QuickerTek has released an updated external battery/charger for the 17-inch aluminum-unibody MacBook Pro. The device powers and recharges the notebook, with a claimed battery life extension between 11.5 hours and 18 hours before the internal battery is used. The device is also designed for 1,000 full recharge cycles, according to the company.

The Boston-Power Sonata Li-ion polymer cells are 25-percent more dense than the company's previous models, bringing the total weight to three pounds. Users can plug the unit into 120-volt or 240-volt AC power, while a European power adapter is also available.

The external battery/charger for the 17-inch aluminum MacBook Pro is now available and carries a price of $500.