AT&T unveils ultra-green USB phone charger
updated 10:55 am EDT, Wed March 17, 2010
ATT ZERO Charger wastes no energy when done
AT&T today trumpeted its green credentials through the ZERO Charger. The Superior Communications-made device powers most low-power USB devices, including the iPhone, and is purportedly the world's first charger to avoid "vampire" power draw. When a device is full, the ZERO automatically stops charging and therefore avoids a trickle of energy when a device is left plugged in. The interchangeable "block" design also reduces the obsolescence of the charger once owners replace their devices.
The packaging itself helps and is made entirely of recycled paper.
Both features make AT&T one of the earliest adoptees of the philosophy behind the new universal cellphone charger standard, which was originally created to reduce both power consumption and waste. AT&T's solution isn't a direct reflection of the standard as the ITU and involved partners haven't settled on the connectors, but the iPhone and most modern cellphones often include adapter cables that connect to USB.
No pricing has been given, but AT&T expects the ZERO Charger to cost as much as a regular power adapter. It will ship sometime in May.
Professional Poster
Joined: May 2000
Ditch the LED
If they really wanted the product to be green, why include an LED light on it? Every device I've ever charged has some built-in indication to tell me if it's actually charging or not, and also when it's full. The LED on this charger is a waste of electricity.