Elevation Lab has introduced the TimeCapsule, a $20 accessory designed to extend the battery life of Apple’s AirTag from one year to up to 10 years. The innovative case replaces the standard CR2032 coin cell battery used in the Bluetooth-based tracker with two AA lithium batteries, significantly increasing power capacity.
The TimeCapsule case, made from CNC-machined aluminum, requires users to remove the AirTag’s original backplate and battery before placing the device inside the waterproof enclosure. The company recommends using Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA batteries, which reportedly offer 14 times the power capacity of the original configuration.
This product is targeted at users who rely on AirTags for applications like vehicles, boats, or other situations where frequent battery changes are inconvenient. Elevation Lab sells the TimeCapsule directly through its website and Amazon.
The idea for the TimeCapsule stemmed from the inventor’s personal experience. After losing camera equipment to theft due to a depleted AirTag battery, the need for a longer-lasting power solution became apparent. While the company claims the extended battery life is achievable, independent testing would be required to fully verify these assertions. The larger AA batteries do make sense technically, though details about power consumption rates and testing methodologies have not been released.
The device has sparked discussions among tech enthusiasts. On platforms like Hacker News, users debated the balance between extended battery life and the TimeCapsule’s larger form factor. While impractical for smaller items like keys or pet tags, many noted its usefulness in larger applications like bags, vehicles, or equipment.
However, the device raised some concerns regarding privacy and safety. Critics pointed out that longer battery life could potentially make AirTags more susceptible to misuse, such as stalking. Despite these concerns, Apple’s built-in safety measures for AirTags remain active, including notifications on nearby iPhones when an AirTag is separated from its owner. Android devices, following a 2023 update, now also detect nearby AirTags by default.
Interestingly, some commenters suggested that tech-savvy individuals could create similar battery-extending solutions themselves. By using dummy CR2032 adapters connected to external battery packs, users could replicate the functionality of the TimeCapsule in a DIY manner.
While Elevation Lab’s TimeCapsule may not be suitable for every AirTag use case, its extended battery life could prove invaluable for specific scenarios, particularly where longevity is a priority over compactness.
