Is Your AirTag Battery Dying Too Quickly? There's (Likely) a Fix for That
AirTag users have reported experiencing frequent low battery warnings, prompting concerns about the device's reliability, despite it being powered by a CR2032 battery that typically lasts over a year. A simple solution involves cleaning the battery contacts with a microfiber cloth to remove any residue that may interfere with functionality, particularly due to child-safe coatings on the batteries. If issues persist after this cleaning method, users may need to consider replacing the battery or consulting Apple for potential hardware problems.
This situation highlights the importance of basic maintenance for tech devices, suggesting that user knowledge can significantly enhance device longevity and performance.
What other common tech devices might benefit from simple maintenance tips that users are unaware of?
iFixit's teardown of the iPhone 16e highlights significant improvements in repairability, achieving a score of 7/10, which is higher than previous models. The phone features a new battery adhesive that can be released with a quick jolt of electricity, facilitating easier DIY repairs, although accessing certain components still requires removing multiple parts. Apple's evolving approach towards repairability, including the introduction of DIY repair kits, reflects a shift in priorities, though challenges remain for average users aiming to fix their devices.
This development suggests a potential turning point in Apple's relationship with repair advocates, possibly influencing other tech companies to enhance repairability in their products as well.
Will Apple's gradual shift toward repairable devices lead to a more sustainable model in the tech industry, or will consumer demand for newer models continue to overshadow repair initiatives?
The current generation of the Apple AirTag 4-Pack is available for $65, its lowest price ever, offering a huge discount on the regular price of nearly $30 each. This deal makes it an attractive option for iPhone users looking to monitor their keys, wallet, luggage, and more with a reliable Bluetooth tracker. The AirTag's ease of use, small size, and high accuracy make it a popular choice among those who struggle with lost items.
The widespread adoption of the Apple AirTag has highlighted the growing demand for portable tracking devices, which could lead to increased competition in the market for similar products.
Will the ongoing discounts on the Apple AirTag encourage more people to consider Bluetooth trackers as a viable solution for everyday item tracking, or will they remain a niche product?
The Apple AirTag 4-Pack is a highly reliable and affordable Bluetooth tracking solution that can be used to track keys, wallets, luggage, and more. With its ease of use, small size, and ultra-wideband connectivity protocol, the AirTag provides highly accurate tracking information, making it an ideal choice for individuals who struggle with losing their belongings. The current price of $70 for a 4-pack is significantly cheaper than the regular price of nearly $30 each.
One of the key benefits of using Bluetooth trackers like Apple AirTags is their ability to bring a sense of security and peace of mind, especially for parents who are constantly on the lookout for their children.
As more people consider purchasing AirTags or similar tracking devices, there are concerns about data privacy and potential misuse of this technology, which raises important questions about its long-term implications.
LG's breakthrough in precursor-free cathode technology will enable it to produce cheaper 4680 batteries, which are expected to increase power output in cold weather conditions. The new production method reduces energy expenditure and eliminates toxic solvents, resulting in lower production costs. Tesla plans to use these 4680 batteries for its Cybertruck, Model Y Juniper refresh, and other vehicles.
The economies of scale achieved by LG's increased 4680 battery production capacity could lead to significant price drops for electric vehicles, further accelerating adoption in the US market.
As the demand for 4680 batteries continues to rise, will Tesla be able to maintain its supply chain reliability and avoid bottlenecks that have plagued other industries?
While the Model Y Juniper refresh still comes with the battery capacity of its predecessor, in the US it may move to 4680 batteries with the increase of output spearheaded by Tesla and, now, LG. Tesla's battery supplier LG Chem has demonstrated a precursor-free cathode breakthrough that it will use to make cheaper cells with increased power output in cold weather conditions. Production of said precursor-free cathodes will begin by July, and LG might apply the method to the batteries produced in its Arizona factory that is set to open next year.
This development could fundamentally alter the electric vehicle landscape by bringing more affordable battery options to market, reducing the cost differential between luxury EVs and mass-market models.
