Ex-Hyper Founder Unveils Semi-Solid MagSafe Power Banks
▼ Summary
– A new company called BMX, founded by accessory industry veteran Daniel Chin, has launched SolidSafe semi-solid state power banks for the general public.
– These batteries are not fully solid-state but use a solid-liquid mixed electrolyte, offering advantages like safety from damage and longer lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
– The SolidSafe power banks are more expensive upfront but are designed to last over twice as long, providing long-term value and safety.
– Available in 5,000mAh and 10,000mAh models, they feature 15W wireless charging and 30W USB-C, but lack the latest Qi2.2 standard for faster wireless speeds.
– The products are currently sold out on BMX’s site but are expected to become available on Amazon in the US in January.
A new player in the mobile power market has launched, promising a safer and more durable alternative to traditional power banks. Founded by industry veteran Daniel Chin, the company BMX, which stands for Better Mobile Xperience, has introduced its SolidSafe line of power banks. Chin previously founded Sanho, the firm behind the popular Hyper-branded accessories for Apple devices, before its acquisition by Targus in 2021. The new products leverage what the company calls a semi-solid state battery technology, which offers significant safety and longevity benefits over conventional lithium-ion cells.
While BMX and its manufacturing partner Kuxiu use the term “solid state,” the batteries technically employ a solid-liquid mixed electrolyte. This hybrid approach provides key advantages: it is far more resistant to physical damage and thermal runaway, yet it can be produced using existing manufacturing infrastructure, helping to control costs. The power banks are priced approximately twice as high as standard models but are designed to last over twice as long, potentially offering better value over time. More importantly, they dramatically reduce the risks of fire, burns, or property damage associated with damaged traditional batteries.
The safety difference is stark. Videos demonstrate the SolidSafe batteries being drilled, bent, and cut without catching fire or exploding. In contrast, traditional lithium-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes violently ignite when subjected to the same abuse. This resilience makes them a compelling option for users concerned about battery safety in their bags or pockets.
The initial SolidSafe lineup includes 5,000mAh and 10,000mAh models, with prices starting at $79. A specialized 10,000mAh version features a built-in microSD card reader supporting up to 512GB of storage and retails for $129. All models offer 30W USB-C input and output for fast wired charging. A clever design touch integrates a USB-C cable directly into the attached lanyard. The main compromise is on the wireless charging front; they support the older 15W Qi2 MagSafe-compatible standard rather than the newer Qi2.2 protocol that allows for 25W speeds.
Currently listed as sold out on the BMX website, the SolidSafe power banks are expected to become available for purchase on Amazon in the United States beginning in January. This launch marks a significant step in bringing more robust battery technology from niche applications to everyday consumer electronics accessories.
(Source: The Verge)
