We’ve all experienced that sinking feeling: being stranded in an awkward situation and your phone battery is completely depleted, with no power point in sight. That worst-case scenario in an increasingly connected world has given rise to "nomophobia" – the fear of being out of mobile phone contact. Though unhealthy, it’s the nature of work, and these new and innovative wireless chargers will come in handy in averting that nightmare.
Lifetrons Digtal Power Charger
In typical Swiss style, this charger is neat, minimalist and practical, complete with a digital display indicating the power levels of your gadget’s battery. The charger can be used for up to two devices at a time and is compatible with iPhones, iPods, iPads, Blackberry, HTC, Sony Ericsson and several other mobile brands.
Price: €152/US$196
Availability: The website claims Lifetrons products are available “in major duty-free shops, luxury stores and in-flight on many major airlines” around the world.
Powermat
This sleek gadget, in partnership with Duracell, can charge up to three devices at a time. Once the Powermat has been charged, you can take it with you and charge devices by simply placing them on the mat. For iPhones, users will need to use a wireless case before placing the phone on the mat.
What’s more, in several locations around North America, Powermat and Duracell have created hot spots for users to recharge their phone alongside a dedicated app to locate the nearest Powermat hot spot.
Price:
- 1x mat for Blackberry HK$998/US$35
- 2x mat with powercube US$50
Availability: Currently only available in the US but can be ordered online.
Stone Battery
The beautifully designed, pocket-sized charger will charge devices without damaging your battery (due to overcharging) as it will automatically switch off when your gadget’s battery reaches 100 per cent, with an LED light to indicate when the job’s done. Furthermore, once the Stone Battery has been charged for three hours, it stays fully charged for an entire year and will only need to be recharged until you use all the stored energy. It is compatible with all devices that can be charged through a USB connection.
Price: US$34.95
Availability: The product is available in select stores around the world. Within the region, certain retail outlets in Japan, India, Hong Kong and Australia have the product. Click here for the list of distributors.
Sunlinq 
This device is literally just a portable solar panel that is light and compact enough to carry around, the smallest one measuring just 9inches by 5inches when folded up. The product is compatible with any device that can be charged via a USB connection. The larger versions can even be used to charge laptops.
Price: Varies depending on size.
Availability: The product is available in specific stores in Tokyo, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and New Delhi. For details, click here.
Torus Solar backpack
Samsonite recently unveiled a newly designed Torus backpack that now consists of solar panels enabling users to charge devices while on the move. The solar panel is encased within a detachable pouch that can be connected to the bag’s external battery with the cables provided. The external battery can then be connected to mobile gadgets. The solar panel simply needs to be under the sun for between three to four hours before it can recharge mobile devices.
Price: S$380/US$301
Availability: At its outlets around the world, including its duty free retail spaces at airports.
Alisha Haridasani