What implications might this have for Tesla's ability to scale up production and maintain its competitive edge, given that 4680 batteries are seen as a key factor in improving overall range and efficiency?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip has become a source of frustration for its user, primarily due to battery performance issues and software glitches that undermine its unique features. Despite the phone's physical durability, including no visible cracks or damage, the battery's inability to last throughout the day has prompted the user to seek alternatives before the release of the newer model. The recent software update exacerbated the situation by disabling critical features like do-not-disturb, further diminishing the phone's appeal and usability.
This experience highlights the importance of software stability and battery reliability in maintaining consumer satisfaction, particularly for innovative devices that prioritize form over function.
What steps can manufacturers take to ensure that software updates enhance rather than hinder the user experience of their devices?
Nomad's rechargeable Tracking Card uses Apple's Find My network to keep track of your physical wallet. It's priced at $39 and is finally back in stock.Its sleek design makes it only the width of two credit cards, and the battery lasts for five months.However, be aware that it requires a wireless charger.
The use of a wireless charger eliminates the hassle of tangled cords and provides a convenient way to keep your tracking card charged on-the-go.
As more people adopt this type of tracker, we can expect to see innovations in wireless charging technology, potentially leading to even smaller and more efficient designs.
The Apple iPhone 16e assumes the place of the iPhone SE 3 as the cheapest iPhone in Apple's range, utilizing the space saved by omitting the second rear camera to install a larger battery with a capacity of 4,005 mAh. This offers a 12.4% higher capacity compared to the iPhone 16, and also includes repairs that make replacement components easier. The internal structure is similar between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 16, but Apple's design changes provide significant upgrades.
By optimizing battery replacements and component swaps, Apple may be driving innovation in repairability across the tech industry, forcing competitors to rethink their designs.
As consumers increasingly prioritize repairability over disposability, what implications will this shift have on the global electronic waste management landscape?
Acer's latest addition to the Aspire lineup has a worthy hardware lineup with an impressive, multi-day battery. The laptop features a fantastic battery that will last for days on end, making it perfect for all-day use. Its power-efficient design and eco-friendly components also reflect Acer's brand messaging, positioning itself as at the forefront of sustainable technology.
This move signifies a growing trend in the budget laptop market where AI-ready devices are prioritizing long-lasting batteries over other features, potentially setting a precedent for future innovations.
How will the increasing popularity of affordable laptops with exceptional battery life impact consumer expectations and drive further advancements in laptop design and power efficiency?
Apple has published new instructions for cleaning its AirPods 3 and AirPods 4 models, recommending the use of a third-party Belkin AirPods cleaning kit. The company's guidelines specify the materials needed to clean the earbuds, including micellar water and distilled water, and provide step-by-step procedures for each model. Apple's move suggests a desire to standardize cleaning procedures for its popular wireless earbuds.
By issuing detailed instructions on how to clean AirPods, Apple is exerting control over a common issue that affects many of its customers, potentially improving overall user experience and reducing support queries.
Will the endorsement of a specific Belkin kit lead to a proliferation of similar products in the market, creating a new category of accessories tailored to Apple's devices?
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a revolutionary new battery technology, silicon-carbon chemistries, which promises significantly improved energy density levels and may even enable the device to match the battery capacity of its flagship models. This could be a game-changer for Apple's next-gen smartphone, potentially restoring competitiveness in the market. With its thin profile set to be under 6mm thick, the iPhone 17 Air is already generating significant interest among tech enthusiasts.
The adoption of silicon-carbon batteries by leading OEMs like Xiaomi and OnePlus suggests that this technology has become a viable alternative for increasing battery capacity without sacrificing portability.
As Apple prepares to launch the iPhone 17 Air, what will be the most significant challenge in balancing its ambitious design goals with the technical limitations imposed by the new battery chemistry?
The Apple iPhone 16e has a larger battery capacity than previously expected, according to a test carried out by Dave2D. The device reportedly boasts a 3,961 mAh battery, surpassing the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Pro's capacities of 3,561 mAh and 3,582 mAh, respectively. This significant boost in battery life is reflected in real-world tests, where the iPhone 16e outperformed its competitors by lasting over an hour longer on a single charge.
