Digital Phablet

Tag: Battery

  • Scientists Create Safer Ultra-Fast Charging Battery to Prevent Lithium Plating

    Scientists Create Safer Ultra-Fast Charging Battery to Prevent Lithium Plating

    A new battery design approach developed by researchers in South Korea may address one of the biggest hurdles facing electric vehicles: how to charge batteries significantly faster without compromising safety or battery lifespan.

    As the popularity of electric vehicles, portable electronics, and renewable energy systems grows, so does the need for lithium-ion batteries that can recharge in just minutes.

    However, rapid charging introduces serious complications. One major issue is the formation of metallic lithium on the battery’s anode—a process known as lithium plating. This unwanted lithium buildup hampers battery performance, shortens its lifespan, and in extreme cases, can cause overheating or dangerous failures.

    To mitigate these risks, scientists have been exploring better materials for battery anodes. High-voltage anode materials have gained attention because they are less prone to lithium plating and can develop more stable protective layers during charging. Unfortunately, many of these materials have drawbacks such as sluggish lithium-ion movement and poor long-term stability under tough operating conditions.

    A research team led by Associate Professor Dongwook Han from Seoul National University of Science and Technology has now devised a solution to these limitations. Their research was published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials.

    The team concentrated on a material called lithium titanium phosphate, which features a NASICON crystal structure widely recognized for its stability, heat resistance, and high ionic conductivity. Instead of altering the entire material, the researchers made a subtle chemical adjustment by increasing the phosphorus content relative to titanium—creating an “off-stoichiometric” composition.

    This slight modification led to the formation of tiny titanium phosphate regions near the surface of each particle. These surface areas proved crucial because they provided more accessible pathways for lithium ions during charging, reducing the energy barrier for ion movement. Additionally, this surface structure remained flexible enough to accommodate the slight expansions and contractions associated with battery cycling, helping prevent permanent damage.

    The results were striking. During fast-charging tests, the newly engineered anode retained about 86% of its initial capacity even when charged at a demanding rate of 10C—meaning a full charge in approximately six minutes. In comparison, traditional versions of the material experienced more significant capacity loss under the same conditions.

    Furthermore, the new material demonstrated excellent durability, maintaining performance over 250 charge-and-discharge cycles. When paired with high-voltage cathodes in complete battery cells, it continued to deliver outstanding fast-charging capabilities and broad compatibility.

    The researchers believe their strategy could extend beyond current lithium-ion batteries, potentially benefiting next-generation all-solid-state batteries. If successfully implemented, this advancement could make electric vehicles more practical by drastically reducing charging times, while also enhancing safety, longevity, and the overall reliability of energy storage systems that power renewable energy sources.

  • Hidden Battery Flaw May Secretly Reduce Electric Car Lifespan

    Hidden Battery Flaw May Secretly Reduce Electric Car Lifespan

    Electric vehicles continue to gain popularity each year, with improved batteries playing a crucial role in making them more affordable and practical. One of the most promising advancements involves high-nickel batteries that avoid using cobalt, a costly and hard-to-source mineral. These next-generation batteries can hold more energy, extending the driving range of electric cars at a lower cost.

    However, new research from Hanyang University in South Korea has uncovered a surprising issue that could reduce the lifespan of these advanced batteries even before they hit the road. Published in Energy and Environmental Science, the study reveals that exposing battery materials to air during manufacturing can cause hidden damage that accelerates battery degradation over time.

    The researchers focused on materials used to create high-nickel cathodes, which are key components in lithium-ion batteries. These cathodes often contain manganese, added to enhance stability and protect the battery during operation. They discovered that when the precursor materials used in making these cathodes are stored in areas exposed to air, the surface manganese begins to react with oxygen. Although this reaction is tiny and difficult to observe, it creates microscopic imperfections in the material.

    These hidden defects make the battery’s chemistry more reactive once in use. During charging and discharging cycles, the damaged surfaces can cause the liquid electrolyte inside the battery to break down. Additionally, metal particles can dissolve, leading to harmful reactions with the graphite anode. Collectively, these issues cause the battery to lose its storage capacity much more quickly than expected.

    The study showed that batteries made from air-exposed materials experienced nearly twice the capacity loss over time compared to those manufactured under more controlled conditions. On a positive note, the team discovered a straightforward solution: by adding a small amount of extra lithium during the manufacturing process, they could prevent the surface defects from forming. This simple adjustment helped restore stable chemical bonds between manganese and oxygen, significantly improving the cathode’s durability.

    Laboratory testing of these improved batteries demonstrated that they could retain over 90% of their original capacity even after extended use, marking a substantial leap in long-term performance. The findings suggest that manufacturers might not need costly new coatings or major factory overhauls to produce longer-lasting batteries. Instead, paying close attention to how raw materials are stored before production and fine-tuning the amount of lithium added during manufacturing could make a big difference in battery lifespan.

    This research underscores an important point for the battery industry: while moving away from cobalt is a vital goal, understanding how other materials like manganese behave during manufacturing is equally essential. Better control of these hidden chemical changes could help future electric vehicles travel farther, last longer, and offer more reliable energy storage for renewable power systems.

