Mobile phone runs on a single AA battery

Due to begin shipping in March, the SpareOne phone from California-based XPAL Power is a dual-band GSM cell phone that offers up to 10 hours of talk time on just a single Alkaline, NiMH or Lithium AA battery.

We’ve seen a number of mobile phones launched in recent months with emergency use in mind, including the Russian Space phone with SOS button. SpareOne, however, is a new contender that focuses on a different aspect of emergency needs — power supply — and can run on just a single AA battery. Due to begin shipping in March, the SpareOne phone from California-based XPAL Power is a dual-band GSM cell phone that offers up to 10 hours of talk time on just a single Alkaline, NiMH or Lithium AA battery. With a built in emergency flashlight and the ability to automatically transmit its location via the cell ID, the phone can keep its charge for up to 15 years when not used, meaning it will always be ready when needed. Users can also preprogram the phone with important phone numbers for easy access to family members or travel and emergency services. Pricing will reportedly be USD 50. The video below demonstrates the SpareOne phone in use:

Debuted at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, the SpareOne phone will offer travel agents, hotels and companies opportunities to customize the device with preloaded phone numbers and bundle packages, XPAL says. For special events, branding possibilities will also be available. One to factor into your own 2012 marketing plans?