Review: Seidio Innocell extended Battery

One of the most frequent questions I receive about mobile phones is “how is the battery life”? Like money, you can never have enough battery. I began using an AT&T Tilt when it was first released last October, and found the battery life with Windows Mobile 6 to be adequate but not outstanding. I usually need to put it on the charger around 4pm to be able to get through the rest of my workday. For my experiences, I’m using Exchange push email as well as Twitter texts.

One very well-known company that provides accessories for many Windows Mobile phones is Seidio. In my quest to find an extended battery for my Tilt, I had two criteria: Keep the same form factor, and give me enough power to get through the day, I found the Seidio Innocell battery to fit my needs nicely. While the stock Tilt battery was only 1350 mAh, the Seidio battery measures in at 1600 mAh (15% more capacity) while keeping the exact same dimensions and without making the Tilt any bulkier than it already is.

Out of the package, there are two noteworthy differences between the stock and the Seidio. First, the metal backing plate on the stock battery does not exist on the Innocell. There have been several internet debates about the purpose of the plate and whether its absence could have negative consequences. I myself have noticed no differences in heat or signal quality in the months I’ve been using this battery. Second, the Seidio battery is noticeably lighter. I’m not sure why (maybe it’s the omission of the metal backing plate), but it’s a welcome reduction to my Tilt.

I charged the battery for about 12 hours to ensure that it was fully charged. New batteries often take several cycles to fully realize their true capacity. After about a week of the same usage patterns, I found that the Seidio battery was able to get me through my 10 hour workday consistently. I usually get about 50 emails per workday on my phone in addition to 200 SMS tweets, several short phone calls, and reading all of my RSS feeds in my reader. The Tilt had no issues recognizing the battery, and battery level readings seem to be accurate. I was able to fully charge the battery using the AC charger as well as an external battery charger/cradle I have.

The Seidio Innocell battery is available from the Mobility Today Online Store for $44.95. If you’re in need of a second battery for your Tilt, the Seidio offers increased capacity, reduced weight, and an affordable price. It gives me the capability to make it through my workday without finding a charger, and is a great addition to the Tilt.