Published on 06/11/2007
Solar-powered cellphones are definitely a boon to the industry, and Hi-Tech Wealth from China has recently launched the first commercialized solar-powered handset in the world - the S116. Features of this unique cellphone include a microSD memory card slot and a 1.3 megapixel camera, with more than 20 patents being filed in China in order to protect the intellectual properties - something rather ironic considering just how many counterfeit hardware are being produced in China. Apparently, exposure to direct sunlight for an hour will give the S116 up to 40 minutes of talk time, but you don't have to roast your handset all day long as even "weak light" such as indoor lighting and even candle light are able to charge the battery. Pre-orders for the S116 stand at a massive 50,000 units, where each unit retails for $510. Will you be getting one of these when it comes Stateside, if ever?