If you are a regular reader of this site, chances are that your Windows Phone isn’t the only gadget you keep around. For gadget lovers, getting your device battery charged is one of the few limitations that constrain our phones. On this site we’ve reviewed portable battery chargers, solar chargers, etc; but we’ve never seen anything quite like The Sanctuary from BlueLounge.
Design
The Sanctuary is designed to enable you to charge several devices at once without having to track down changers and unused power outlets for each. This is accomplished by having a single power supply outputting power to several popular connectors simultaneously. The connectors themselves include microUSB, miniUSB, and several proprietary connectors for iPod, Sony Ericsson, LG, Palm, Samsung (A and B), and Nokia (A and B). In my testing, I was able to simultaneously charge an AT&T Tilt2, Samsung BlackJack, Blackjack 2, Plantronics Voyager Pro, and an iPod Nano.
If for some reason your device is not supported by the built in connectors, there are a couple of options. A standard USB port is built into the power supply, so if your device is capable of charging off of USB this can be accomplished very easily. Secondly, other cables can be routed in through the same path as the power cable for The Sanctuary itself. Lastly, BlueLounge has an array of adapters that allow you to charge an impressive variety of gadgets.
Quality
The form factor of The Sanctuary is similar to a valet that is often used for storing keys, wallet, watch or other items that would be carried on a daily basis. The base of The Sanctuary contains all of the power cables and such, which can be routed through a false bottom for use. This design allows any unused connectors to be easily hidden, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance.
From a purely physical standpoint, I can’t really find anything about The Sanctuary to complain about. I am slightly concerned about power utilization when there are several devices charging at once, but I didn’t experience any issues while testing that would cause me to raise an alarm.
Conclusion
I always find it interesting when a company takes design principles and creates something to serve a purpose through the eyes of an artist. BlueLounge is a company that does this well across a variety of products.
The Sanctuary is definitely a boon to anyone who regularly uses several devices. At a price of $129.95 (a “Premium” model is also available in a dark wood color for $149.95), the question of how much this particular product with help you definitely comes into play. If you like the concept but need something a little smaller, be sure to check out the BlueLounge Refresh.
