Fuel Cell-Powered Cell Phone Coming Soon
Toshiba demonstrated its upcoming fuel cell-powered cell phone recently at the CEATEC Japan 2008 conference. The phone will use methanol fuel cells that charge with a dedicated cartridge. Apparently, the use of fuel cells combined with secondary batteries will make the overall battery life approximately double what it would be with a secondary battery alone.
The methanol cartridge can store 50 ml of 99.5% methanol, which can charge the cell phone ten times. Eventually, Toshiba hopes that the fuel cell will cost only ¥100, or $0.94. As for the cell phone’s availability, the company is being vague. Toshiba has hinted that it might be released next year, but offers no promises.
The company doesn’t plan on limiting fuel cells to phones— methanol cartridges will ultimately be incorporated into digital cameras, laptops, and other electronic devices.
Via TechOn
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2 Comments, Comment or Ping
Dan
I would be slightly worried about a flammable liquid packaged closely with electronic circuits (even if they are a pretty low current) being right next to my head. What can happen if it is dropped. Perhaps I am just being paranoid.
Oct 2nd, 2008
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“Fuel Cell-Powered Cell Phone Coming Soon”