Portable chargers are a necessity, considering how often we use our smartphones these days. We need to charge them too, though, which isn't always convenient. The solution? Solar power.
Solar Paper works essentially the same way as any other portable USB charger. When you need to charge your smartphone, simply plug it into the device. Unlike these other devices, Solar Paper is powered by an unlimited and environmentally friendly source of energy – the sun.
The ultra-thin Solar Paper is, according to its creator Yolk, the most efficient solar panel on the consumer market. It can fully charge an iPhone in two hours. If you move into the shade, it will stop charging, but the auto-reset feature means it will turn back on when the light returns.
Each panel produces 2.5 watts of power, so for an iPhone that requires 5 watts, you need two panels. Additional panels connect magnetically to add more power. For example, to charge an iPad (10 watts), you'll need four panels.
You don't have to be outside to use Solar Paper, but you do need bright sunlight. It's definitely more useful for hikers, campers, and other outdoor adventurers. Between taking photos and using GPS, your phone can drain pretty quickly, and you don't want your battery to die if you get lost or need help.
Each solar paper panel comes with holes in the corners so you can hang the solar charger on your backpack to continue charging on the go. Any device that charges via USB can be charged with Solar Paper.
Solar Paper is now available on Amazon. You can order two, three, or four panels depending on your needs, and each order comes with a convenient storage case.
