Docks provide an efficient and handy way of keeping your smartphone charged and well-connected. New models come equipped with a variety of features, and can consolidate the benefits of a wide range of accessories into one compact, handsome unit.

Virtually all phone docks combine two essential tasks: charging and syncing. By including a USB connector at the base of the device, docks provide an easy way of readying your phone for data transfer and charging, while also positioning it in a functional upright position. Using a dock also minimizes wear and tear on the USB port by ensuring a properly angled and stable connection.

Many docks also feature built in audio and video outputs, allowing for simple connection to external speakers, televisions, and home theater systems. Others feature built in speakers, ideal for music listening and hands-free talking alike. Various other models are designed to bring out the many functions of modern phones, with handy accessories like keyboards, wireless mouses and remotes, solar panels, and car mounts.

Docks provide an efficient and handy way of keeping your smartphone charged and well-connected. New models come equipped with a variety of features, and can consolidate the benefits of a wide range of accessories into one compact, handsome unit.

Virtually all phone docks combine two essential tasks: charging and syncing. By including a USB connector at the base of the device, docks provide an easy way of readying your phone for data transfer and charging, while also positioning it in a functional, upright position. Using a dock also minimizes wear and tear on the USB port by ensuring a properly angled and stable connection.

Audio and Video:

Most docks feature built in audio and video outputs, allowing for simple connection to external speakers, televisions, and home theater systems. Speaker docks from high-end audio companies like JBL prioritize high-fidelity sound, and are designed to provide an easy, handy way of amplifying mp3 content. Other, more compact models also function speaker-phone units, bringing the voice on the other end of the line into clear, full bodied audio, hands-free.

Alarm Clock Docks eliminate the need for a conventional alarm clock, and integrate many (if not all) of the features of other speaker docks. These models are particularly well-suited those who like to keep their phones close by and in sight all day and night, and don't want to worry about remembering to plug in a charger before bed.

Vehicle Docks, particularly in combination with a Bluetooth headset or stereo connection, provide the simplest and safest way of talking, charging, and listening to mp3 audio in the car. Model-specific offerings from Motorola and others initiate vehicle-specific display modes and driving-related apps upon connection, integrating all the benefits of a navigation system, mp3 player, and phone.

For those who treat their tablets and smartphones as PCs, Keyboard Docks add a new dimension of functionality and accessibility. Alongside conventional dock benefits like charging and syncing, keyboard docks allow for easy typing and internet navigation, and often include a wireless mouse and/or remote control, as well audio outputs.

And for those who don't want to rely on a typical electrical connection to keep their phones alive, Solar Docks offer a unique and environmentally-friendly way of charging and syncing. As their name suggests, solar docks feature one or more small solar panels, typically located at the base of the dock, that collect and store energy when exposed to sunlight. Solar docks can, for this reason, provide a sustainable source of charging energy for those who need to stay connected on trips deep into the wilderness, or for anyone looking to save a little on energy costs. Of course, sunlight isn't available at all times, so solar docks also include ports for conventional charging and syncing.