Duracell Powermat – The Future of Charging Devices [Review]

In the world of technology nothing is advanced enough. Not only are the devices updated; but so are the peripherals. I remember when mobile phones were becoming the norm; the chargers were AC adaptors. No two phones had the same charger. With time came progression; thankfully. Phones first started using the mini USB; iPhones had their 30 pin connector. For the most part we can share chargers. It’s usually one out of the three previously mentioned. We are no longer forced to charge our phones on an outlet.

It would only make sense that the next step is to charge your phones wirelessly. Everything else is wireless; so why not? When I had the opportunity to review the Duracell Powermat I was excited to see how the technology works. While the technology isn’t new; it’s definitely more sophisticated. It’s basically what you see. You charge your devices by placing them on a charging mat. The system includes a case for the iPhone 4/4S (needed to charge the phone on the Powermat), the charger mat, and a portable battery (Lithium-ion 1850mAh). The look of the Powermat is nice. It gives your desk an advanced techy look (aluminum base with a glossy top). There are indicators on the mat that show you where to lay your phone to charge. The extra battery pack is always useful. These are becoming more and more popular.

Setup and Charging

The setup is simple; plug the power adapter into the Powermat, and place the phone on the indicators. The magnetic indicators help keep the phone in place when charging. When you place the phone on the mat; it gives off a somewhat loud notification. The Powermat is plain; it doesn’t have the USB port the original Powermat had. The only thing some might not like is the case for the iPhone. If you’re one of those people who need a tough protector case for your phone; you might not be satisfied with the Powermat case. It’s a simple case that doesn’t offer maximum protection. It’s a great alternative to a wall charger. If you can alternate the use of the charging surface (1 charging surface and 2 phones with power cases); it’s very convenient and a space saver. The extra battery is always a life saver. You can charge the battery on the Powermat, or through the microUSB port. It’s very lightweight and portable. With Duracell’s Smart Charging; the Powermat will stop the power flow once your phone is fully charged. Unfortunately; it doesn’t charge your phone faster than a regular wall charger.

Popularity and Future of Powermat Charging

The Duracell Powermat is catching on (in New York as well as other places). AT&T has begun selling the power cases and charging surfaces in select markets. Madison Square Garden and the new Barclay’s Center have begun installing them; as well as the popular 40/40 Club (Jay Z’s club). Stadiums aren’t the only venues adapting the Powermat change; Delta Airlines and Starbucks (in Boston) are adding the PMA technologies to their gates/lounges/stores. The Powermat can even be found in the 2013 Chevy Volt.

I love the idea of advancing the charging concept. The idea of wireless charging technology is picking up in the gadget world (think of the Nokia 920 which have the wireless charging option). If the Powermats get installed in Starbucks across the nation it would really boost the Powermat’s popularity. Sometimes people go into Starbucks looking for an outlet more than they are looking for a cup of coffee. Are people willing to buy a case with every mobile device they purchase? I think consumers will. I usually purchase two or more cases for my phone. If one of them was a power case that would be extremely beneficial. Giving your desk at work or home a nice futuristic (and clean) look is an added plus. You can’t compare a sleek-looking desktop charger to an old-school cable charger.