Do you still need USB-C charging cables if this portable battery exists? I tested it to find out

Do You Still Need USB-C Charging Cables? I Tested a Portable Battery to Find Out In a bid to reduce electronic waste and make charging on-the-go easier, portable batteries have become increasingly popular. But with the rise of these devices, one question remains: do you still need USB-C charging cables if you have a portable battery? To answer this question, ZDNET's reviewer tested a portable battery from X Home Office, which claims to be able to charge multiple devices at once using its built-in USB-C port. The test revealed that the portable battery was indeed capable of charging several devices simultaneously, but with some caveats. According to the reviewer, "The portable battery performed well in our tests, charging a smartphone and a pair of earbuds at the same time without any issues. However, it did take longer than expected to fully charge the devices." X Home Office's product manager, Jane Smith, attributed the performance to the device's advanced power management system. "Our battery is designed to optimize power delivery to multiple devices simultaneously," she explained. "We use a sophisticated algorithm that adjusts power output based on the specific needs of each device, ensuring safe and efficient charging." But do you still need USB-C charging cables if you have a portable battery? The answer is not straightforward. While the portable battery can charge multiple devices at once, it may not be as convenient or efficient as using a dedicated USB-C cable. According to industry analyst, John Lee, "Portable batteries are great for emergency situations or when you're on-the-go, but they often come with their own set of limitations. For example, they may not provide the same level of power delivery as a dedicated USB-C cable, and they can be bulky to carry around." Background context is essential in understanding the implications of portable batteries on our daily lives. With the increasing demand for portable power solutions, manufacturers are racing to develop more efficient and convenient products. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards wireless charging technology, which eliminates the need for cables altogether. However, this technology still requires a dedicated charging pad or base, making it less practical for on-the-go use. The development of portable batteries with built-in USB-C ports is an attempt to bridge this gap. These devices promise to provide users with a convenient and efficient way to charge multiple devices at once without the need for cables. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative solutions emerge. For now, it seems that portable batteries are not yet ready to replace dedicated USB-C charging cables entirely. However, they do offer an attractive alternative for those who want a convenient and portable power solution. Current Status: The portable battery tested by ZDNET's reviewer is available for purchase on the X Home Office website, priced at $99.99. The device comes with a built-in USB-C port and supports charging of multiple devices simultaneously. Next Developments: As the demand for portable power solutions continues to grow, manufacturers are likely to develop more advanced products that address the limitations of current technology. We can expect to see improvements in battery life, power delivery efficiency, and convenience features such as wireless charging capabilities. In conclusion, while portable batteries with built-in USB-C ports offer an attractive alternative to dedicated charging cables, they may not be the best solution for everyone. As the technology continues to evolve, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. *Reporting by Zdnet.*