The unexpected increase in battery capacity in the iPhone 16e's successor raises questions about Apple's design priorities and how it will balance power efficiency with user demands for extended battery life.
Will this trend of higher-capacity batteries become a standard feature across future iPhone models, potentially leading to increased heat generation and other performance implications?
Honor has announced a commitment to providing seven years of Android OS and security updates to its latest Magic series devices, including the Honor Magic 7 Pro. This move brings the burgeoning smartphone manufacturer in line with Apple, Samsung, and Google, all of which provide seven years of software and security updates to their respective flagship smartphones. Previously, Honor handsets were typically supported with five years of updates.
The long-term commitment to update support by Honor underscores the industry's shift towards prioritizing user experience and device longevity, particularly in a market where consumers are increasingly investing heavily in their mobile devices.
How will the extended update cycle impact the role of traditional carriers in maintaining device performance and security, now that manufacturers are taking on more responsibility?
The Sharge Icemag 2 lives up to its name as a cool-running charger that won't burn a hole in your pocket - literally or figuratively. With a perfect size, a powerful battery, RBG lighting, and a tiny fan to keep things cool, this power bank is ideal for those on the go. The Icemag 2 isn't exactly the fastest charging power bank on the market but it's still a bargain.
This power bank's ability to maintain its cool demeanor in warm environments makes it an excellent companion for travelers who often find themselves in scorching heat with their phone.
Will this power bank's design and technology trickle down to other manufacturers, leading to a wider adoption of cooling solutions in portable chargers?
The slow charging curve of Tesla's Cybertruck can be attributed to the thermal inefficiency of its 4680 battery design, which has been exposed by a recent teardown comparison with the more efficient BYD Blade battery cell. According to a study led by Jonas Gorsch, a researcher at RWTH Aachen University, the prismatic BYD cell has twice the thermal efficiency of Tesla's 4680 battery when charging current is applied. This inefficiency could be due to increased charge transfer resistance in and at the surface of the anode, leading to higher heat generation during fast charging.
The implications of this design flaw for the long-term competitive position of Tesla's electric vehicles, particularly in high-performance models like the Cybertruck, are uncertain and warrant further investigation.
How will the adoption of more efficient battery designs by rivals like BYD impact the pricing dynamics between EV manufacturers in the coming years?
The Samsung Galaxy S36 has officially been shown off at MWC 2025, ditching its predecessor's Exynos SoC for a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3. The new device upgrades the fast charging on its 5,000 mAh battery to 45 Watts, allowing users to record HDR video using the 12 MP selfie camera. Samsung's newest mid-range Galaxy A smartphones, including the Galaxy A36, offer important generation-over-generation upgrades compared to their predecessors.
This latest move by Samsung underscores the importance of timely updates and refreshes in the smartphone market, particularly for mid-range devices that often form a significant chunk of overall sales.
How will the increasing adoption of newer SoCs and charging technologies impact the environmental sustainability of the smartphone industry?
South Korea has tightened rules on carrying lithium batteries on planes, highlighting a growing risk to flights worldwide from the batteries used in cellphones and e-cigarettes that can malfunction to produce smoke, fire or extreme heat. The new regulations aim to mitigate the risks associated with overheating lithium batteries, which have been linked to several incidents globally. By implementing stricter guidelines, South Korea is taking steps to prioritize passenger safety and prevent potential hazards.
The increasing adoption of portable power banks and electronic cigarettes on flights underscores the need for robust safety protocols, as these devices can pose a significant risk to aircraft operations if not handled properly.
Will the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics lead to a comprehensive overhaul of aviation regulations, requiring manufacturers to redesign their products with safety features that mitigate such risks?
Apple's new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air variants offer improved performance, increased storage, and enhanced colour options without a price increase. The refreshed laptops utilize Apple's newest M4 chip, providing a boost in processing power and efficiency. Additionally, the machines boast expanded RAM and storage capabilities, catering to users' growing demands.
