Samsung will be able to produce solid-state batteries that are safe enough for use in smartphones within one to two years, one of the company's executives said. Solid-state batteries are far more durable and provide better longevity than standard Lithium-Ion batteries.
One of the Samsung's SDI executives told The Korean Herald:
Our technological level to produce a solid-state battery for smartphones will be mature enough in one to two years. However, it depends on Samsung Electronics whether it will be used for phones. (...) As far as I know, the level of battery technology of our rival firm (LG Chem) is also similar to us.
Solid-state batteries do not use liquid to conduct ions, which is how Li-ion batteries operate. Li-ion batteries can ignite and even explode when liquid inside the battery contacts air or water outside. On the other hand, the solid electrolytes found within solid-state batteries are much less likely to ignite. If you'll recall, Samsung was forced to discontinue the Galaxy Note 7 after a series of reports on its Li-ion battery exploding.
Solid-state batteries are a realistic alternative to lithium-ion batteries in solving the chronic safety issue as the development has been relatively faster than other next-generation batteries over the last 10 years.
Solid-state batteries can be used in smartphones and electric vehicles. While we should see the first smartphones with this battery type within the next two years, vehicles will need more safety testing. The predicted premiere of a vehicle with a solid-state battery is expected to occur by around 2025.