Anker unveiled its Solix Solar Beach Umbrella at CES 2025, designed to provide shade while charging devices through integrated solar technology. The umbrella incorporates next-generation perovskite solar cells, capable of producing up to 100W of total output via XT-60 and USB-C connections.
Anker unveils solar beach umbrella with advanced perovskite technology
Perovskite cells are considered a significant advancement over traditional silicon-based solar cells, offering 30% better performance in bright conditions and double the efficiency in low light. Current silicon solar cells achieve a maximum efficiency of around 24%, with theoretical limits near 30%. Anker’s technology can potentially achieve much higher efficiencies, especially when layered with silicon, reaching solar conversion efficiencies of up to 43% due to their ability to absorb different parts of the light spectrum.
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Despite the advancements, Anker has not disclosed specific details about its perovskite solar cells, such as their exact conversion efficiencies or life expectancy. This lack of transparency raises questions about the reliability of perovskite technology, particularly given its historical issues with longevity. The Solix Solar Beach Umbrella measures just over seven feet tall (215cm) with a six-foot, two-inch (190cm) diameter and features an IP67 rating for durability against sand and rain.
The umbrella is set for release before summer 2025, although Anker has not yet determined its price. Alongside the umbrella, Anker announced the Solix EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler, available in sizes of 23L, 40L, and 58L. This cooler boasts six-inch wheels for easy transport and a versatile fold-down tray, providing dual-zone fridge and freezer options only on the 58L model.
The EverFrost 2 employs air-cooled refrigeration, differentiating it from many competitors, but may result in increased noise and reduced power efficiency. The cooler can maintain cooling for up to 104 hours using two detachable 288Wh LFP batteries, which also serve as power banks with USB-C and USB-A charging options. The batteries can be charged via a 100W solar input, a 12V car socket, an AC wall jack, or USB-C connection. Pricing for the EverFrost 2 starts at $699 for the 23L model, $749 for the 40L, and $999 for the 58L, with preorders for the larger models commencing on February 21st.
Image credits: Anker
