Energizer, Duracell unveil portable new power devices

Chain Drug Review, Nov 5, 2007

NEW YORK -- The electronics category has heated up with the launch of portable power devices from Energizer Holdings Inc. and Procter & Gamble Co.'s Duracell division.

The new Energizer Energi To Go portable power for iPod features Energizer e2 Lithium AA batteries in a compact, cord-free unit. It has a patented intelligent control chip to maximize power transfer to the iPod, and its flip design allows it to be used as a stand while charging and to fold up for storage.

The new Duracell mobile charger serves as a portable power hub, delivering a charge to a range of high-drain devices--from digital cameras and portable gaming systems to iPods, MP3 players and BlackBerrys--through several methods.

The Energi to Go device is said to be sleek enough to complement the styling of the iPod. It promises considerable extra listening time for iPod users. In testing with Energizer e2 Lithium AA batteries, it provided more than 46 hours of music playback on the iPod nano and more than 32 hours on the iPod with video.

"At Energizer we're always trying to respond to consumers' needs for portable power," says general manager for new products Mike Rivard. "With the new Energizer Energi To Go portable power for iPod, whether one is on a plane, at a campground or at any other location without a power outlet, the music will keep going. And it features the kind of design that iPod owners appreciate and expect."

The unit features a licensed Apple iPod tip and is adjustable for compatibility with fourth- and fifth-generation iPods, the iPod nano and iPod mini. The suggested retail price for the device, including the charger and two Energizer e2 Lithium AA batteries, is $29.99.

The Energi To Go line also includes a portable battery-powered charger for some 100 cell phone models and for such mini-USB devices as the Razr, Blackberry and Palm Treo. Its suggested retail price is $19.99.

The Duracell mobile charger features a port for charging a wide range of USB-enabled devices with built-in rechargeable batteries. The charger can provide power to USB-enabled devices via precharged NiMH batteries as well as by being plugged into a wall outlet or car adaptor.

The charger is packaged with Duracell precharged batteries that can be recharged hundreds of times, delivering hours of music and up to 5,000 digital photos over the life of two batteries. The batteries feature a new rechargeable technology, eliminating the need for charging before first-time use. They can retain power for up to one year while not in use and promise to stay charged longer and to need recharging less often than other batteries.

"Today's on-the-go consumers are looking for new ways to power their portable lifestyles," says Duracell North America brand manager Rachel Calomeni. "Our innovative and easy-to-use mobile charger is the ultimate power pack, delivering extraordinary performance and giving users the flexibility to power devices anytime, anywhere."

The charger's suggested price is $24.99.