If your idea of a perfect beach day includes lounging in the shade with a refreshing drink in hand while scrolling through your phone, then some exciting news awaits! At CES, Anker Solix unveiled an innovative Solar Beach Umbrella along with a new electric cooler named the EverFrost 2. These products promise to significantly enhance your comfort during the hot summer months.

While outdoor umbrellas equipped with solar technology are not entirely new to the market, many existing models feature small, limited solar panels primarily used to power built-in lights. Anker takes a different approach by equipping its umbrella with solar panels that cover its entire canopy, delivering a remarkable maximum solar input of 100W, comparable to standard solar panels. Impressively, Anker claims that these panels are capable of generating 200% of their expected energy output in low-light conditions (20,000 lux) and 130% under bright sunlight (50,000 lux). This means that the umbrella is capable of harnessing solar energy even on overcast days.

Credit: Anker Solix

So, what can be powered with all that energy? Likely, you’ll recharge your smartphone, or perhaps your portable speaker. However, Anker also envisions users connecting various power stations from its product line for an even greater energy boost. Furthermore, the energy harvested by the umbrella can be directed to the EverFrost 2 cooler, ensuring that your food and drinks remain refreshingly chilled. The cooler is capable of lasting 52 hours on its own battery, which means that you only need the umbrella to supply energy for extended beach trips. The umbrella is equipped with XT-60 and USB-C ports, while the cooler doubles as a power bank, offering charging options of 60W via USB-C and 12W using USB-A.

Standing at 84 inches tall with a diameter of 74 inches, this umbrella provides ample shade for several beach-goers. The solar panels boast an IP67 rating for waterproofing, coupled with specialized sunshade fabric designed to minimize heat underneath. However, Anker has not disclosed the weight of the cooler or umbrella, which is a notable omission, considering the potential difficulties of transporting these items to the beach due to the added battery weight. It seems more likely that the umbrella may serve as a versatile power source on your patio instead.

Anker Solix has established itself as a leader in battery technology, offering a diverse range of products from compact portable chargers to extensive home backup solutions. Their offerings also include a variety of solar generators paired with corresponding solar panels. While solar energy has traditionally been seen as a method to power outdoor devices lacking electrical access, advancements in technology now make solar a more reliable option. This progress results in outstanding performance for solar panels, such as those on outdoor security cameras that maintain efficiency even during prolonged cloudy periods. Despite attempts by other umbrella and cooler brands to incorporate solar energy, results have often fallen short due to reliability issues—specifically in the solar panel technology area where Anker Solix excels.

This innovation also hints at the future trajectory of solar energy usage. The evolution of smart plugs showcases how a simple device can transition everyday items into “smart” products. As we continue incorporating smart technology into devices, the integration of solar panels can diminish the dependency on bulky power stations. Picture a scenario where cumbersome power banks are unnecessary, and only the devices equipped with built-in solar power accompany you. The potentials of this technology open intriguing possibilities, perhaps suggesting the development of patio furniture that could either heat in the winter or cool during the summer.

The Anker Solix Beach Umbrella is set to launch this summer, with further pricing details yet to be revealed. Meanwhile, the EverFrost 2 is slated for release on February 21 and will be available in three different sizes starting at a price of $699.