This ultra compact battery, super flat and discreet will troubleshoot when no power outlet "at hand". Before that, it will charge the battery via a USB cable provided by connecting the latter to a computer; 2 to 3 hours will be required. You can see the charging status through four small blue lights that flash during charging and remain lit after the latter completed. The cable that is connected to the mobile phone is hidden on the side of the battery and happens to be very short (remains to be seen if over time it will not end up breaking through being twisted when the load of laptop). It took about three hours (yes, still ...) to charge my smartphone. The battery recharging was good after that, so she will make the service really but ad hoc, for emergencies. She easily held in a pocket of pants or coat ......... unless you forget beside the computer !!!!