The i4+ Universal Charging Station ($80) is IDAPT’s latest multi-device charging base. The black plastic unit has three charging stations on top, and includes five interchangeable tips: one Lightning, one Dock Connector, two micro-USB, and one mini-USB. You simply plug in the ones you need, connect your accessories, and let them charge. Additional tips can be purchased separately.
There’s also a USB port on the side, which allows you to charge a fourth device, with your own cable. A wall adapter is included. Updated October 17, 2013: We’ve opted not to fully review i4+ for the time being, for reasons detailed below.
During testing of i4+, we’ve noted a number of oddities that appear to be attributable to IDAPT’s use of unlicensed Lightning connectors. First, it’s important to note that there are differences between the Lightning tips that come with the set or are sold separately.
The former is labeled “iPhone/Lightning,” and has a slightly raised plug that allows for greater but not complete case compatibility. The other, available for $19, simply says “Lightning,” and isn’t raised, so it won’t work with cases. Occasionally, plugging in an iOS 7 device will prompt warning text to appear, but not every time; it’ll still charge regardless. There were unexplained differences between the charging rates we saw with connected Lightning devices, as well.
