UK technology company Intelligent Energy has launched Upp™, a product which introduces energy freedom from the grid. Upp™ is a revolutionary personal energy device which makes use of hydrogen fuel cell technology instead of mains power to charge and power USB-compatible portable electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, tablets, portable gaming consoles and digital cameras.
The Upp fuel cell produces clean electricity by mixing hydrogen with air and produces water vapor as a by-product. Users simply have to attach the fuel cell to a replaceable fuel cartridge to get instant energy for their devices. With the ability to charge and power as fast as the mains, it delivers at least one week of charge even to the most demanding smartphones.
Upp has an intelligent Auto Shutoff feature that helps in conserving energy and it also protects battery life of the electronic device it is charging. To facilitate better management of fuel levels, there is an Upp mobile app, which is free for both iOS and Android devices.
The Upp charger will launch in Africa at around $199. The price tag is high compared to the cost of a generic outlet charger. It has a long way to go before this technology is available with an attractive price.
