We’re aware that there’s already a call for a standardized charging solution for mobile phones, but can you imagine not even having to connect your phone to an outlet to charge it?
Well, that’s what Nokia’s hoping to achieve with their latest project. The Nokia Research Centre in Cambridge, UK is trying to develop a new technology wherein mobile phones can harness the electrical current from ambient electromagnetic radiation emitted by WiFi transmitters, TV masts, and even a mobile phone’s antenna just to name a few. In a nutshell, the new technology basically uses the same principle applied in RFID. Electromagnetic waves are simply converted into electrical signals only magnified to greater levels.
As a matter of fact, Nokia is reported to already have a prototype device that can produce up to 5 milliwatts according to Technology Review. Unfortunately, 5 milliwatts isn’t enough. 50 milliwatts is their current target which should suffice for recharging a handset when its turned off. According to Markky Rouvala, one of Nokia’s researchers in Cambridge, a fully-functioning device can become commercially available within 3 to 4 years time. If this becomes a reality, this will definitely help lessen the production of materials that will eventually be discarded later on. One less mobile charger is one less pollutant for the planet.
In addition to that, Nokia is also working on “other energy-harvesting approaches” such as solar energy (read: Samsung Blue Earth). This isn’t as unique as the use of electromagnetic waves, but will nonetheless be a welcome treat if and when it becomes available.
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