The present invention is directed to a fuel cell system with various features for optimal operations of an electronic device. The fuel cell system includes a fuel cartridge with a fuel reservoir containing fuel and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) or a stack. The fuel cartridge is selectively operatively associated with the electronic device to power the device. In one embodiment, the fuel cartridge may be received within a chamber in the electronic device. In another embodiment, the fuel cartridge may be operatively associated with the electronic device while external thereto.