Review: XtremeMac InCharge Mobile battery case for iPhone 4

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

InCharge Mobile for the iPhone 4 from XtremeMac ($80.00) is a 2300mAh rechargeable battery pack and case that offers full protection while doubling iPhone 4 talk time. It includes a built-in viewing stand for watching videos and using FaceTime. we found it to be the one of the most impressive and reliable battery cases for the iPhone 4.

With hundreds of apps and many of which run in the background from multitasking, the iPhone 4's battery is constantly being drained. The fact is that the smarter phones get and the more they are able to do then the more battery they demand. Among today's smartphones, the iPhone 4 is one of the better devices for power management but its multifunctional nature is such that heavy users, specially those dabbling in multimedi or games, will need more than the current battery can offer.

InCharge Mobile also includes LED battery status indicators, an on/off switch for conserving battery and a micro USB cable for charging and syncing. All of these features are included in a low-profile design that encases the iPhone without adding bulk.

Here's a rundown of features.

FEATURES

• Form-fitting lightweight design with smooth touch finish
• 2300 mAh lithium polymer battery provides a full iPhone 4 charge
• Seamlessly integrated viewing stand for watching movies and using FaceTime
• Quick charge feature rapidly recharges battery pack in less than 4 hours
• On/Off switch to conserve battery when not in use
• Pass-through micro-USB port with included cable for charging and syncing
• Quick recharge feature reduces the amount of time to charge battery from zero to full

Our previous battery case was the Mophie Juice Air for iPhone 4 Case, which worked fine for about four months before it inexplicably failed. Attempts to get a replacement from Mophie were unsuccessful.

The XtremeMac InCharge Mobile battery case is completely ruggedized and covered in rubber. The aesthetic is austere, serious but extremely well finished and reminds us a little bit of the styling one sees on Jeeps or Humvee's.

During our two-month test, the InCharge Mobile Battery case enabled our heavily used iPhone 4 to last two and a half days between charges. This is with both 3G and WiFi on and with us using the device for streaming webcasts, mail, some gaming, a number of photos during the day and calls and messaging.

The case does add bulk to the iPhone 4 but at the same time it provides all-around protection and far better grip than a naked iPhone 4. We got used to the extra bulk right away.

For travelers or frequent users of the iPhone 4 to watch video, the InCharge Mobile battery case offers a neat viewing stand that tilts the iPhone 4 for perfect hands-free viewing. We were extremely satisfied with the performance, design and the functionality of the InCharge Mobile battery and found it to be a great accessory specially when travelling. Users who use the iPhone 4 just as a phone and who don't use too many apps should be fine with the standard  built-in battery but for heavy users who need more juice. the $80.00 for the XtremeMac InCharge Mobile battery case is a sound investment.

Rating: 5 out of 5