In 1800, Alessandro Volta invented the first version of the thing we now call a battery. We’ve come a long way from his initial gadget to the lithium-ion batteries that power much of our lives, including our phones, batteries, cars, satellites, and more.
The Battery Issue
The past, present, and future of the lithium-ion battery
Illustration by William Joel / The Verge
Batteries are undergoing a kind of renaissance. They’re more powerful than ever, and we’ve gotten smarter about how to use them. Besides being an important part of our everyday lives — who doesn’t get stressed out when their phone is at 9 percent? — they’re also playing a role in storing renewable energy.
This workhorse technology influences a lot more than just tech. Some gaming systems depend on battery-powered controllers, and in order for movie protagonists to be truly isolated, their phones must be drained of power. Fast-charging stations are more important than ever. Scientists and engineers are trying to figure out how to make even better batteries, ones that are less likely to explode and able to hold even more energy.
We’re taking a week to celebrate the humble battery and its influence on technology, culture, science, and transportation. If you’re reading this on a smartphone, after all, you have your battery to thank.
Michael Zelenko
Spinning flywheels, underground caves, damming up rivers
Angela Chen
As NASA relies more on lithium-ion batteries, the space agency has a plan to make them safe
Loren Grush
Change comes slowly
Angela Chen
Flying requires an incredible amount of energy, and batteries are too heavy
Andrew J. Hawkins
Like being shocked with static electricity
Angela Chen
Jacob Kastrenakes
An essential item that belongs in your bag
Chris Welch
Horror filmmakers have learned to tackle technological isolation in creative ways
Tasha Robinson
Experts say solid-state batteries are still years away, but Henrik Fisker disagrees
Sean O'Kane
Megan Farokhmanesh
Michael Zelenko
Spinning flywheels, underground caves, damming up rivers
Angela Chen
As NASA relies more on lithium-ion batteries, the space agency has a plan to make them safe
Loren Grush
Change comes slowly
Angela Chen
Flying requires an incredible amount of energy, and batteries are too heavy
Andrew J. Hawkins
Like being shocked with static electricity
Angela Chen
Jacob Kastrenakes
An essential item that belongs in your bag
Chris Welch
Horror filmmakers have learned to tackle technological isolation in creative ways
Tasha Robinson
Experts say solid-state batteries are still years away, but Henrik Fisker disagrees
Sean O'Kane
Megan Farokhmanesh
