Batteries lose capacity over time. Operating systems such as Windows and macOS already offer several features that are intended to extend battery longevity. Chargie should make it even easier to protect laptop batteries. It's a small gadget that is inserted between a USB-C charging port and the charging cable of a laptop. Adapters are available for laptops from Dell, HP and Lenovo, which connect via a classic hollow plug instead of USB-C.
Chargie supports chargers with an output of up to 100 watts. After Chargie has been plugged in, the gadget must be connected to the laptop via Bluetooth so that it can be set up using the associated software. The app is available for Windows, macOS and Chrome OS and offers, among other things, the option to limit the maximum battery charge, for example to 80 percent. This extends the service life, since batteries are especially stressed when they are fully charged or emptied.
Are you a techie who knows how to write? Then join our Team! Wanted:
- News Writer (Romania based)
Details here
That would also be possible with a pure software solution, but Chargie offers a number of additional features. Chargie allows you to create schedules for charging processes and to display and limit the current charging rate. The idea is that a battery that is charged more slowly becomes less hot, which protects the battery cells. Consequently, charging takes longer. After an update planned for the second quarter of 2025, Chargie should also be able to be used with smartphones.
Prices and Availability
Chargie is currently crowdfunded on Kickstarter, where the gadget can be pre-ordered in the "Early Bird" offer for $40. Later, the price will rise to $49. Delivery is expected to begin in February 2025, the prices mentioned do not include shipping and import tax. As usual, crowdfunding campaigns pose certain risks: products may not be delivered or could be of poor quality if production problems arise.