Photo credit: Lets Go Digital
The problem with most smartphones today is their battery life, and resorting to power banks may not always be the answer, especially if you want to keep things light or don’t have a large enough pocket / bag to carry both in. Xiaomi aims to solve that problem by integrating solar panels directly into a smartphone. This means that as long as you’re in sunlight, your device will be constantly recharging the battery.
Xiaomi Mobile Software filed a design patent with the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Office) for a smartphone with a solar cell module last July. The sketches depict a full-screen smartphone with a possible under-display selfie camera and a dual vertical camera setup out back. What really stands out is the built-in solar panel array on the back. Fortunately, these panels do not add much bulk, and should not stick out more than the rear camera module. There’s no official word yet on if there will be a working on display soon, but we’ll keep you posted as more information is released.
