SolePower Device-Charging Insole
A shoe insole to charge my phone? Crapazola, this is even better than the stationary bike I use to power my desktop PC. SolePower generates juice for cell phones, mp3 players, and GPS devices by the power of the human gait. And while makers of SolePower Tech grant that foot-powered, energy-harvesting mechanisms aren't new, they have managed to build their version into a removable insole that can be swapped between pairs of shoes, or removed entirely when not in use, instead of embedded inside of them.
SolePower insoles fit inside a walker's shoe and then connect to a small battery that either fastens at the ankle or the top of the instep. The battery charges during walking (or similar movement) and then plugs into the mobile device in need of a pick-me-up.
SolePowers require between 2-1/2 and 5 miles of walking to generate enough energy for a full iPhone charge. The devices are waterproof and weather-resistant, and simulated to 100 million steps during testing prior to wear-out. They run as a Kickstarter campaign through July 18, 2013.
December 2013 Update: While SolePower achieved its Kickstarter funding goal, it appears its initial production run and delivery of backers' chargers is still in the works. Follow the link below to the SolePower Website for further information and updates about future availability to the general public.
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