New devices promise to consolidate charging needs, shrinking from the size of a phone
A recent wave of power strip designs aims to distill the tangle of adapters into a single, pocket-friendly unit. The Orico power strip, noted for its ability to fold down to roughly the dimensions of a smartphone, offers a blend of AC outlets and USB ports, addressing the growing demand for consolidated charging on the go. This development targets a specific user pain point: the proliferation of chargers for an increasing number of personal electronic devices.
The unit boasts multiple AC outlets alongside USB-A and USB-C ports. Specific configurations vary, with some models presenting as "8-in-1" solutions, incorporating up to four AC sockets and several USB inputs. A key feature highlighted is the GaN (Gallium Nitride) fast-charging technology for the USB-C ports, delivering up to 65W in some iterations. This capability is sufficient for rapidly charging modern smartphones, including high-end models like the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy Ultra S26, as well as handheld gaming consoles such as the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go S.
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Safety and Design Considerations
Integrated safety features are also a focus. Devices are reported to be FCC certified and UL tested, offering protection against short circuits, overheating, overcurrent, and overvoltage. The design includes a 45° ultra-thin flat plug, measuring approximately 0.43 inches. This slim profile is intended to allow the plug to fit behind furniture and to maximize the use of adjacent wall outlets. Some models incorporate a flat, 4-foot cord designed for neat storage.
A Niche Utility for Power Users
While the device addresses convenience, its utility for more demanding applications, such as directly powering or charging a USB-C laptop, may be limited. Reviews suggest that for users requiring high-wattage USB-C Power Delivery specifically for laptops, a dedicated charger might still be a necessary consideration. The convenience of integrated USB-C is acknowledged, but the actual power delivery for such tasks may not meet the requirements of all portable computing devices.
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Background
The proliferation of personal electronic devices—smartphones, tablets, portable gaming consoles, and wearable technology—has led to an ever-increasing array of chargers and adapters. This surge in individual power needs has spurred innovation in consolidated charging solutions. Early portable chargers primarily focused on battery packs. More recently, the market has seen a shift towards compact power strips that integrate multiple outlet types and charging technologies, aiming to reduce clutter and improve portability for travelers and digital nomads. The integration of GaN technology, known for its efficiency and smaller size compared to traditional silicon components, has been a significant enabler for these compact, high-power density designs.
