The UK plug (for connecting to electrical outlets) is kind of big and awkward. Dating back to 1947, it may well be one of the safest standards for electrical outlets out there, but is beginning to look a little dated. With the increased use of electrical devices, it would be nice to see some improvement to the plug to make it a little more slimline. Indeed with portable electrical devices (such as laptops) the large size of the plug has become inconvenient – when I pack my backpack for work a little fuller than normal, I sometimes find myself leaving the plug outside (peaking out of the top!).
Of course with any new plug design, there is the problem of what to do with the existing sockets in the wall – rewiring a house for a new style of plug is a little unrealistic!
As it happens, someone has come up with a new design that looks pretty good. It is a foldable plug – itself not a new concept, but this one allows operation in either folded mode, or unfolded. So it can be used in a conventional outlet, or folded up and plugged into an adapter.
Unfortunately this product isn’t available as yet, but the rumour is that it should appear towards the end of 2010 … which we’re rapidly approaching! Keep an eye on the company’s website:- MadeInMind