CES 2015: LifeProof debuts waterproof battery case, water and electricity mix

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LifeProof, the maker of insanely protective waterproof cases, has outdone itself at CES 2015 in Las Vegas with the announcement of the LifeProof fre, a case that is both waterproof and packs an extra battery for more power throughout the day.

The LifeProof fre will feel familiar for anyone who has used a LifeProof case before, with the original four-proof case that has protection against water, drops, dust and snow. It has a built-in screen protector, but still carries full access to all device features and functions.

The fre Power not only provides protection from the elements, LifeProof says, but can also help boost your battery if you run into a day without your Lightning cable or just need that extra boost, with an additional 2,600 mAh of battery power. LifeProof claims the case’s battery doubles the iPhone 6 battery life, while “smart charging technology” automatically shuts the case off when the device is fully charged.

I’m a little taken back that water and electricity are mixing here. The fre Power is said to be waterproof to 6.6 feet (2 meters) for one hour, drop proof up to 6.6 feet. Like other LifeProof cases, it’s also totally enclosed from dirt and snow when the case and all ports are sealed. “It meets military standards for shock and impact protection,” the company says.

“The addition of a waterproof power solution and universal accessory line take LifeProof’s industry-leading product lineup to a whole new level,” Pete Lindgren, LifeProof president and CEO, said. “fre Power and LifeActiv accessories allow you to harness the remarkable capabilities of the iPhone 6 and truly live without limits.”

LifeProof also announced a new accessory line-up.

  • Bike + Bar Mount – $39.99 – secures device to standard handlebars on bikes, motorcycles, jet skis and more;
  • Belt Clip – $29.99 – fastens at the hip, on a harness or backpack strap for immediate access to the device;
  • Multipurpose Mount – $29.99 – using screws or an industrial strength adhesive, fastens to walls, mirrors and nearly any smooth surface for hands-free viewing;
  • Suction Mount – $39.99 – great for transforming a smartphone into an in-vehicle navigation system, this element attaches to glass and other hard, non-porous surfaces to secure the device;

No word on pricing or availability for the fre Power.

[LifeProof]