Splashpower and powerbeam work differently. Splash power recharges devices wirelessly in a way that is more useful than powerbeam. I've been waiting a long time to get splashpower in my phone, ipod, etc but still no sign of it :(

I'm guessing Splashpower uses electromagnetic induction.

The advantage of lasers is that they work over longer distances, and can therefore can be used in situations where Splashpower couldn't - i.e., powering a whole room full of laptops.