    The study was conducted by researchers at Hanyang University and published in Energy and Environmental Science.

  • Scientists Develop Smart Battery Material to Prevent Energy Loss

    Scientists Develop Smart Battery Material to Prevent Energy Loss

    Lithium-sulfur batteries have long been considered one of the most promising innovations for future energy storage solutions. They can hold significantly more energy compared to current lithium-ion batteries and utilize sulfur, an abundant and cost-effective material.

    However, a major obstacle has hindered their widespread adoption.

    Researchers from Tohoku University have now developed a new material designed to address this challenge, bringing lithium-sulfur batteries closer to mainstream use. Their study, published in the journal Small, features a specially engineered layer composed of a covalent organic framework (COF) combined with graphene.

    This innovative layer enhances the battery’s efficiency and longevity. Lithium-sulfur batteries generate power through a sequence of chemical reactions. During operation, sulfur transforms into various forms before reverting during charge cycles. This process enables these batteries to store much more energy than most smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

    Unfortunately, one of the sulfur compounds produced—lithium polysulfides—can dissolve into the battery’s liquid electrolyte. These particles tend to drift to other regions within the battery, causing unwanted side reactions, reducing the amount of available sulfur, lowering capacity, and shortening lifespan. This issue, known as the “polysulfide shuttle,” has been a significant barrier to developing practical lithium-sulfur batteries.

    Rather than trying to merely block these particles, the research team designed a material capable of capturing, guiding, and facilitating the normal chemical reactions of these sulfur compounds within the battery.

    The new material integrates two advanced components. The first is a covalent organic framework, or COF—a lightweight, highly ordered structure made from precisely arranged molecules with tiny, uniform pores. Its controlled architecture allows it to selectively interact with specific chemicals inside the battery. The second is graphene, a form of carbon renowned for its exceptional electrical conductivity. When combined, these materials form a thin layer that traps problematic sulfur compounds while still enabling rapid electron flow.

    Laboratory tests yielded promising results. Batteries incorporating this layer demonstrated high energy storage capabilities, maintained performance during rapid charging and discharging, and remained reliable after over 1,000 cycles. The team also assembled a larger pouch-style battery using the same technology, proving its potential for real-world applications.

    Each component of the new material performs a vital role. Some sections attract lithium ions, others facilitate their movement, and certain areas accelerate the key chemical reactions during charging and discharging. Rather than functioning as a mere filter, this layer actively manages and optimizes the battery’s internal chemistry.

    The scientists emphasize that their work exemplifies how molecular-level material design can significantly enhance battery performance. If ongoing testing continues to show favorable results, this approach could lead to lighter, longer-lasting batteries with much higher energy capacities.

    Such advancements might enable electric vehicles to travel farther on a single charge, extend the runtime of portable electronics, and improve the efficiency of renewable energy storage systems.

  • Scientists find easier method to produce rare silicon for next-gen batteries

    Scientists find easier method to produce rare silicon for next-gen batteries

    Scientists have identified a simpler method to produce a rare form of silicon that could enhance batteries and electronic devices while cutting manufacturing expenses. This breakthrough has the potential to save significant amounts of energy during production, making it appealing for future industrial applications. The research was conducted by an international team, including scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and their findings appeared in the journal Materials Today.

    Silicon, second only to oxygen in abundance on Earth, is already widely used in electronics and batteries due to its low cost and excellent electrical conductivity. However, researchers have been particularly interested in a rare silicon allotrope called R8, which could further increase the efficiency of batteries and electronic components. The challenge has been that R8 silicon does not naturally occur. Previously, producing it involved crushing regular crystalline silicon under extremely high pressure—an expensive, complex, and energy-intensive process unsuitable for large-scale manufacturing.

    To address this, the team explored an alternative approach. Instead of starting with crystalline silicon, they used amorphous silicon, a more disorganized form with a glass-like structure. Because its atoms are arranged randomly rather than in a regular pattern, amorphous silicon is much more adaptable when pressure is applied. The researchers discovered that compressing amorphous silicon at room temperature, using about 25% less pressure than traditional methods, naturally caused it to transform into the R8 crystal structure.

    This process, described as “density matching,” involves increasing the material’s density until its atoms spontaneously align into the R8 structure—similar to pieces of a puzzle fitting perfectly without forcing. To observe this transformation, the team used advanced instruments that direct neutrons and X-rays at the material, enabling them to monitor atomic changes in real time during compression. Complementary computer simulations confirmed their experimental results, modeling atomic behavior under different pressures and showing consistency with observed transformations.

    The simulations explained why this method is so effective. The flexible, amorphous structure of silicon allows its atoms to directly rearrange into the R8 form, bypassing multiple complicated intermediate steps that crystalline silicon must go through. The researchers also applied this technique to germanium, another semiconductor used in fiber-optic systems and electronics, and found that the density-matching approach worked there too. This indicates the method might extend beyond silicon, potentially enabling more efficient production of various advanced materials.

