I bumped into Freeplay at MWC, who were showing off the ZipCharge portable recharging pack. The idea is simple – charge the high capacity battery pack before you leave (it takes about 15 minutes). When your mobile toys run out of juice, the ZipCharge can be used as an additional power supply to recharge them in the field.

It comes with a range of adapters to ensure compatibility with most phones and MP3 players out there (yes, that does include the iPod/iPhone). The best part though is it’s in-line charging ability. This means you can throw out your existing device charger and just use the ZipCharge in it’s place. While it’s charging your phone, it’s also charging itself. Then you take both phone and spare battery with you – what could be easier?

Interestingly, there is also a version in the works that has the capacity to handle laptop power duties. A laptop power supply that doubles as a second battery pack – there’s something to think about!

Price and availability not available yet, but you should see them on the shelves this year.