Redwood Shores,
Calif. — Kensington’s computer products group will ship a new line of
universal smartphone accessories designed to enhance mobility.
The line includes
two charging devices, a car mount and two auxiliary cables for the car that are
compatible with BlackBerry, Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, HTC and other
smartphones, according to the company.
Kensington’s
Pocket Battery for smartphones (Model K38056US) is a thin, 1.76-ounce
rechargeable external lithium-polymer battery that can add up to 3.5 hours of
talk time to a depleted smartphone. It can be recharged via USB and includes
built-in mini and micro USB charging tips “so there are no parts to lose,”
the company said. The suggested retail is $39.99.
Kensington’s USB
car charger (K39242US) features an ultra low profile design and charges any
USB-powered device through any 12-volt port. It includes an LED power indicator
and has a suggested retail of $9.99.
Also new is the
universal windshield/vent car mount for smartphones (K39217US). A universal
cradle attaches to either an oversized suction cup for windshield mounting, or
a vent mounting clip, both included. The cradle has one-button quick release
and pivots for vertical or landscape modes. It retails for $29.99.
Kensington is also
offering two direct auxiliary audio cables for smartphone/MP3 player use over a
vehicle’s sound system through its aux port. The 3.5mm cables are braided for
durability and are 4 feet in length. The basic cable (K39202US) retails for a
suggested $9.99. A noise-reducing version (K39203US) is said to reduce the hum
from a vehicle’s electrical system. It retails for $19.99.
The new line is
currently available for pre-order at Amazon.com and has begun rolling out at
.
“At Kensington we
understand that life is busy and on the go, all of the time, so our products
must support mobile professionals with the right features to enhance not only
their smartphone but the productivity apps they rely on as well,” said Jim
Murakami, global product manager. “We give you everything that you need and
nothing more. Regardless of where you conduct your business, you can break free
of the tether that keeps you at a computer or desk.”
Murakami cited
Gartner research data showing that smartphones are on track to be the dominant
trend in the handset market as costs fall and performance increases. By 2013,
smartphones will out-ship laptops by more than 2-to-1, according to Gartner.
