iPhoneck Backup Battery for iPhone 3G (standard)

Though the iPhone 3G fixed a big flaw in the original iPhone by offering wireless broadband access, many reviewers and users, CNET included, have noticed that the 3G feature drains the handset's battery quickly. But considering that nothing is constant in the tech world, and everyone wants a piece of Apple's device, we weren't surprised to see a flurry of iPhone battery extenders.

The iPhoneck Backup Battery is one such product. Like the Smart Smart Backup Battery by Richard Solo, the iPhoneck delivers extra juice to your iPhone when it's about to go dark. But unlike Richard Solo's product, the iPhoneck battery is designed specifically for the iPhone 3G. It does exactly what it's supposed to do, though we wish its construction didn't feel quite so cheap. The iPhoneck battery comes in two models: a standard version for $29.99 and an extended version for $42.99.

The iPhoneck battery's design couldn't be simpler. Clad in black with a silver trim, the iPhoneck battery is designed to mimic the iPhone 3G's design. At one end you'll see Apple's standard 32-pin connecter, while the normal iPhone charger port sits on the other end. There's also a small status light in the upper-left corner. Unfortunately, we weren't in love with the iPhoneck battery's construction. The plastic shell feels rather cheap and the front face shows scratches easily.