Hasta La Ideas

Secret phone charger for the literary aficionado

The dummy book motif has appeared on accessories from handbags to desktop boxes, only partially satisfying true literary geeks because, after all, they’re only just replicating the covers. Book Chargers by Rich Neeley Designs, on the other hand, are made from actual vintage books outfitted with an impressively subtle power source for an iPhone or iPod. The USB-compatible hook-up tucks neatly behind the book’s binding, and the dock itself is discreet enough to go unnoticed at quick glance.

Neeley and his wife, Brenna, travel around Southern California on what they call “book hunting” excursions. They’ve picked up tomes like a 1977 edition of “Alice in Wonderland”, a manual called “Modern Dentistry” dating back to 1975, and a cloth-bound copy of Louisa May Alcott’s “Eight Cousins” from 1914 for the antique bases they then refurbish to keep your modern technology fully juiced. The selection of books also includes contemporary releases bound in throwback past-edition covers, with titles spanning “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, “Huckleberry Finn” and more.

Rich Neeley Book Chargers sell through the designer’s Etsy shop, with prices ranging from $48-$55 per book.

Sleek satchels that pack some serious power

Fit for arduous travel schedules and lengthy commutes, the recently released luggage line from Powerbag features an on-board charging system to keep you on the grid no matter how far from an outlet you may be. Each bag’s removable and rechargeable power source comes equipped with an Apple device connector, Mini and Mico-USB cords, and a standard USB port, putting out enough power for up to four devices at once. Most importantly, the smart charge system diverts power to the devices that need it most, preventing your tablet from hoarding all the juice.

On the outside of each bag you’ll find a small button that illuminates to display the current battery level of the internal power source. The bag’s deliberately subtle design—charging level is momentarily displayed at a touch of the adjacent button—allows you to safely carry expensive electronics without drawing attention.

The Business Class Pack is a basic backpack with all the highlights hidden on the inside. We love the the number of compartments and velour-lined pockets, preventing your gear from getting all scratched up. Its most notable claim is a “checkpoint-friendly” zipper that opens to lie the bag flat so you don’t have to remove your laptop from the rear compartment for airport security screenings. Life changing.

Much like its over-the-shoulder brother, the Instant Messenger bag is defined by its subdued design and tech-driven inner workings. With a padded laptop sleeve and numerous zippered pockets, this sling bag has more than enough room for long-distance travel or the everyday commute.

Outfitted with a removable 6000mAh battery, the bags offer enough juice to fully charge an average smartphone up to four times before the power supply needs to be refilled. Both packs feature a small AC adapter plug on the outside that connects to any wall outlet for easy recharging. The Business Class Pack and the Instant Messenger bag sell for $180 each directly from Powerbag online. Other styles are also available, and smaller chargers are available at a lower cost.

The slimmest iPhone case and charger combo on the market offers more than just power

Released today, the Third Rail iPhone 4 case from Third Rail Mobility takes a fresh look at the issue of smartphone battery life. The case is designed to be as compact and dynamic as possible, the only additional real estate present in comparison to a traditional case is a small nub of circuitry on the docking end of the phone. This smart circuitry, combined with their smart batteries offer a superior level of control and customization when it comes to mobile charging.

Unlike most case/charger combos the Third Rail system does not incorporate a built-in battery. Instead, the ultra slim case has a dock on the back where the user can swap super light weight batteries—only 1.4 ounces—in and out, or stack a number of batteries for as much charge as is desired, allowing for the case to always remain on the phone. If you have multiple batteries attached, the intelligent charging system can determine which has the most charge and will transfer power from other batteries to the one it determines to be a primary battery, always guaranteeing you have one fully charged brick. Additionally if you have several batteries attached you can plug the whole unit in and simultaneously charge all the batteries and your iPhone.

Since the batteries are swappable you never have to worry about the system becoming obsolete with each new smartphone purchase. The batteries will work with all cases offered by Third Rail, including future ones, to reduce waste and consumer cost. Each battery also contains its own built in micro USB port so it can directly charge any micro USB device independently or while strapped to your iPhone.

Third Rail Mobility, a family owned and operated business, has created a very functional, forward-looking product with this new case. The system can be purchased from their site for $90 which includes an iPhone 4 case and one battery.