14 DAY TRIAL // Without a doubt, the number of portable devices requiring an USB interface for recharging their internal batteries is set to only get bigger over the next couple of years, and for this reason, the people over at Fastmac have decided to do the logical thing and developed a special type of wall socket, that also incorporates USB connectors and a built-in power adapter.
The device in question, called U-Socket, is in fact a duplex AC receptacle with built-in USB ports that can power any device that is capable of being charged via a 5V power adapter, but without the need for the power adapter.
The device is 15 Amp, 125 Volt NEMA compliant 5-15R, offers a BTO Tamper Resistant Option and also sports auto sensing wattage technology that will ultimately cut on the overall power draw.
Last, but certainly not least, we'll have to mention that the U-Socket can charge up to 4 devices at a time without employing any additional adapters, which is a whole lot better than what most of the power sockets currently in use can achieve.
Plus, the wall socket is quite future-proof, since the 2.4A-5V USB ports are SuperSpeed (USB 3.0) compliant.
Plus, it's also important to point out that this thing delivers quite an impressive level of versatility, given the fact that's compatible with a variety of devices, including the iPod, iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, Nintendo, PSP, Bluetooth Headsets, Digital Cameras, GPS navigators and more.
Practically, there's no limit to the type of devices that can be hooked up to the U-Socket, as long as they support USB charging.
Pricing for the new U-Socket from Fastmac is actually quite affordable, the standard version selling for just around 20 US dollars, while the Decora version, featuring a slightly different overall design, sells for somewhere in the vicinity of 24 US dollars.