Go green on your iPhone with crazy new solar powered skins

Lots of iPhone users are in love with their mobile wonderdevices, and a frown only surfaces when the battery runs low from heavy use. That problem could be a thing of the past soon, when NovoThink launches its new solar powered case for the iPhone, the Surge.

How does it work? It combines three different concepts into one: a phone charger, a photovoltaic cell, and a protective case. The Surge transfers energy from the sun directly to the iPhone when connected, or it can charge its own battery and later transfer that power over to the iPhone as needed.

iPhone loyalists may hesitate to adopt the Surge for constant use though because it essentially covers up simple elegance and instead presents a somewhat blocky appearance with a black and white photovoltaic cell on the back. For specific trips and as a backup, completely portable charger, the Surge has a compelling value proposition.

It maintains full access to the iPhone’s touch screen, USB port, and speaker port while also providing 8 different color options. The efficiency of its charging will be directly proportionate to how much sunlight is available. NovoThink’s Solar Everyday Planner page will provide a good idea of how well the Surge performs.

The Surge will retail for just under $70 and it will be available for purchase at the end of September, according to a company press release. This is the first solar powered skin to be released that’s been licensed by Apple, and for some that endorsement means a lot.

One note of caution, leaving your iPhone out charging in direct sunlight for an extended period of time may not be a good idea as it could overheat. It wasn’t designed to withstand as much heat as the Surge.

This is a great example of a company innovating in the green space in a way that’s complimentary to an existing paradigm, in contrast with the governments approach to the incandescent light bulb ban.