When you place your smartphone on a bench, "automatic charging" begins—The reason why the new urban infrastructure, "charging benches," is spreading worldwide.

1. Why the "Just Place to Charge" Experience Went Viral

The recent buzz was sparked by a post from a certain X user who encountered a bench at the "Railway Site Promenade" in Chofu City, Tokyo. Although it looked like an ordinary bench, a black line ran across part of the seat, and there was a lightning bolt symbol at the end. Skeptically placing a smartphone on it, the user was surprised when it actually started charging. This post went viral, with people commenting, "It's like magic" and "Incredibly convenient." NEWSjp

What makes this interesting is the lack of conspicuous machinery or outlets typical of "charging spots."
The charging function is "integrated" into the everyday tool of a bench, which is why the initial shock is so significant.

And this experience doesn't just end as a "novel facility."
Now that smartphones have become lifelines, being able to charge them while out and about equates to peace of mind. It's meaningful not only for tourists and commuters but also during disasters, and it's beginning to be seen as an "infrastructure invention." NEWSjp

2. What Kind of Bench? The Secret is "Solar Power + Storage + Wireless Charging"

The bench that became the talk of the town was identified as a product by the outdoor goods manufacturer "Kotobuki," and the company explained its specifications in an interview. NEWSjp

There are three key points.

(1) Generates electricity with solar power and stores it internally

The bench is designed with solar panels on the seat (or part of it) to generate electricity from sunlight during the day and store it in an internal battery. It is "off-grid," requiring no wiring work, and is intended to be installed in locations with direct sunlight (e.g., conditions like six or more hours of sunlight per day, including noon). eX

(2) Equipped with "Contactless Charging (Qi)" that requires no cables

This is the so-called wireless charging. For compatible smartphones (iPhone and many Androids), charging begins just by placing them in the designated spot. NEWSjp+2eX+2

(3) Also designed as a "minimum power source" during disasters

The manufacturer clearly states the purpose of ensuring communication means even when power supply is stopped due to blackouts. The design aims for both everyday comfort and resilience (recovery ability) during emergencies. NEWSjp+1

3. The Specs of "E-Fline Charge#" (What It Can and Cannot Do)

According to the interview article, the bench can generally charge one device at a time. It targets wireless charging-compatible models, but may not respond depending on the shape, even with a case. The charging speed is "standard," not dramatically fast. NEWSjp

Additionally, if the battery is fully charged, it is indicated that it can fully charge a smartphone multiple times (e.g., about four devices from 0% to 100%). NEWSjp

Regarding the price, the article introduces it as "around 300,000 yen without a backrest / around 350,000 yen with a backrest." NEWSjp
The official product page also confirms variations ranging from about 290,000 yen to 370,000 yen including tax (depending on specifications, color, installation method, etc.). townscape.kotobuki.co.jp

As of December 2025, about 30 units are installed nationwide according to the manufacturer's explanation. This means it's not yet at the stage of being "everywhere," and finding one is still a "lucky" encounter with a relatively new infrastructure. NEWSjp

4. How to Use It: Simple but with "Tricks"

For those who find it for the first time, here are steps to avoid failure.

Steps

1. Look for the lightning mark (charging position)

2. Place the smartphone (align it as centrally as possible)

3. Check if the charging mark appears

4. If charging doesn't start,shift it a few centimeters and place it again(there is a compatibility with the coil position)

Check When It Doesn't Work Well

• The device itself is not Qi-compatible

• Weak response with thick cases/metal part cases/ring cases

• The smartphone's placement is misaligned

• The bench's battery is low, or insufficient sunlight for charging

5. Why Can It Charge Just by Placing? (Basics of Qi)

Qi wireless charging is based on "magnetic induction," where coils on the transmitting side (bench) and receiving side (smartphone) convert the magnetic field created by the transmitting side into electricity. Wireless Power Consortium

That's why "distance and position" are crucial.
The closer and more aligned the coils are, the more efficient the charging, while misalignment can lead to unstable charging or prevent it from starting altogether.

6. Things to Be Careful About Behind the Convenience (Safety, Security, Manners)

"Convenience" doesn't mean "no need to think about anything." Public charging benches require a bit more attention than home charging.

(1) Do Not Place Metal Objects

Wireless charging can generate heat, and metal objects (keys, coins, accessories, etc.) in between can cause overheating or interference. Apple also advises avoiding metal objects during wireless charging. Apple Support

(2) "Leaving It" Increases Theft Risk

Placing a smartphone on a bench increases the risk of it being taken the moment your gaze is averted.
The most dangerous time is when you're excitedly taking photos or videos, thinking "It's charging!" Keep it close to your body and use it within a distance where you can lightly touch it with your hand.

(3) What About "Information Security" in Public Charging?

Wired public USBs are often discussed for the risk of "juice jacking" (attacks via USB). Government agencies and security companies have issued warnings. SOPHOS+1
In that regard, wireless charging is sometimes considered to have a smaller attack surface than USB ports because it doesn't directly connect data lines (though risks like theft, peeking, and shoulder surfing for PINs remain). Jagwire+1

(4) The "One Device Only" Issue and Manners

Since the number of devices that can be charged simultaneously is limited, it's important to share when it's crowded.
Since it's also a "place to sit," occupying it for long periods for charging can easily lead to friction. Setting time limits, sharing after a bit of charging—whether this culture takes root will be key to its spread.

7. Why "Charging Benches" Are Increasing Worldwide Now

Reason (1) Smartphones Have Become "Essential Items" and "Urban Lifelines"

Maps, payments, transportation, translation, communication, disaster information.
For travelers, especially, a dead smartphone battery equals being cut off from urban functions.

Reason (2) They Become Devices for Creating "Urban Safety"

Manufacturers are strongly conscious of "lifelines during disasters." When outlets can't be used due to blackouts, having even a small place to charge can increase the chances of communication, information gathering, and rescue requests. NEWSjp+1

Reason (3) They Easily Become "Visible Outcomes" of Smart Cities

Smart cities often end with "What changed?" if residents don't feel the impact.
On the other hand, charging benches have an intuitive effect. "You can tell immediately by using them," making them easy to explain as initiatives by governments and companies.

8. Not Just Japan: The Global Situation of "Smart Benches"

Similar ideas exist overseas.

• For example, products that operate on solar power and allow wireless charging just by placing them on a bench are being introduced (with various configurations such as USB ports). Bridgestone Global Website