
TimeCapsule Extends AirTag Battery Life to a Decade | Image Source: www.tomsguide.com
NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2024 — Apple’s AirTag has become a staple for tracking lost items, but its coin battery, which typically lasts around 12 months, can be a hassle to replace for users with multiple AirTags. A new accessory called TimeCapsule, developed by ElevationLab, seeks to eliminate this issue, extending AirTag battery life up to a decade by swapping the CR2032 coin battery for AA batteries.
As reported by Tom’s Guide, TimeCapsule offers a solution to one of the AirTag’s biggest inconveniences. While the Find My app notifies users when the AirTag battery is running low, the process of replacing batteries can still be inconvenient, particularly for those relying on multiple devices. This accessory aims to simplify that experience and provide long-term reliability for AirTag users.
How TimeCapsule Works
The TimeCapsule works by housing an AirTag and drawing power from two AA batteries instead of the standard CR2032 coin battery. According to the ElevationLab product page, the switch to high-capacity AA batteries results in up to ten years of uninterrupted operation for a single AirTag. This represents a significant improvement over the original battery’s lifespan, which averages about one year.
Users can purchase the TimeCapsule for $20 individually or opt for bundle deals, such as two for $30 or four for $40, making it a cost-effective option for those with multiple trackers. While the upfront cost includes the accessory, users must also purchase high-quality AA batteries separately to achieve the promised decade-long battery life.
Trade-offs Between Portability and Longevity
One of the core advantages of the AirTag is its compact design, which allows it to be easily slipped into wallets, bags, or attached to keys. However, as noted by Tom’s Guide, the TimeCapsule’s rectangular casing adds bulk to the AirTag, which may limit its versatility. Despite this, the device is designed to be fully waterproof and constructed with premium CNC-machined screws, ensuring durability for outdoor and heavy-duty use.
The trade-off between size and functionality makes the TimeCapsule particularly suitable for use with larger items such as camera bags, checked luggage, or even e-bikes and electric scooters. In such scenarios, the additional size may be a negligible compromise for the extended battery life and enhanced tracking reliability.
Implications for AirTag 2
The introduction of TimeCapsule comes amid speculation about Apple’s next-generation AirTag, rumored to include an upgraded Ultra Wideband chip for extended tracking range. However, as Tom’s Guide highlights, it remains unclear how the new chip might affect battery performance. If AirTag 2’s features demand more power, accessories like TimeCapsule could become even more valuable for users seeking a reliable long-term solution.
As the market for location-tracking devices evolves, TimeCapsule demonstrates how third-party innovations can address consumer pain points. By significantly extending the life of an AirTag, the accessory provides a glimpse of how extended functionality can outweigh minor compromises, such as increased size.
Pricing and Availability
The TimeCapsule is currently available for purchase on Amazon, with the base unit priced at $20. Bundle options reduce the per-unit cost, making it an attractive option for users with multiple AirTags. Additionally, ElevationLab emphasizes the device’s value in providing peace of mind for those frequently traveling or managing high-value items.
While the accessory requires a separate investment in quality AA batteries, the prospect of a decade-long power supply represents significant savings and convenience over the recurring replacement of CR2032 batteries. With the potential launch of AirTag 2 on the horizon, innovations like TimeCapsule offer an intriguing complement to Apple’s existing tracking ecosystem.
For users looking to enhance the reliability of their AirTags while reducing maintenance, the TimeCapsule is poised to become a practical and cost-effective solution. Whether for frequent travelers, photographers, or everyday consumers, this accessory addresses a longstanding challenge with a simple and effective approach.