02.12.09 -- 9 a.m.
The iPhone's battery just isn't all it's cracked up to be. And there have been several external battery packs to attempt to make things right.
Now, there's a new player on the field -- the all-new Mophie juice pack air from mStation, coming in the spring.
According to the Web site, the juice pack air is a rechargeable external battery concealed inside of a protective form-fitting case for the iPhone 3G.
You can pre-order it at the site now for $79.95 in one of three colors: black, white and purple.
What you get for that $79.95 is a hard-shell case that provides about twice the battery life of the iPhone by itself. And compared to a number that I've seen, this model looks pretty thin and lightweight. mStation says it's the world's thinnest Apple certified “Works With iPhone” external battery available.
Other features include:
* Pass-through USB charging and sync with iTunes
* Extended smart battery and full case protection
* On/Off switch offers choice of battery or case
* Integrated 4 LED charge status indicator
I'm torn. I like this idea. However, knowing that a new iPhone is likely sometime this summer, I'm trying to decide if I want to push the button and go for this type of case or wait until 3.0 and a model to match. Either way, this looks like a good deal. Folks I know with products like these from mStation are pretty happy with their purchases.
Let me know what you think either here in the comments or join the conversation on Twitter.
Thanks for calling.
3 Comments
Dawson said:
The next iPhone will have the same form factor and probably the same underpowered battery life. 3G is the culpret that wont change anytime soon. So I think it is time to purchase an external battery. I am making it about 12 hours on the current battery during the week. 24 hours would be welcome.
SCOTT'S REPLY: I agree with most of that, however, I've seen what Apple can do - or at least claims to be able to do -- with battery technology. I'm talking about the new 17" MacBook Pro. However, you are right. 3G is a battery suck and that's not going to change, unless Apple's software finds a workaround. And you know what, I do think it's possible. Because believe me ... there's no one out there now praising Apple and even AT&T for that matter for stellar iPhone battery life. It should be better for what it is.
MacSheikh said:
Patience, dear Jedi. We have only four or five more months to go. :-D
SCOTT'S REPLY: Seems like a lifetime. I'm using the force, though.
melodiechia said:
my iPhone has a short battery lifespan. therefore with the new juice pack it will be much more convenient for me. however i would like to know if a juice pack is the same as a battery pack ?
SCOTT'S REPLY: Yep. They are the same. They add extra battery life to what you'd normally get.
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