    If scalable, this process could lower manufacturing costs, reduce energy consumption, and enable wider access to high-performance materials for next-generation batteries and electronics, paving the way for more sustainable and affordable technological advancements.

  • Water-Powered Battery Charges Wearables and Can Destroy Devices

    Water-Powered Battery Charges Wearables and Can Destroy Devices

    Scientists have developed a new type of battery that operates using moisture from the air, instead of the liquid chemicals typically found in most batteries. This lightweight, flexible power source could potentially supply energy to wearable health trackers, smart sensors, and other compact electronics, all while being safer for users and the environment.

    Created by researchers at North Carolina State University and Rice University, their findings were published in the journal Science Advances. As many modern devices—like fitness trackers, medical monitors, and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors—require small, portable power sources, the new moisture-driven battery offers an innovative alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells. While lithium-ion batteries are effective, they tend to be heavy, rigid, and often contain flammable or toxic chemicals that can leak if damaged.

    This new design avoids those issues by absorbing water vapor from the surrounding air. Once water contacts the battery’s internal lithium chloride salts, it dissolves them, forming a saltwater electrolyte that conducts electricity. Because the battery is activated only upon exposure to air, it can stay sealed and inactive for extended periods, giving it a much longer shelf life compared to conventional batteries.

    Made from environmentally friendly materials, the battery features a magnesium anode, a silver-based cathode, and a cellulose membrane derived from plant matter. Its reliance on saltwater rather than flammable chemicals makes it safer and less harmful to the environment.

    The researchers also tackled a common challenge with flexible batteries—performance loss when stretched or bent. Inspired by pangolin scales, which are overlapping protective plates, they arranged the battery components in similar overlapping layers. This design ensures the battery maintains functionality even when subjected to stretching, twisting, or bending.

    Testing demonstrated that the battery could power a wireless Bluetooth blood oxygen monitor for up to 30 hours—comparable to many traditional batteries—highlighting its practical application potential. The team envisions this technology supporting future devices such as wearable medical tools, smart clothing, environmental sensors, tiny robots, and other interconnected electronics.

    An innovative feature of the battery is an optional “kill switch” designed for security purposes. This involves a dry mixture of aluminum and iodine powder stored separately. If someone attempts to tamper with the device, moisture from the environment activates the powder mixture, triggering a rapid chemical reaction that produces enough heat to destroy the device within minutes. In tests, a wireless gas sensor equipped with this kill switch was completely dismantled in under three minutes once triggered.

    While primarily aimed at security and intelligence applications, the main achievement lies in the battery itself. Combining flexibility, safety, biodegradability, and dependable performance, this pioneering technology has the potential to power next-generation smart devices while minimizing environmental impact.

  • How to Complete the Battery Puzzle on Blue Gate in Arc Raiders

    How to Complete the Battery Puzzle on Blue Gate in Arc Raiders

    The quest to find earthquake-resistant housing details in Arc Raiders remains unresolved, as it appears the project was abruptly shut down without explanation, despite its significance and usefulness. This situation is confusing and frustrating.

    Shani and the other key members of Speranza are determined to uncover what happened to the project. The townspeople need this knowledge to build safer underground homes, since the surface remains too dangerous for the last survivors. Your next clue takes you to the Blue Gate, where you’ll investigate MANTIKOR’s involvement in the project’s cancellation.

    ### Where To Find The MANTIKOR Facilities

    To continue Shani’s investigation, go to the Blue Gate. Every step in this quest must be completed in one run; otherwise, it won’t count. You need to visit the underground facilities marked with the orange MANTIKOR logo. There are two ways to reach the Security Wing where the mission objective is: First, enter through the Outer Gates at the Checkpoint POI and go up the stairs; second, go to the Reinforced Reception located at the north end of the map and descend via ziplines and stairs.

    Getting close to the MANTIKOR facilities will trigger the quest objective. Keep in mind, the room you need to access differs from the Blue Gate Confiscation Room. Instead, it resembles the fuel-cell doors found in Stella Montis. To find it, head to the center of the Security Wing, where two ziplines lead up to Reinforced Reception, and look for the blue line painted on the floor.

    > There’s a room in the Security Wing that stays locked with a Door Blocker unless looted. Inside, you’ll find valuable items like a weapons crate, metal lockers, and possibly two security breach lockers, without requiring a key.

    Follow the painted line past several rooms, clearing out fireballs and pop rollers that approach from the long, broken-down hallway lined with arches and remnants of robots. Stop in a small, open space featuring a large shuttered door with an attached electrical box and a desk with multiple computers.

    This shutdown door is what the quest specifies. The remaining objectives are inside, but the door won’t open until you solve a puzzle in the surrounding area.

    ### How To Get Into The Locked Room

    To open the door, find three white, medium-sized batteries hidden at specific spots around the room—these are placed on battery holders. Collect them and carry each one back to the electrical box on the wall, then insert them to unlock the door.

