Can you imagine a solar power iPhone capable of sustaining itself purely using the energy from the sun?
It’s a concept that’s not as far-fetched as you may think.
By the way, when we say solar power iPhone, we don’t mean a regular iPhone with roof panels stuck on the back.
Instead, teams of scientists around the world are experiencing breakthroughs in ‘invisible’ solar power technology and Apple is reportedly very interested.
The release of the new iPhone 6 has been met with a flood of positive reviews, not to mention pre-order sales which indicate that this may very well become the most successful iPhone to date. However, one criticism being heard from some industry observers is that Apple is toning down its innovative approach, instead treading a safer, more mainstream route, particularly since the passing of Steve Jobs.
If Apple was to adopt new solar technology that is being developed by teams such as the one at Michigan State University however, critics would surely be silenced. Lead by Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering and Material Science Richard Lunt, a new transparent solar panel could soon change everything.
In theory, the panel could not only be used to provide solar power to the iPhone, but vehicle windscreens, skyscraper windows and other similar clear surfaces as well. While the technology is still in its early stages, it has great potential to be mass produced – and at minimal cost too.
Meanwhile in the U.K., a team lead by Professor David Lidzey at the University of Sheffield is creating a ‘spray on’ solar panel using the material Perovskite, which can absorb light in layers almost 200 times thinner than the common Silicon used mostly today.
According to an article on the International Business Times Website, Apple is very interested in these emerging technologies. The article contends that, Apple was granted a Patent for ‘Integrated touch sensor and solar assembly’ in May of this year and the revised patent now allows for solar panels ‘to be flexible as well as face into the phone.
So don’t be surprised if one day keeping your iPhone charged longer will be as simple as a few leisurely minutes spent under the sun.
Solar power, it seems, is continuing to change the way we live and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
