Review on 🌞 USB+AA Solar Charger by PowerFilm by Jonathan Fernandez

I know that solar chargers can't be that powerful and fragile, but I decided to risk it because I really like this concept. I couldn't be happier! Very, very versatile. Rugged design, super light, folds compact enough to fit in your pocket, charges AA and USB devices (using AA power). I hang it on the window before bed and when I go to work the batteries are fully charged. I've been experimenting with this to see how good it is - I've mostly bought it for camping and when I'm traveling for work (too often I'm sitting in airports for hours). Here's some random information I found useful in the review: 1) Folds down to about the size of a large men's wallet. 2) This thing works way better than those Radio Shack solar chargers (which you have to buy chargers for, I might add). 3) I was planning to make a MintyBoost, but now I don't need it as it's essentially a MintyBoost that charges itself! 4) The extra flap next to the battery compartment can be wrapped around something (like a pole) and attached to itself. with Velcro fastener. In other words, there's usually no need to use a bungee or rope to tie it to anything when you're on a hike or anywhere outdoors. 5) The solar panels themselves are flexible, really flexible, like you could fold them. half (although I wouldn't recommend it). 6) The battery compartment is NOT waterproof, but it is located on the bottom (of solar panels) so light rain cannot damage it. 7) Charges 2 AA batteries simultaneously (I wasn't 100% sure when I bought it). Phone afterwards (I think it's just an iPod issue). That's pretty impressive considering how much power the smartphone consumes. For those interested in "alternative power" you can use it to unplug your phone BUT it's not that simple. Either charge the batteries in the morning before you leave (I don't drive at dawn) or if you have a long drive ahead you can at least partially charge them by placing them on the dash or something. Then partially charge your phone. Hang the solar panel on a window or something (facing the sun!) until it's fully charged again, then charge your phone again in the evening. Turn off your phone at night so it retains at least some power. Tadaa! (This only really works if you lead a sedentary lifestyle like me.) For those new to solar panels, don't expect too much from solar power. This is NOT more efficient than plugging in a phone/PMP/etc. into a wall socket. They need full sun and hours of patience.