    > Some players report issues with the batteries spawning or the electrical components not responding, even in confirmed locations. However, another player can open the door for you, and you can still access the rest of the quest without problems.

    There are a few known spawn points for the batteries:
    – One may appear in an alcove near the stairs leading down to the lowest underground floor, next to a wall marked with yellow graffiti and arrows pointing to machinery.
    – Another might be beneath the staircase that leads to the ziplines, on the wall with red graffiti indicating direction.

    Batteries are carried like fuel cells, so you’ll need to make multiple trips unless a teammate assists. Once all three are placed, the door opens, allowing you to proceed.

    > If the electrical box by the door isn’t highlighted in blue, the step might be bugged. This indicates a glitch, but another player can open the door for you, allowing you to complete your objective.

    ### Where To Get The Dusty Film Reel

    Inside the room, you’ll find various loot, but the next step involves the tape player located in the corner downstairs. Interact with it to play the tape and advance the quest.

    Next, move to the left side of the monitor wall, where you’ll find a film reel container that looks like a washing machine. Completing this puzzle is optional — you can do it any time you visit The Blue Gate while looting the area, which includes crates, drawers, and a weapons crate.

    Once you do this, you’ll receive the Dusty Film Reel, the item needed for the final step. Return to Speranza, speak with Shani, and complete the quest. As rewards, you’ll earn experience points, unlock the Warden color for the Patchwork Outfit, and gain 2,000 credits, in addition to the loot from the locked room.

  • How to Solve the Ancient Fort Battery Puzzle in Arc Raiders

    How to Solve the Ancient Fort Battery Puzzle in Arc Raiders

    If you want to improve your gear during a raid in Arc Raiders, head over to The Blue Gate map. This is currently the toughest map available and offers a challenging endgame experience with many ARC enemies and rough terrain. It also includes several small puzzles that reward you with loot once solved.

    One of these puzzles is found at the Ancient Fort. It involves locating three hidden batteries to open a locked cellar door. While it sounds straightforward, finding the batteries can be tricky if you’re unsure where to look. Here’s what you need to know to complete this puzzle quickly and get some good loot.

    Where to Find the Ancient Fort Puzzle

    The puzzle is at the Ancient Fort point on The Blue Gate map. To find it, go to the southeastern part of the map and identify a large stone structure. On the eastern side of this fort, you’ll see a cellar door that’s locked, with three cables extending from it. This door is where the loot is stored, so keep this location in mind while exploring.

    Ancient Fort is fairly remote, so you might not encounter many ARC enemies outside of Wasps, Hornets, and Snitches. Additionally, in the town just northwest of the fort, a Leaper or a Bombadeer can spawn, so keep your distance from those.

    How to Complete the Ancient Fort Puzzle

    To unlock the cellar, you need to find three batteries and carry each to a different electrical box. The batteries are roughly the size of the typical Field Crates and can’t be stored in your inventory. Carrying a battery will slow you down significantly, cause you to holster your weapons, and drain stamina quickly if you try to run with it.

    You will need to bring each battery to its corresponding electrical box, which are always in the same spots:

    • Along the southernmost wall of the fort.
    • On the second floor of the tower inside the fort.
    • On the second floor on the northern side of the fort.

    These electrical boxes are easy to identify because they glow bright blue when you’re near with a battery, and they open at an angle.

    Tip: If you’re having trouble locating a box, follow the cables coming from the cellar.

    All Battery Locations in Ancient Fort

    The batteries are scattered around and inside the fort. Their spawn points are usually marked by a wooden pallet on the ground—this is a good visual cue, although the pallet remains even if no battery spawns there. In total, there are about twelve potential spawn locations for batteries, but only three will be present at a time. Keep a close eye on each location.

    You will find batteries in the following spots:

    • Along the southwestern road that curves around the fort.
    • Inside the ruined house northwest of the fort, just before the town. Usually on top of the generator.
    • In the northern, ruined house between the fort and the town, near the old, collapsed building.
    • Inside the fort, beneath the southern wall, in a room with containers that can be broken.
    • Inside the tower’s second floor on the north side.
    • Behind the rusted, white car southwest of the fort.
    • At the top of the tower in the fort.
    • Inside the house southeast of the fort, on the generator.
    • Inside the destroyed house east of the fort, among satellite dishes.
    • In the ruined building southwest of the fort, near the old vehicle.
    • Inside the fort’s southern room with breachable containers.
    • At the final spawn point directly west of the fort inside a ruined structure.

    Note: Only three batteries will spawn each time, but these locations are consistent, making it easier to check each spot systematically.

    Looting the Basement

    After placing all three batteries in their respective boxes, the cellar door will unlock. Descend the ladder into the basement where you’ll find a weapon case and various electrical and medical items. Keep an eye on the computers; advanced electrical components often spawn there. Be cautious, as the basement has only one entrance, and enemies waiting outside might surprise you. Clear the area before looting to maximize your safety and rewards.

  • Lil Nas X Faces Four Felonies After Naked Arrest in LA

    Lil Nas X Faces Four Felonies After Naked Arrest in LA

    Digital Phablet – Lil Nas X faces serious felony charges following a shocking arrest in Los Angeles.

