Some might think that the title is one lengthy typo, as it’s usually WiFi that depletes your battery, but we assure you it’s not. A company called RCA has managed to devise a great little gadget that will allow your phone to harvest WiFi energy and convert it into electricity, thus charging your mobile phone for free. Yes, you read it right - for free. (Tesla was a genius, but not much of a businessman. sub.ed.)

The device is called Airnergy and while this concept isn’t new, this seems to be the first time it’s found a practical use. In fact, the Airnergy managed to charge a Blackberry from 30% battery to full battery in 90 minutes, all the while using “free” energy.

The Airnergy packs a battery within, so all you need to do is carry it around with you in your pocket. Of course, reasonable proximity to WiFi spots wouldn’t hurt either, but the device runs all the time, so charging should not be a problem.

RCA says that Airnergy will hit retail in summer, with the same technology-based battery soon to follow, and will cost as low as $40, which sounds almost too good to be true. We just hope they stop using the word “free”, as history has proven many times that free energy is not something that “Big Brothers” would ever unleash on the great unwashed.

You can find out more here, where you’ll find a detailed explanation on video. (Once again, if Tesla didn't make it work, this guy won't either. sub.ed.)



[Picture courtesy of ohgizmo.com]