Beach lovers rejoice! At the recent CES event, Anker Solix made waves by announcing the launch of its remarkable Solar Beach Umbrella, alongside the debut of the EverFrost 2 electric cooler. This dynamic duo promises not only to provide shade but also to keep your devices charged while you relax by the water, revolutionizing the way we enjoy the great outdoors.
Traditionally, outdoor umbrellas equipped with solar panels have been available, but their capability often falls short. Anker Solix, however, is stepping things up with a groundbreaking design. The solar panel integrated into the umbrella spans its entire crown, delivering an impressive maximum solar input of 100W, equivalent to standard solar panels. Results from Anker’s testing reveal that the umbrella performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, boasting a solar generation of 200% at 20,000 lux and 130% at 50,000 lux. This means beachgoers can expect reliable energy generation even on overcast days.
What can you do with all that generated energy? The options are plentiful. Whether you want to recharge your phone, power a portable speaker, or even connect to Anker’s range of power stations, the capabilities are extensive. The possibility of plugging your devices directly into the EverFrost 2 cooler — which can keep food and beverages cold for an impressive 52 hours on a full charge — adds another layer of convenience to beach outings. The umbrella comes equipped with both XT-60 and USB-C ports, and the cooler itself doubles as a power bank, offering 60W USB-C and 12W USB-A charging.
Measuring 84 inches in height and 74 inches in diameter, the umbrella provides enough shade to accommodate multiple individuals. Its robust design features waterproof solar panels rated at IP67 and incorporates sunshade fabric to maintain a cooler environment underneath. Although Anker has yet to disclose the weight of the umbrella or the cooler, the potential cumbersome nature of transporting these power-packed items to the beach could much influence their practicality. It may be more suitable to position the umbrella on a patio, enhancing power availability in your outdoor space.
Anker Solix has established itself as a leader in the battery technology sector, producing a range of reliable backup batteries that cater to various needs, from portable options to household backups. Their advancements in solar technology allow for efficient power generation even in variable weather conditions, suggesting that their focus on integrated solar solutions for everyday objects is timely. This pushes the envelope for integrating solar capabilities into outdoor equipment, an evolution that has been slow to gain traction compared to other tech sectors.
The potential of these advancements shines light on the future of solar energy in everyday devices. The advancement in smart technology towards greater connectivity hints that solar integration in mobile devices could soon be commonplace, reducing the necessity for bulky power banks and creating streamlined outdoor experiences. The innovative ideas from Anker Solix don’t stop at beach gear; the concept of patio furniture that heats in winter or cools in summer could be on the horizon, marrying comfort with sustainability.
Although precise pricing has yet to be finalized, the Anker Solix Beach Umbrella is expected to hit the market this summer, while the EverFrost 2 will be available starting February 21st in three sizes, with prices beginning at $699. As more details emerge, consumers can look forward to enhancing their beach experiences with Anker’s innovative approach to power generation and outdoor comfort.