S116 solar-powered cellphone a first

Fancy getting a cellphone that works nearly everywhere in the world despite the lack of a power outlet? Hi-Tech Wealth from China has just launched a handset that does exactly that – the S116 solar-powered cellphone. This cellphone comes with a microSD memory card slot and a 1.3 megapixel camera, with over 20 patents being filed in order to protect its intellectual property. One hour under direct sunlight will give you up to 40 minutes of talk time, but the S116 can also be charged in “weak light” such as candle light and indoor lighting as well. Currently, pre-orders for the S116 stand at 50,000 units despite the relatively high price of $510 a pop. There is no word on availability though, and we don’t know if it will ever reach the US.