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After a decade of research and countless false starts, solid-state batteries are officially mainstream. Several major smartphone and laptop manufacturers have launched flagship devices this quarter featuring the new technology, effectively rendering traditional lithium-ion batteries obsolete.
Solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte found in older batteries with a solid conductive material. This fundamental change yields three massive benefits: energy density is roughly doubled, charging times are cut in half, and the risk of the battery catching fire or exploding is virtually eliminated.
Consumers are already reaping the benefits. New laptops are hitting the market that weigh less than two pounds but boast 40 hours of battery life. Similarly, smartphones can now easily last three to four days on a single 15-minute charge. This leap in energy storage is expected to rapidly accelerate advancements in drones, wearables, and electric vehicles.