
This waterproof “coffin” will keep an AirTag alive for a decade
The Elevation Lab has unveiled the TimeCapsule, a protective case that turns an Apple AirTag into a waterproof and dustproof tracker with a whopping 10-year battery life. The innovative device replaces the AirTag’s coin cell battery with a pair of AA batteries, allowing it to withstand harsh environments without needing constant replacement.
The TimeCapsule is made of fiber-reinforced polycarbonate, which ensures that Bluetooth or UWB signals are not blocked or reduced in any way. Additionally, it has an IP69 rating, providing the highest protection against water, dust, and dirt ingress. This means you don’t have to worry about your AirTag getting damaged by accidental splashes or exposure to moisture.
One of the most attractive features of this device is its ability to camouflage the AirTag, making it resemble an external storage drive instead of a tracking device. This could be particularly useful for situations where discretion is crucial.
While there are some trade-offs involved with using the TimeCapsule. The case weighs in at 3.5 ounces when batteries are installed, significantly heavier than the standard AirTag which weighs just 0.39 ounces. Furthermore, it muffles the volume of the AirTag’s chirps by about two-thirds, potentially making it more challenging to locate by ear.
However, for situations where replacing the battery every year is not feasible or desirable, these drawbacks may be seen as a small price to pay. The manufacturer recommends using Energizer Ultimate Lithium AAs to maximize battery life and prevent any potential leaks or corrosion caused by alkaline batteries.
Finally, it’s possible to use nickel-metal hydride batteries, but they won’t quite last as long before needing recharging.
Source: www.theverge.com