We looked at the Powermat range of wireless charging systems last week, and they have kindly sent us an iPhone4 Wireless Charging System to try out.
The iPhone4 pack contains a case that slides onto the iPhone, a charging mat with power adapter, and a micro USB lead.
iTunes
Of course, wire-free is all well and good, but what if you need to sync your iPhone with iTunes? Powermat have thought of that, at the bottom of the case is a MicroUSB connector – use the supplied lead to connect the case to your computer and hey presto, the iPhone is recognised and iTunes pops up to sync – a really nice touch meaning you don’t even have to remove the case to sync your new music.
Application
The Powermat is convenient for someone like me, its a time saver. But there’s a group of people this technology can bring serious benefits to – those with disabilities.
Many people with partial sight use the iPhone, ergonomically its easy to unlock, and activating the voice command (long press on the home key) so they can make calls is relatively easy. But finding the charging lead and plugging it in can be a struggle, how much easier for them to simply drop it on its charging plate, hear the connected chirp and leave it safe in the knowledge that it’s charging.
My wife works with young adults with learning disabilities – this often comes with restricted co-ordination and reduced hand dexterity. Many of them have touchscreen phones because they are easier to use then ones with tiny buttons, and again many of them struggle to charge their device because picking up the charging lead and plugging it in can be very challenging. And its not just the physical difficulties that are made easier, the mental process involved in finding the right lead, holding it the right way and putting it in the right connector can be too much for many of these adolescents. Again, with a Powermat these problems are eliminated – just drop the phone on the charging mat and walk away.
This post was written by Rob Gordon, an IT geek, gadget lover and blogger. Rob has been using the internets since 1994 when the only streaming video was that coffee pot in Cambridge (rip)….
Follow Rob on Twitter – @robgordon – about.me/robgordonuk