2009 CES: Solar-powered Bluetooth speaker for hands-free calling

I came across these clever items at the Nextar booth. They let you make wireless hands-free calls in the car without needing a Bluetooth-enabled headset or audio system. And, when mounted to the windshield, they’re recharged by the sun.

Nextar offers two versions: the NXBT-001 retails for about $60 and the NXBT-002 for about $70. Both will connect to your Bluetooth phone automatically and provide voice dialing, last number re-dial, and a mute function. The 001 can provide 250 hours of standby time and 10 hours of talk time when fully charged; the 002, about 150 hours on standby and 6 hours of talk time. If needed, they can also be charged through a car adapter.

The 002 also includes an LED display that shows a caller’s ID. They’ll go on sale this spring at major retail outlets.

—Rik Paul

See all our automotive-related coverage from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), as well as CES coverage from the Electronics team. Learn more about mobile electronics in our complete guide.

Comments

[Cale]

I wonder if these will be $15 stocking stuffers in a year's time? I like to concept of solar power, replacing batteries while driving sounds dangerous. ;-)