Abstract: A mobile electronic device automatically receives an electrical charge from a proximate case that is equipped with a backup battery for the mobile device. The mobile device executes programming instructions that instruct its processor, when the mobile device is positioned proximate to the case, to identify a first trigger value and monitor a parameter of the mobile device to determine when the parameter reaches the first trigger value. Upon determining that the parameter reaches the first trigger value, the mobile device issue a command to cause a controller of the case to cause the case battery to discharge energy to the mobile device. The mobile device may also identify a second trigger value and issue a command to cause the controller to cause the case battery to stop discharging energy to the mobile device when the second trigger value is reached.

Abstract: Two wireless earbuds include controllers, receivers, transmitters and firmware. One earbud establishes a primary wireless communication connection to an electronic device such as a smart phone, and a secondary wireless communication connection to a second earbud. Power monitors, signal strength monitors, synchronized clocks, and power management hardware and/or software may trigger a switching condition to occur. Each switching condition causes the reversal of the roles of the first and second earbuds so as to increase the operating life of the paired earbuds before they need to be recharged by balancing their respective power consumption when in use. Each switching condition may also cause the reversal of the roles of the first and second earbuds so as to avoid the disconnection of communication with the electronic device and/or evenly distribute battery usage.