    Also Read:
    Lil Nas X detained in LA after chaotic street incident

    The rapper, whose real name is Montero Lamar Hill, is facing multiple felony counts after police claim he assaulted officers during his arrest last week. Authorities reported that the incident occurred on Ventura Boulevard when they found him exposed and acting erratically.

    Law enforcement officials stated that Lil Nas X, in an encounter early last Thursday, charged at officers when they approached him. Reports indicate that witnesses alerted authorities about a shirtless individual in the vicinity, which subsequently led to his detention.

    According to TMZ, Lil Nas X was shackled and hospitalized after being spotted wandering around LA at approximately 4 a.m. wearing only his underwear. A tweet from Pop Base confirmed this account, mentioning he was hospitalized following the incident.

    Last week, NBC News cited a police source stating that Lil Nas X struck a police officer twice in the face. The source also speculated whether mental health issues or substance overdose might have contributed to his behavior.

    At that time, the “Old Town Road” artist was taken to a medical facility and faced charges of assaulting an officer.

    Recent legal documents reveal that Lil Nas X has been formally charged with three counts of battery on a police officer and resisting arrest. These papers were filed on Monday in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details about the incident.

    Multiple outlets have verified that Lil Nas X was apprehended in Los Angeles on August 21, 2025, after being seen roaming the streets in his underwear. A video captured by TMZ shows him walking erratically, dressed solely in white underwear and cowboy boots. The same source later released footage depicting the rapper, barefoot and unclothed, in the midst of the chaos.

    TMZ was the first to report that the artist was hospitalized and obtained exclusive footage of him walking in his underwear and boots. The coverage also includes images of Lil Nas X in a vulnerable state, emphasizing his disoriented condition during the arrest.

    Further updates indicate that the rapper was involved in a physical altercation with law enforcement officers, leading to serious charges. The incident continues to draw significant media attention, with ongoing inquiries about his mental health and the circumstances surrounding his behavior.

  • Samsung Budget Galaxy Buds 3 FE Offer AirPods Style and Longer Battery

    Samsung Budget Galaxy Buds 3 FE Offer AirPods Style and Longer Battery

    Samsung has introduced a new addition to its Galaxy Buds series with the Galaxy Buds 3 FE, a more budget-friendly option that joins the existing Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro models unveiled in July 2024.

    Staying consistent with its family lineup, the Galaxy Buds 3 FE feature a shift from the traditional rounded earbud design to a style resembling Apple’s AirPods, which Samsung refers to as its ‘Blade’ design. This design includes a small stem that can be pinched to control playback or swiped to adjust volume, offering a sleek and intuitive user experience.

    For those seeking hands-free control, the Buds 3 FE can be integrated with Google Gemini, allowing voice commands such as “Hey Google” to manage playback and other functions. When paired with a Samsung Galaxy phone, users can also send messages and check emails via voice activation, adding convenience to everyday tasks.

    Real-time translation is also available through the Galaxy AI Interpreter app, enabling conversations across different languages — a nifty feature for travelers or multilingual users.

    Beyond their functionality, the new buds boast a rugged IP54 waterproof rating, making them suitable for workouts, outdoor activities, or rainy weather without worry.

    ### Enhanced Performance and Features

    The Galaxy Buds 3 FE come equipped with several notable upgrades. They feature a larger driver for a richer, more powerful sound with deep bass and clear treble, continuing Samsung’s tradition of delivering full, balanced sound signatures. Additionally, active noise cancellation has been improved from previous models, better reducing ambient noise to keep you immersed in your music or calls.

    While they support Samsung’s SSC Bluetooth codec along with standard AAC and SBC codecs, higher-end codecs like aptX and LDAC are absent — a common omission at this price point, though it doesn’t significantly impact the overall listening experience.

    Battery life is particularly impressive given the affordable pricing. The earbuds offer up to 8.5 hours of playback (or 6 hours with noise cancelling active), and the charging case provides an additional 24 hours (or 30 hours with ANC on). This outperforms many more expensive earbuds on the market, including Samsung’s own Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, which max out at around seven hours.

    Available in black or gray, the Galaxy Buds 3 FE are set to hit the US market on September 4, with a retail price of $150. They will also be available in other regions soon.

    [Image Credit: Digital Trends]

  • Does Bitchat App Drain My Battery?

    Does Bitchat App Drain My Battery?

    In today’s fast-paced digital world, battery life is a precious commodity. With numerous messaging apps available, many users are concerned about the impact these applications have on their devices. One such app that has gained popularity is Bitchat. This article delves into whether the Bitchat app drains your battery and what factors contribute to its power consumption.

    Understanding Battery Drain

    Before we explore the specifics of Bitchat, it’s vital to understand what causes an app to drain your battery:

    Major Factors Influencing Battery Use

    • Background Activity: Apps that run in the background can consume significant energy.

    • Data Usage: Frequent data transmission, especially for multimedia, can deplete battery life.

