this post was submitted on 01 Aug 2024
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I feel like the real problem isn't Lithium-Ion batteries, but specifically non-removable Li-ion batteries. With some devices, non-removable isn't as huge of a deal, but with other items such as headphones, mice, and gamepads, I'd rather have AA batteries than non-removable Li-ion. In the event that a battery dies while using the device, having to tether yourself sucks. Whereas taking 2 seconds to swap the battery is simple and quick.
Now, the best of both worlds is just a removable Li-Ion battery. That way you can charge overnight, and just swap to another battery when it unexpectedly dies. My headset does that and I love it. Similarly, I used to have that with my LG G4 and it was amazing. This combo yields the best convenience and is best for the environment as you don't need to recycle as many batteries or replace the whole product when the non-removable battery starts dying too quickly.
It's criminal that companies are allowed to release products with sealed Lithium-ion batteries. Like... even excluding the benefit of hot-swapping them for better uptime, extending the product's life with replacement, and limiting the proprietary shapes... old Lithium-ion batteries swell and explode. So why are we putting them into the core of our products with no way to see the health and remove them?
It'll soon be illegal in the EU. If I remember correctly, all handhelds need to have removable batteries.
Here's the legislation.
It's like I cursed myself. THE DAY AFTER posting this I found out that the enclosed battery in my phone is swelling, and I have no method to remove it.
Very important use case as well. Safety.
That's hopefully also something new battery tech will fix in the future, like solid state batteries.
But there's probably still a few years before those are cheap enough to put in reasonable priced phones.