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Get an iPhone battery pack for $9.99 shipped
It's not very glamorous, but this battery pack delivers iPhone power on the cheap.
(Credit: Meritline)The older your iPhone gets, the worse its battery performs. Don't blame Apple: it's just the nature of rechargeable batteries that they wear out over time.
Sadly, you can't just swap in a new one--not without some warranty-voiding surgery. But you can plug in external power, which is cheap, easy, and affordable.
For example, Meritline has an 1800mAh iPhone backup battery for $9.99 shipped. That's after applying coupon code MLC262531102717A (which expires Oct. 29) at checkout.
The standard iPhone 3G battery has an 1150mAh capacity, meaning this plug-in pack should afford at least 50 percent more runtime all by itself. You can use it for emergency power if your battery's on empty or to recharge your iPhone on the go.
And, hey, 10 bucks? Grab a couple. Throw one in the glove box, another in your coat pocket, etc. That way you'll always have backup power when you need it.
This battery pack is compatible with all iPhone and iPod Touch models. Keep in mind that because it ships from Hong Kong, it could take a couple weeks to reach your mailbox.
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog.
This is a less bulky solution than having to carry a portable battery charger.
I ended up going back to eBay and picking up another one (the model with the lightup blue arrow pointing upward). It came last week and so far, so good. It has a much better connection.
Of course YMMV.
I usually think CNET has better reporting. TKD27 is right on target.
2. When the phone reaches a full charge, it says the device is not compatible.
3. It places all the mechanical stress on the connector. Not good for repeated use.
I purchased 5 of them. 2 were DOA.
Don't waste your money.
"We are sorry for the inconvenience. The item has been discontinued. $ 21.23 full refund has been processed for your order due to no receive the package. The transaction will take in 2 to 4 business days."
http://www.handhelditems.com/iphone-ipod-external-1000mah-backup-battery-with-black-2pack-p-117570.html
2-Pack iPhone and iPod External 1000mAh Backup Battery w/ LED $13.99, Oct. 26 4 PM
Hand Held Items has the 2-Pack of Apple iPhone and iPod External 1000mAh Backup Battery w/ LED (Black or White) for a low $13.99 after $5 off Coupon Code: 2battery1000mah. (Exp 11/30). $5.95 Shipping. Tax in CA.
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by MacJoeSmith
October 28, 2009 4:10 AM PDT
- When this was posted last time, I tried to order, but they were out. I did eventually however get one. These are the worst kind of cheap Chinese knock-offs of something that should work. To make is worse, I actually disassembled mine cause it seemed unable to fully charge my iPhone 3G. Turns out it only had like a 800mAh battery !!!!, not the 1800 or 1900 it was suppose to have. I complained to Mertitline and did get a refund, but they apparently may still be pushing these off. Now these may actually have the properly sized battery, but unless you want to potentially throw away $10, don't bother.
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