    • Screen Brightness: Higher brightness settings can contribute to battery drain.

    • Notifications: Continuous notifications can keep the app active, using more battery.

    Bitchat App: Key Features and Power Consumption

    Bitchat boasts several features that enhance user experience but may also impact battery life. Here are some of its critical functionalities:

    Popular Features

    • Voice and Video Calls: High-quality audio and video calls typically use more battery compared to text messaging.

    • Large Media Files: Sending and receiving images, videos, or documents can lead to increased battery usage.

    • Location Sharing: Constant location updates can drain battery power significantly.

    Battery Drain Analysis

    To gauge how much battery Bitchat might consume, consider the following:

    1. Active Usage vs. Background Usage: Active interaction within the app will drain more battery than when it is merely running in the background.

    2. Frequency of Use: Heavily relying on the app (for example, longer calls and repeated media sharing) will lead to more significant battery depletion.

    3. Connection Type: Using Bitchat over Wi-Fi generally consumes less battery compared to cellular data.

    Tips to Minimize Battery Drain While Using Bitchat

    If you’re an avid user of the Bitchat app, here are some strategies to help you conserve battery life:

    Optimize Settings

    • Lower Screen Brightness: Reducing brightness can significantly save battery life.

    • Disable Background App Refresh: Limiting background activity can help preserve energy.

    Manage Notifications

    • Adjust Notification Settings: Customize notifications to only receive essential alerts.

    • Mute Chats: Temporarily muting less important conversations can reduce background activity.

    Monitor Data Usage

    • Use Wi-Fi When Possible: Connect to Wi-Fi rather than mobile data to minimize battery drain.

    • Control Media Sharing: Limit the sharing and receiving of large files unless necessary.

    User Experiences with Bitchat Battery Consumption

    Many users have reported mixed experiences regarding battery drain with the Bitchat app. Here are some notable points:

    • Heavy Users: Those who frequently engage in video calls or share large files may notice significantly higher battery consumption.

    • Casual Users: Users who mainly text and send smaller media files generally experience minimal battery impact.

    By being aware of the features of Bitchat and employing strategies to reduce battery consumption, you can enjoy using the app without frequently worrying about your device’s battery life.

  • Completing Your Search for a Smartphone and Battery in SCUM

    Completing Your Search for a Smartphone and Battery in SCUM

    As you venture through the puppet-filled territory of Scum, you’ll discover a wide range of loot. Some items, like metal scraps, are quite common, while others, such as a mobile phone, are rather rare. Once you get your hands on a phone, you’ll unlock a significant game mechanic.

    However, finding this item isn’t easy, and even if you manage to snag one, getting it powered on takes some effort. Here’s what you need to know to handle its battery properly.

    How to Obtain a Phone

    A smartphone is one of those unique items in Scum that can’t be purchased at any outpost, making it even harder to find due to its low drop rate. Just like other loot in the game, you can discover smartphones by rummaging through various containers or spotting them on shelves.

    The most reliable method for finding them is by defeating non-player characters (NPCs) or other players. You’re likely to come across smartphones after taking down NPCs like puppets; just check their bodies afterward. Once you’ve searched them, press Tab to view the items lying on the ground to see if a smartphone is among them. The higher its durability, the better it is for your use.

    Note: A smartphone’s durability is quite impressive, so you can hold onto it for a long time, even if it’s not at full capacity.

    How to Use the Phone

    Unfortunately, your quest for items isn’t quite over once you find the smartphone. You still need to track down a smartphone battery, which is a thin, square-shaped brick. After acquiring the battery, drag it to your smartphone and click on the insert button.

    Once the battery is in place, keep the smartphone in your quick access tab and press the designated button. This will generate a sound confirming that the device is now on. Press the button again, and the phone will be ready for use. The primary function of the smartphone is to allow you to take on quests remotely.

    Tip: After you finish using the smartphone, it’s a good idea to remove the battery to prevent it from draining unnecessarily.

    Depending on your level, you can take on multiple quests through this phone and add them directly to your tracker.

  • Recalibrating Your Switch 2 Battery: Completing the Solution

    Recalibrating Your Switch 2 Battery: Completing the Solution

    Quick Links

    The Nintendo Switch 2 offers several upgrades over the original version, including a larger display, enhanced performance, and added features like mouse support and GameChat. However, many users have noticed that the battery tends to drain more quickly than that of the original model.

    If you’re facing quicker battery drain, don’t stress. It’s quite possible that the issue lies with the battery indicator, not the battery itself. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy fix, which we’ll explain further below.

    Should You Recalibrate Your Battery?

    First, it’s crucial to grasp why recalibrating your battery is necessary. Generally, there’s nothing wrong with the battery itself; it’s most likely that the battery charge indicator is displaying an incorrect level.

    This issue is common with Lithium-ion batteries and usually resolves itself over time. Regular use of your Switch 2 can gradually recalibrate the battery, allowing it to display the correct charge level.

    Still, if you think the calibration is off, manually recalibrating your battery won’t hurt, so feel free to proceed.

