simpler. The unit has a USB port- simply use that port to connect to the device you’d like to charge and bada boom, bada bing, it begins charging. A button just to the side of the cartridge will eject it and inserting a new one is just as easy.
I can see an outrageous number of people finding the nectar beyond useful, so long as it performs as well as they claim. Going on a hike or camping? Good to go. Want an emergency stash of battery juice in your car just in case? Boom, now you ‘ve got enough battery for you and 5 friends to last for days.
The whole “flammable” warning on the cartridge made me a bit nervous, but the Nectar is cleared for taking on airplanes, so you’ve got to figure it’s pretty darn safe. I’m trying to think of reasons NOT to like the Nectar, but I’m having a bit of trouble. The lone point of contention is the “green energy” debate and with cartridges you throw away that use fuel, I’m assuming a fair share of earth lovers won’t buy an emergency stash to carry in their Prius.
Want to get in on the action? Supposedly, CES attendees can visit Brookstone.com/nectar for a limited time to pre-order the device, but we were met with an error when loading. Either way, we’re excited to see this get to market and read the reviews that will inevitably pour in.