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In a surprising move, Microsoft today announced a new technology which is supposed to "redefine the way you insert batteries", according to Engadget.
According to the press release, the new technology essentially tries to simplify the way batteries are currently used - usually, you have to figure out which way they go. The new technology, called "Instaload" disregards positive or negative polarity, and Microsoft says it "simply works". The technology is intended for use in devices that "require frequent battery swap-outs, are used in less-than-ideal environments or use several batteries".
The technology is simply hot swapable batteries, that allow you to change batteries quickly without a second thought, and will support a large range of battery sizes and types, including standard batteries and rechargeable batteries. It especially targets those annoying, fiddly, barrel batteries of the AA, AAA, C and D sizes.
Microsoft says that the Instaload technology could benefit those involved in law enforcement, military, construction, outdoor sporting and camping, as well as improve normal end user devices, such as battery chargers, digital cameras and toys. The company even has partners on board, naming Duracell, AE light and Black Diamond among the launch partners. In addition to this, the license is granted royalty-free for suppliers and manufacturers of accessibility products.