The UK's Battech recently introduced its iPower SX solar-powered charger that will add battery life to portable consumer electronics. It stores energy captured by the sun in a high-capacity, 2,200mAh battery and is said to be capable of powering an iPod classic for 50 hours. The device is capable of charging many popular phones, including the iPhone and Nokia devices, as well as portable gaming consoles, MP3 players and cameras.

A full charge from the rival Freeloader charger, for example, will provide an iPod Classic with 18 hours of battery life. The iPower SX should keep it running for 50 hours. Another one-up over the Freeloader is the iPower SX's inclusion of an indicator to show the battery level.


Like most solar chargers, this newbie works with phones including the iPhone and Nokias, plus handheld consoles, MP3 players and cameras. When the sun's not shining, you can use it as a backup battery by topping it up via a computer's USB port.

The iPower SX is on sale now for £40.