The Finnish company, Suntrica has created a nicely compact solar charger for the iPod and iPhone. Attach the portable SolarStrap to your messenger bag, bike, belt or coat and it will charge itself while you go about your daily travels. You can then connect it to your iPod or iPhone (certified for iPhone4) when those energy-hogging gadgets need recharging.

The charger stores the solar energy it gathers on an internal battery for instantaneous later use. You can also charge the SolarStrap by plugging it directly into the wall, and by USB via your computer. The splash-proof charger weighs 65 grams and is the size of a small wallet. The charger is RoHS compatible, and manufactured with PVC-free and halogen-free materials and processes. One hour of charging in full sunlight will provide roughly 20 minutes of talk time. A full 8 hour charge will allow you about 2.5 hours of yapping on the phone.

Suntrica offers several models of small solar chargers that are compatible with a wide variety of small gadgets and devices – one drawback – the SolarStrap products are not currently sold in the USA. You’ll have to purchase the charger from one of Suntrica’s international dealers.