Samsung's been working to make solid-state batteries a reality for at least a decade, and the tech giant appears to be getting closer every year. The time has come for new patent applications to be approved and revealed. A whopping 14 all-solid-state battery patents belonging to Samsung Electro-Mechanics were confirmed recently by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), and most were filed a couple of years ago.
According to reports from the Korean media, Samsung Electro-Mechanics has acquired 14 more “all-solid-state battery” patents from KIPO, 12 of which were originally filed between November and December 2020.
Samsung is looking forward to share a new prototype
These patents may have been acquired in preparation for upcoming technological leaps in battery technology. Last week, Samsung Electro-Mechanics told the press at a shareholders' meeting that “based on this [solid oxide at high temperatures] technology, we are preparing small all-solid-state batteries or parts for green energy.”
Samsung Electro-Mechanics President further stated, “I will take a separate time to explain when I'm at the point of making a prototype.” (via The Elec)
Also worth noting is that Samsung SDI — an affiliate of Samsung Group — has even more patents in Korea related to solid-state batteries. Samsung SDI applied for 49 patents that concern solid-state battery characteristics, manufacturing methods, and structure.
The quest for developing solid-state batteries spans many years, but Samsung is getting closer to a consumer-grade product. As to why it's such a big deal, it's because solid-state batteries are much safer (they don't catch fire or explode even when punctured) and store energy more densely, which means smaller yet more powerful batteries for mobile phones, tablets, and all sorts of other devices.
Xiaomi recently claimed it has a new prototype device powered by a solid-state battery that boasts a 33% capacity increase compared to standard lithium-ion batteries and boasts 20% more energy efficiency in freezing temperatures. However, the company merely shared these details on paper rather than showing a working product.
