Solar power recharges Samsung’s new Blue Earth mobile phone

Anyone who’s traveled knows that low batteries on mobile phones happen at the worst times. Samsung is fixing that problem and going green at the same time by turning to solar energy. The new Blue Earth mobile phone draws power from solar panels on the back, and is made from recycled water bottles. But what about days when there isn’t enough sunlight?

The Blue Earth is prepared. It also comes with a regular charger, so drawing power from the traditional power grid is still an option on dreary days. Samsung is heeding the popular trend right now by providing green products and it stands to profit handsomely from listening to customers. But even with a novel power source, the Blue Earth will need to provide some whizbang features to pull users away from their beloved Apple iPhone.

Samsung must have thought the same thing because it’s integrated a pedometer and an instant energy-efficient mode that makes default tweaks to screen brightness, backlight timing, and Bluetooth. Beyond a svelte look and Apple’s marketing clout, the iPhone also has an exploding mobile applications market. That will be a determining factor for Blue Earth’s success as well because consumers are looking for energy efficiency and added functionality.

Of course, some part of Samsung’s goal may be simply to put a good show on for consumers focused on sustainability without putting a ton of effort into the success of the Blue Earth. That’s characterized in comments like this from one of Samsung’s Vice Presidents:

“Samsung’s ‘The Blue Earth Dream’ demonstrates our small but meaningful commitments for the future and our environment. We are committed to achieving the highest eco-status with our customers and business partners by providing the best eco-products and promoting eco-activities.”

However, if Samsung is able to realize its promises while still turning a solid profit it will shortly begin to leap past the competition. And that’s the story for any company that’s able to integrate sustainability into its operation effectively.