Rumors of Samsung developing a groundbreaking new battery technology began circulating in late September and early October 2024. Recent reports from a Samsung subsidiary confirm not only the existence of these batteries but also their projected mass production starting as early as 2026.
Next-Gen Oxide Batteries: A Game Changer for Wearables
These cutting-edge oxide-based batteries boast an impressive density of 200 watt-hours per liter, rivaling larger lithium-ion batteries, as reported by the Korea Herald. Samsung aims to replace current lithium batteries with this safer, more efficient, and flexible solid-state oxide technology.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics, the subsidiary behind this development, supplies components to a diverse range of clients. At CES 2025 in Las Vegas, CEO Chang Duk-hyun confirmed the company had conducted rigorous internal testing and was engaging in discussions with potential clients. While the specific client list remains undisclosed, speculation suggests that other prominent wearable manufacturers, such as Apple, could also leverage this innovative technology.
A person changing the watch face on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.
Multi-Week Battery Life: A Reality for Smartwatches?
If these reports prove accurate, the 2026 Samsung Galaxy Watch could mark a significant advancement in smartwatch battery life. While certain smartwatches already offer impressive battery performance, like the Garmin Instinct 3’s purported 24-day lifespan, these figures often rely on supplemental charging methods such as solar power. Achieving genuine multi-week battery life, even with moderate to heavy usage, would be a monumental achievement for smartwatch enthusiasts.
Potential Applications Beyond Smartwatches
Currently, there is no confirmation regarding the potential application of these batteries in smartphones. While enhancing wearable battery life is crucial, a sufficiently large capacity to power a smartphone throughout the day, even under demanding usage scenarios, would be a transformative improvement. Regardless, this technology presents a significant competitive advantage for whichever company successfully integrates it into wearables first.
Conclusion: A New Era for Battery Technology
Samsung’s innovative oxide-based batteries hold the promise of revolutionizing the wearable tech landscape. With the potential for significantly extended battery life, this technology could reshape user expectations and drive further advancements in smartwatch functionality. The projected 2026 mass production timeline suggests a near-future where multi-week battery life becomes the new standard for smartwatches and potentially other devices.
