Solid-state batteries with 100 times more energy density can be used in Apple devices

But always be wary of groundbreaking battery claims. It seems like almost every year researchers will announce some amazing new technology that makes it possible to charge a MacBook once a month - then we never see or hear about it again.

In this particular case, it seems TDK has gone a little further in the process – actually developing the material, although no batteries use it yet.

The immediate goal seems to be for smaller devices.

TDK Corporation (TSE:6762) has successfully developed materials for CeraCharge, a next-generation solid-state battery with an energy density of 1,000 Wh/L, approximately 100 times greater than the energy density of conventional solid-state batteries. usually from TDK.

TDK's technology aims for a solution that can be used in a variety of wearable devices, such as wireless headphones, hearing aids, and even smartwatches.

It remains unclear whether this technology will make its way into Apple devices, with AirTag likely the most likely candidate in the short term. It is designed to be used as a replacement for the button cell battery used in the AirTag. Currently, these are non-rechargeable and last about an hour.

However, new EU regulations require brands to phase out disposable batteries in favor of rechargeable batteries, and that's exactly what TDK is planning to develop here.

Since the batteries can be recharged, that could potentially allow them to be used in other Apple devices, like AirPods and the Apple Watch.

However, the most interesting for any long-life battery technology will be its use on larger devices: iPhone, iPad, MacBook and Vision Pro. However, as always, we still have to wait patiently.

Marvin Fry

Update 19 June 2024