While rechargeable AA batteries and the associated chargers don't really seem to be a hot topic nowadays, Energizer has a slightly different opinion on the matter, since they've just released the Intelligent Charger, a battery charger that manages to seriously up the ante in this segment.

The device comes equipped with an easy-to-read Digital Countdown Clock that tells you exactly how many hours are left until the batteries are fully charged and ready to go.

Added to that, the Energizer Intelligent Charger comes with a Digital Fuel Gauge which indicates how full your battery is - so you have a much clearer idea of how long your batteries will last.

Of course, the device also sports a built-in Overcharge Protection system that automatically shuts off the device once the batteries are fully powered, meaning one will maximise the number of times they can charge the batteries.

Energizer's Intelligent Charger incorporates a Battery Indicator which detects whether the battery is good or bad, so you know exactly when to buy new ones.

Its clever technology can also detect a non-NiMH battery (such as alkaline) and shut of the charging.

The Energizer Intelligent Charger re-fuels two or four AA or AAA batteries at any one time and is suitable for worldwide voltage.

It can fully charge four AA or AAA batteries in 6 to 8 hours.

Energizer hasn't provided specific pricing details for the Intelligent Charger, but it's quite likely that we won't have to wait too long to find out more on this topic, given the fact that these products should arrive in stores across Europe in the near future.