Apple's Smart Battery Case (Photo : Facebook)
Apple has launched a rechargeable battery case for the iPhone 6 and 6s, entering a highly competitive market. Theories about why the tech giant rolled out its Smart Battery Case include addressing the iPhone 6s' battery life issues. However, the goal is more likely to test the waters of a new market, and just in time for the holiday shopping season.
Apple's product description on its official website claims that the new case extends the smart phone's battery life by 18 to 25 hours. The extra power supply is available in white and dark gray.
After placing the smartphone in the battery case when its power is less than 100 percent, it will start charging. When the case's power is empty, it will begin getting juice from the original iPhone battery.
If users select the Apple handset's Notification Center pull down menu, they can see how much power is left in the iPhone 6s/6 and battery case. An icon shows up.
The smart battery case contains a port for charging with Lightning connection cables. This gives iPhone owners the ability to charge the smartphone and case at one time.
The silicon case reduces the iPhone 6s's slickness, yet it lacks the high-friction surface of many cheap silicon cases on the market, due to being microfiber-lined. It is also not overly bulky.
One big criticism the battery case has received is related to a bump on the back of the case, according to CNBC. In addition, some headphones are not compatible.
In terms of performance, the battery case cannot provide a full charge when the battery is at zero percent. However, that feature is available on other cases.
Another key drawback is that the official iPhone battery case lacks an on/off switch and indicator lights, according to Wired. That gives the owner less control about when to juice up the iPhone 6s/6.
Finally, like other Apple accessories, the price tag of the rechargeable battery case is quite exorbitant. It costs $99.
Apple is working on a more permanent fix to battery life issues, including rechargeable hydrogen fuel cells in the works. A Fortune magazine online survey in January showed that one-third of adults were most excited about longer battery life for smartphones.
Here are several ways to save iPhone 6s battery life:
