Apple envisions laptops that run for days without a recharge

The tech giant files a patent application for a built-in fuel cell system that could power electronics for "days or even weeks without refueling."

 This Apple Macbook Pro could one day be powered by a fuel cell system. CNET

One of the most oft complaints about electronics is battery life. Digital cameras, smartphones and laptops can all run out of power when you're least prepared. It appears Apple is searching for a way to fix this problem.

The tech giant filed a patent application, which was published by the US Patent and Trademark Office on Thursday, for a "Fuel Cell System to Power a Portable Computing Device." Simply put, this would be an internal power system that could run a laptop for "days or even weeks without refueling," according to the application.

In the patent application, which was first reported by 9to5Mac, Apple describes a way for fuel cell power sources to be designed into electronics without adding a lot of extra weight. Fuel cells tend to be compelling because of their ability to pack a lot of energy into a relatively small package, compared to a battery.


Source : CNET