    How To Recalibrate Your Switch 2 Battery

    Nintendo Switch 2 Promo Art

    If you wish to speed up the recalibration process rather than waiting for it to adjust on its own, you can manually recalibrate the battery by following these steps:

    1. Press and hold the power button, select Power Options, and then choose Power Off to completely turn off your Switch 2.
    2. Press and hold both the volume up and volume down buttons, then tap the power button to enter Recovery Mode.
    3. Simply booting the device into Recovery Mode should resolve the calibration issue. Press the power button once more to turn it off.
    4. Turn the device back on and check the battery indicator.

    If the battery indicator shows a change, your battery has been successfully recalibrated. If there’s no change, it’s likely that it was already calibrated correctly.

    If you continue to experience battery issues, it might be time to consider sending it in for repairs.

  • iOS 26 AI Battery Settings: How to Disable Smart Optimization

    With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has taken battery management to the next level. One of the most notable features is Smart Optimization, an AI-driven system that learns your usage patterns to enhance battery longevity. While many users appreciate this feature, some may prefer to manage their battery settings manually. This guide will walk you through how to disable Smart Optimization on your device.

    Understanding Smart Optimization

    Smart Optimization utilizes artificial intelligence to monitor and adapt to your daily habits. This includes:

    • Adaptive Charging: It learns when you typically charge your device and adjusts the charging speed to minimize battery wear.

    • Background App Management: Apps not actively used are limited in background activities to conserve power.

    • Usage Predictions: AI analyzes your app usage to prioritize battery life for frequently used applications.

    While these features can be beneficial, they may not align with every user’s preferences.

    Disabling Smart Optimization

    If you wish to regain control over your battery settings, follow these steps to disable Smart Optimization:

    Step 1: Open Settings

    • Locate the Settings icon on your home screen. Tap to open the app.

    Step 2: Navigate to Battery Settings

    • Scroll down and select Battery from the list of options.

    Step 3: Access AI Battery Features

    • Within the Battery menu, find and select Battery Health & Charging.

    Step 4: Disable Smart Optimization

    • Toggle off the switch next to Smart Optimization. A confirmation message may appear; confirm your decision to disable the feature.

    Step 5: Adjust Additional Settings (Optional)

    After disabling Smart Optimization, you might also want to consider adjusting additional battery settings:

    • Low Power Mode: Enable this mode to restrict background activities and visual effects.

    • Background App Refresh: Disable this feature for apps you rarely use.

    • Location Services: Manage location settings for apps that don’t require continuous tracking.

    Managing Your Battery Life Post-Optimization

    After turning off Smart Optimization, there are several manual ways you can enhance your battery life:

    • Reduce Screen Brightness: Lowering your screen brightness or enabling auto-brightness can save battery.

    • Limit Notifications: Disable non-essential notifications that can wake your screen unnecessarily.

    • Manage Connectivity Features: Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data when not in use.

    • Uninstall Unused Apps: Remove apps that you don’t need, as they may still consume resources in the background.

    Monitoring Battery Health

    To ensure your battery remains in good condition even after disabling Smart Optimization, keep an eye on its health:

    • Check Battery Health: Return to the Battery Health & Charging section to view the maximum capacity and performance capability.

    • Understand Battery Usage: Review which apps are consuming the most battery by tapping on Battery Usage.

    By regaining control over your iOS 26 battery settings, you can customize your device to fit your individual needs. Whether you choose to maintain Smart Optimization or disable it, the key is to find the balance that works best for you.

  • HMD’s Amped Buds Give Your Phone Last-Mile Battery Boost

    HMD’s Amped Buds Give Your Phone Last-Mile Battery Boost

    MWC 2025
    Mobile World Congress
    Explore our extensive coverage of Mobile World Congress
    Updated just now

    At MWC 2025 in Barcelona, HMD has unveiled its latest innovation: a pair of wireless earbuds that also functions as a mini power bank for your phone. Known as the HMD Amped Buds, these earbuds come with a distinctive hinge on the earpiece and a variety of audio features.

    The charging case boasts an elegant design with an aluminum alloy exterior and a colorful matte finish. Weighing in at a mere 80 grams (2.82 ounces), the case provides IPX4-rated splash resistance and is packed with a 1,600mAh battery.

    According to HMD, the case has enough energy to deliver an additional 20% battery charge wirelessly to an iPhone 16 Pro, and can enhance the charge by up to 24% when connected via a USB-C cable.

    James Robinson shared insights on HMD Amped Buds:

    “…earbuds that do more than just sound amazing. Their sleek, ultra-thin charging case is also a backup battery—so when your phone is running low, just snap it on for extra power. No cables, no stress—just a quick battery boost… pic.twitter.com/GFk34KYXsR

    — HMD (@HMDdevices) March 2, 2025

    The charging case, compatible with Qi2 technology, magnetically attaches to smartphones, including those with MagSafe support. HMD assures that the Amped Buds’ case will work seamlessly with protective cases that feature a magnetic ring and can charge nearly any smartphone that supports wireless charging capabilities.

