It’s usually a bad thing being stuck in the rain with a dying cellphone, but European networking giant Vodafone is offering a solution to portable phone charging with the Booster Brolly. Developed at the University College in London, the Booster Brolly is an umbrella that triples up as a charger and signal booster.
The brolly harnesses the power of the sun via solar panels within the canopy. The electrical components are housed in carbon-fibre, with a USB port located on the handle. The brolly is capable of fully charging most phones in less than 3 hours. Anyone using a cellphone underneath its canopy receives a 3G signal boost.
While the Booster Brolly is currently a concept slated for release in the UK, it could definitely be of use in North America, especially with all the outdoor concerts abuzz during the spring and summertime.
Implications - Charge your phone outside, no matter the weather, and look good while doing it.
Umbrella Phone Chargers
The Booster Brolly Will Juice Your Phone, Rain or Shine
Trend Themes
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Portable Solar-powered Chargers — Companies can explore creating portable chargers that are powered by sustainable energy sources like the sun, following the example of the Booster Brolly.
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Multi-functional Products — Businesses can consider developing multi-functional products that serve more than one purpose, such as the Booster Brolly as both an umbrella and phone charger.
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Smartphone Signal Boosters — With the need for reliable communication during outdoor events, businesses can create similar products that improve smartphone signal strength, like the Booster Brolly.
Industry Implications
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Consumer Electronics — Consumer electronics brands can explore creating more versatile gadgets like the Booster Brolly to meet the demands of consumers who require constant connectivity.
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Outdoor Events — Outdoor event organizers can partner with brands that make products like the Booster Brolly to provide attendees with a practical and efficient solution for charging their phones and boosting the signal while at the event.
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Green Energy — Businesses in the green energy sector can develop and market new products like the Booster Brolly to promote the use of sustainable energy sources while providing practical, usable functionality.