Today DuckDuckGo published a post about the risks of using public charging stations. Technology exists that lets hackers install malware via these chargers. While I personally think the risk is a bit overblown, this is an argument I think can be added in favor of a portless iPhone.
Although it has become synonymous with charging, USB technology was initially developed with the aim of transmitting data. Thus, hackers can use these public charging stations to install malware on your smartphone or tablet through a compromised USB cable. This process, called “juice jacking”, allows hackers to read and export your data, including your passwords. They can even lock your device this way, rendering it unusable.
LAS VEGAS – We had a chance to check out Unravel, a Qi charger that may be two or three chargers in one, at this week’s Pepcom Digital Experience! event.
The pre-Black Friday deals keep appearing. Today, Thursday 15 November, the Anker 30W 6-Port USB Charger PowerPort is available on Amazon for $15.99. This is a nice saving on its normal $20 price point. The Anker PowerPort can be used to charge a variety of Apple devices and, frankly, when do you ever have enough USB ports?
If you want to charge your Apple Watch from your new Mac, or its power brick you’re in luck because Apple just released a USB-C Magnetic Charger cable.
Twelve South just expanded its PlugBug lineup with the new PlugBug Duo. It’s a replacement for the outlet plug on your MacBook and MacBook Pro MagSafe or USB C charger that includes two USB-A ports for powering up other devices like your iPhone and iPad. The USB ports offer 12 W for charging, and the PlugBug includes five adapters so you can use it in more than 150 countries. The PlugBug Duo is available on the Twelve South website for US$49.99.
There’s a good chance Apple will include an 18 W USB-C charger with the next generation iPhone, and now photos showing up online seem to back that up. The photos popped up on Chongdiantou and show what appear to be an Apple charger that could work with both iPhones and iPads. If so, it’s likely a prototype. If not, it’s a clever attempt to trick people into thinking this is an Apple charger. Considering Apple is moving Macs to USB-C from USB A, it’s likely that change is coming to iPhone and iPad chargers, too, and could come as soon as this fall.
Ten One Designs introduced its Stella replacement power cord for MacBook and MacBook Pro chargers on Tuesday. The cord is wrapped in braided fabric, and the plug-end lights up when it’s near a power outlet. It also has a built-in clip so you can wrap the cord around your charger brick. The cable is white and you can choose between aqua and blue for the plug head. The design makes it easy to see outlets in the dark and lets you know if they have power, too. Stella is priced at US$34.95 and it ships in July.
Curious to see if your MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro charger is outputting the wattage you expect? Here’s how to check it out and troubleshoot any problems you may find.
Guardians of the Galaxy fans know this to be true: Groot is awesome, and baby Groot is spectacularly cute. Now you can put that cuteness to work charging your smartphone on the go thanks to the Groot USB Car Charger at Think Geek. The best part is baby Groot dances while your phone charges. He freaking dances. The charger fits in your car’s cup holder, sports two USB ports, and connects to the in-dash DC12V outlet for power. You can get your own dancing baby Groot car charger at Think Geek for US$39.99.
There’s no shortage of charging stands for Apple Watch, but the W3 Stand from Elago certainly has a unique appeal. Available in white or black, the W3 mimics the design of the original Apple Macintosh, first released back in 1984. It’s just non-functional plastic, of course, but it can give longtime Apple fans a jolt of nostalgia each morning. The Elago W3 is available now from Amazon for about $17 including shipping. Thanks to Apple Insider for the heads up.
Sure, that counterfeit iPhone charger on Amazon is less than half the price of a real one, but according to a recent UK study, it may also kill you. When it comes to electricity, you probably shouldn’t be too frugal.
Available in early December, the Just Mobile AluCharge is a four port. USB-A only charging hub. Made of solid aluminum, It outputs up to 31 watts and is designed to be world ready with the corresponding power plug. While it’s small and well made, it has some disadvantages compared to a notable competitor reviewed previously.
Satechi has introduced the “60W 6-Port Multi-Port USB Desktop Charging Station.” It’s a pure charging hub that intelligently partitions up to 60 watts of power to four USB-A ports and two USB-C ports. Notable features include a great exterior design, a power LED and an on/off switch. John reviews it.