    This isn’t the first time a concept like this has been executed. Several lesser-known brands previously released wireless earbuds with charging cases that act as power banks. Notably, Nokia had a similar feature with its wireless earbuds integrated into one of its feature phones, while Huawei also delivered earbuds housed within a smartwatch.

    HMD Amped Buds in pink variant.
    HMD

    Returning to the HMD Amped Buds, these wireless earbuds come with an IP54 rating and feature a flexible hinge design to ensure a comfortable fit. Sound is delivered through 10mm drivers, and users can customize the equalizer using a dedicated app available for both Android and iOS platforms.

    The earbuds also employ hybrid Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Environmental Noise Cancelling (ENC) technologies, utilizing a triple-microphone array on each side. On the connectivity front, they support Google Fast Pair and can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, accommodating up to two at one time.

    The Amped Buds offer a listening duration of up to 4 hours with hybrid ANC activated, while standard use can extend up to 8 hours on a full charge. When fully charged, the case provides a total listening time of up to 95 hours.

    HMD Amped Buds in black shade.
    HMD

    This innovative approach by HMD aims to provide a convenient source of backup power for smartphones as the day winds down. The Amped Buds are scheduled for release in April, retailing at €199, although details regarding their availability in the U.S. have yet to be announced.

    It’s important to note that the concept of wireless power transfer between a phone and earbuds case isn’t particularly new. For years, many users have charged their earbuds by placing them on top of compatible smartphones supporting reverse wireless charging. Other manufacturers like Xiaomi and Nothing have also adopted this feature, while Apple seems to lag behind despite being a pioneer in this space and having the necessary technology ready for its devices.

  • How Much Does The Electric Car Battery Really Cost?

    How Much Does The Electric Car Battery Really Cost?

    A few months ago, the electric car manufacturer Nio introduced a unique model equipped with an enormous 150 kWh semi-solid battery, theoretically offering a range of 1,000 km.

    This information made headlines because the cost of this battery was simply staggering: approximately 50,000 euros. It was so expensive that the company opted not to sell it but only to lease it for now.

    Costs Vary from One to Four Times

    Fortunately, batteries with smaller capacities are less expensive. The media outlet Elements delved into this topic by publishing an infographic on the price of batteries for six different electric cars. These figures are estimates based on the cost per kWh of an accumulator, according to the American analyst firm Benchmark Minerals Intelligence. These prices should not be taken as absolute, as the actual cost may be lower or higher for various reasons.

    vce the cost of an evs batteries sept6 962x1700 1

    One should consider factors such as the environmental bonus in the United States, which allows manufacturers to benefit from subsidies, reducing the cost per kWh of a battery by nearly a third. Additionally, commercial agreements between manufacturers and battery suppliers (such as BYD or CATL) can vary significantly depending on the volumes involved. For instance, Tesla has much greater negotiating power than Ford, for example.

    From $7,000 to $26,000

    In any case, this information gives us an idea of the cost of an electric car battery. We start with the Volkswagen ID.4 and its 62 kWh NCM (Nickel Cobalt Manganese) battery from CATL, which would cost $8,730. In the case of Ford, the Mustang Mach-E has been equipped with LG’s LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) chemistry, which lacks cobalt, for a few months, coming in at a more affordable $6,895 for a 70 kWh capacity.

    Thus, the battery accounts for 23.4% of the price of the Volkswagen, compared to 16% for Ford. This is partly due to the LFP battery, which has its advantages and could eventually replace more conventional chemistries.

    At Tesla, the Model S with its 100 kWh NCA (Nickel Cobalt Aluminum) battery from Panasonic is estimated at $12,030. This represents approximately 13% of the total car price. Let’s finish with a behemoth: the 229 kWh battery of the RAM 1500 Rev Limited, with NCM chemistry from LG, estimated at $25,835! That’s 32% of the total car price.

    LFP to the Rescue

    A small clarification: all the prices mentioned here are excluding taxes, so you would need to add VAT to get an idea of the inclusive prices in euros. In any case, it’s clear that the battery is a costly component of an electric car. Fortunately, technology is evolving rapidly, as seen with LFP batteries. This is why Ford has shifted from NCM to LFP chemistry.

    A few months ago, in the case of Renault, the battery could account for up to 40% of the price of an electric car. One can imagine that this figure has likely decreased since then, as the price of lithium has decreased, as has the cost per kWh. It is currently estimated at $98.5 per kWh for LFP chemistry, $112.7 per kWh for NCM, and $120.3 per kWh for NCA.

    LFP chemistry has not yet completely replaced NCA and NCM due to a few drawbacks, such as its lower energy density, which currently prevents the production of batteries with as large a capacity as those with other chemistries. However, its price makes it a significant asset for entry-level vehicles.

    It’s important to note that electric car batteries have excellent longevity. In case of issues outside the warranty period, there’s no need to replace the entire battery and pay thousands of euros. Some specialized mechanics can replace only the faulty cell(s), costing a few hundred euros at most.