My friend Roland Piquepaille in his Technology Trends blog reveals that Motorola have patented a liquid crystal display (LCD) that incorporates a solar panel beneath the display. The idea is that solar power is to be harnessed to extend the life of a battery before it needs charging again.

Other companies have tried to incorporate solar panels in tandem with a LCD, but they have failed. Motorola seems to have an idea that is a little different to the others and therefore potential success.

But don't hold your breath for a solar-powered phone. I think this is perhaps something a telephone company can aspire to providing all those people who do not have access to electricity to power a phone. It is highly likely if a solar-powered phone can be built that it would be a boon to people in african countries that do not have access to power.