This development may signal a shift towards more extensive hardware upgrades at Apple, potentially setting a new standard for future product refreshes.
Will the increased performance and features of the M4 MacBook Air's competitors in the laptop market be enough to sway consumers away from their own brand loyalties?
The Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N business laptop features a simple user-replaceable battery, a rare design element in modern laptops. The device is designed for professionals who require a durable and portable machine with long-term usability. Weighing under 1kg, the Portégé Z40L-N has a magnesium alloy chassis that meets MIL-STD-810H standards for durability.
This move could be seen as a strategic response by Dynabook to address concerns over battery degradation and user flexibility in modern business laptops.
Will this design trend continue, or will other manufacturers follow Apple's lead in adopting sealed batteries for their devices?
A "hidden feature" was found in a Chinese-made Bluetooth chip that allows malicious actors to run arbitrary commands, unlock additional functionalities, and extract sensitive information from millions of Internet of Things (IoT) devices worldwide. The ESP32 chip's affordability and widespread use have made it a prime target for cyber threats, putting the personal data of billions of users at risk. Cybersecurity researchers Tarlogic discovered the vulnerability, which they claim could be used to obtain confidential information, spy on citizens and companies, and execute more sophisticated attacks.
This widespread vulnerability highlights the need for IoT manufacturers to prioritize security measures, such as implementing robust testing protocols and conducting regular firmware updates.
How will governments around the world respond to this new wave of IoT-based cybersecurity threats, and what regulations or standards may be put in place to mitigate their impact?
Farasis Energy has revealed a new 6C ultra-fast charging technology that allows EV batteries to go from 10 to 80 percent in just 8:55 minutes, significantly reducing the charging duration for electric vehicles. This breakthrough could revolutionize the EV ownership experience by providing faster refueling options, particularly on longer journeys. The company's innovative solution optimizes battery design and heat management to achieve this impressive charging speed.
By drastically reducing charging times, Farasis Energy's technology has the potential to bridge the gap between urban and long-haul EV travel, making electric vehicles a more practical choice for daily commutes.
As the adoption of fast-charging infrastructure expands globally, how will this technology impact the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of electric vehicle ownership in the coming years?
The Anker Solix F3800 Home Power System is capable of running an entire house without any worries, thanks to its industry-leading features such as scalable up to 53.8kWh for prolonged outages and seamless integration with grid and solar systems. The app-based intelligent energy monitoring and control system provides users with peace of mind, allowing them to track their energy usage and adjust settings remotely. With a reliable 5-year warranty and 10-year component lifespan, the F3800 is a powerful and versatile home energy solution.
This innovative home power system has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach backup power solutions for our homes, making it an attractive option for those looking to reduce their reliance on the grid.
As more households adopt renewable energy sources like solar panels, how will the Anker Solix F3800 Home Power System adapt to integrate with these systems and ensure a seamless transition to clean energy?
Apple has officially unveiled the next-generation iPad Air, now powered by the M3 chip, which enhances performance significantly without altering the pricing structure of previous models. This upgrade maintains the familiar design while introducing compatibility with the new Magic Keyboard, featuring a larger trackpad and additional function keys, further enriching the user experience. With promises of improved speed and efficiency, the iPad Air aims to solidify its position as a versatile device suitable for both casual users and professionals alike.
The ongoing enhancements in the iPad Air line reflect Apple’s commitment to keeping its tablets competitive against increasingly capable laptops, highlighting a shift in consumer preferences toward mobile computing solutions.
How will the advancements in iPad technology influence the future of traditional laptops and personal computing devices?
The rise of new gadgets from Apple is a welcome change for those looking to upgrade their devices without breaking the bank. The new MacBook Air and iPad Air are notable upgrades that offer faster performance, better webcams, and more affordable prices. Meanwhile, apps like Palworld and Deli Boys are offering fresh takes on gaming and community-building experiences.
As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, it's becoming increasingly important for developers to prioritize accessibility and user experience in their products, lest they become relics of the past.
How will the ever-changing landscape of consumer tech influence the way we approach product design and development in the next decade?