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You know what makes a fuel cell charger in your pocket a little less frightening? Colors! CEATEC mainstay Rohm has arrived back in Japan with a new set of hydrogen-source fuel cell chargers, with the latest prototype lot boasting a litany of new hues that may very well match up with that iPhone 5c you’re (presumably) picking up soon. The actual technology used within hasn’t changed from last year, but the company is evidently considering the release of such portable chargers for those who’d prefer something a bit less drab. We’re told that a fully-fueled pack can keep the average smartphone alive for twice as long as it would otherwise last, but as has become the norm at this show, there’s nary a hint of a price / release date.

Mat Smith contributed to this report. %Gallery-slideshow99598%

Filed under: Peripherals

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You’d be forgiven for thinking that hydrogen fuel cell cars have vanished when EVs rule the headlines, but GM and Honda haven’t forgotten them — in fact, they’ve just unveiled a new fuel cell partnership. The automakers are jointly developing next-generation hydrogen systems and storage, using their collective resources to cut costs and accelerate their schedule. If all goes well, the two companies will show “commercially feasible” fuel cell products around 2020. Don’t fret if that sounds too distant, however. Honda has already committed to launching an FCX Clarity sequel in 2015, and GM is promising additional fuel cell details at a “later date.”

Filed under: Transportation

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Via: New York Times

Source: GM, Honda

Rohm’s hydrogen fuel cells are meant to power smartphones and other mobile devices, but unlike other juicing-up solutions, the cells are only good for one charge. Rohm says disposable fuel cells can be made smaller and lighter than their multi-use counterparts, and as the only byproduct is hydrogen, the company is touting the cells’ eco-friendliness. The system generates electricity by using hydrogen that’s created by the reaction of a metal material and water. While the device we saw here at CEATEC is a prototype, Rohm may offer its recharging system as both a smartphone case and a USB-attachable juicepack. Each offers 5Wh and can fully charge a handset once. There’s also a 200W power generator, which certainly stretches the meaning of portable but can keep a laptop, LCD TV and a peripheral or two going for three to four hours. Rohm says its fuel cells will see a commercial release some time in 2013; for now you can get a sneak peek in our hands-on gallery below.

Zach Honig contributed to this report.

Filed under: Cellphones, Peripherals

Rohm 5Wh hydrogen fuel cells power up smartphones, ready for the trash after one charge originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 11:22:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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