Apple has been using lithium-ion batteries in their products since 1991, starting with the PowerBook 100. This type of battery is of course rechargeable and it uses lithium ions to move between the anode and cathode to store and release energy. It’s the most common type of battery used in portable electronics today because they are lightweight, have a high energy density, and can be recharged many times.
Apple uses custom-designed lithium-ion batteries in their products, which are made with high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and performance. Designed to be environmentally friendly, the company is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products.
That’s why the company has been committed to developing new battery technologies to increase the battery life of its products. However, this technology is not ready yet and is not expected to hit the market anytime soon. Therefore, the company is exploring an alternative approach for the iPhone 16 Pro by incorporating a new battery design featuring a metal shell.
A sneak peek into the potential future of iPhones was shared by Kosutami on X, showcasing what is rumored to be a component of the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro. According to Kosutami, this leaked battery is in its “early stage” prototype and boasts a capacity of 3,355 mAh(13.02Wh), with LCV 4.48V(Limited Charge Voltage), only a slight increase from the iPhone 15 Pro’s 3,274 mAh battery.
Away from the conventional foil covering seen in previous iPhone batteries, this leaked prototype adopts the familiar L-shaped design but with a twist—a metal shell encases it. The current stage prototype has changed some design: from a glossy surface to a frosted metal shell, and with a redesigned connector
Considering that the iPhone 16’s official unveiling is about a year away, there’s a possibility that Apple might revise its plans and stick with the current battery design. However, if the prototype holds authenticity and successfully clears testing phases, users could anticipate substantial improvements, particularly in heat dissipation.
The incorporation of a metal shell is indeed a departure from the norm, suggesting a shift towards better heat distribution. Considering the user complaints about overheating issues with the iPhone 15 Pro, Apple is presumably addressing these concerns by focusing on enhanced thermal management for the forthcoming iPhone.
