Apple is Evaluating the Possibility of Solar-Powered Products

Apple is evaluating the possible market for solar-powered consumer products, according to a DigiTimes report.

Samsung and Apple have been evaluating the possible niche market for solar-powered consumer products and considering the inclusion of Taiwan-based solar firms in their respective supply chains. However, according to Taiwan-based solar firms, these niche markets will need a longer time to develop. Samsung's solar-powered netbook adopts a unique sized solar cell, added industry sources, and the number of solar cells used is less than rooftop solar systems, hence it is unlikely for solar-powered consumer products to form a solid market in the short term.

This report is particularly interesting following a WSJ article that said Apple is experimenting with a new way of charging the iPhone 5. Initially it was thought that the WSJ was referring to WiTricity Wireless Charging; however, it's possible that Apple is looking at solar-powered charging as well.