Smart benches in Boston let you recharge your phone

Bostonians can now recharge their batteries literally and figuratively whilst exploring the city, thanks to the introduction of "smart benches" which can be used to charge phones and provide data about air and noise pollution.

The solar-powered benches, called "Soofas," can charge up to two devices at a time for free and are being installed in locations across Boston throughout July.

The city is inviting residents to suggest locations for the benches, which were officially unveiled at the White House Maker Faire at the end of June.

The brainchild of "Changing Environments Inc.", an all-female MIT Media Lab spin-off, the "smart urban furniture" pieces are designed to get people "out of their homes and into a smarter and more sustainable city."

The first dozen units are set to appear in playgrounds, parks and on sports fields, and each bench will be given a name which the public can choose.

The benches hook up to Verizon's 4G LTE network to connect wirelessly to the internet and upload location-based environmental information.

Smart public furniture is fast becoming big business, with coffee giant Starbucks announcing complementary cable-free smartphone and tablet recharging for its customers in partnership with Duracell Powermat earlier this year.

To suggest a Soofa location, visit http://maps.cityofboston.gov/bench/ by July 11.