A Chinese startup, Betavolt, has unveiled a nuclear battery capable of generating electricity for up to 50 years without the need for charging or maintenance. The Beijing-based company claims it has achieved a breakthrough by miniaturizing atomic energy, using nickel-63 isotopes within a module that is smaller than a coin.

The next-generation battery is currently undergoing pilot testing and is expected to be mass-produced for various commercial applications, including smartphones, drones, medical equipment, microprocessors, advanced sensors, and micro-robots. Betavolt stated that this innovation could provide long-lasting power supply for industries like aerospace, AI equipment, and healthcare.

The technology works by converting energy released from the decay of isotopes into electricity, a process first explored in the 20th century. While earlier versions of thermonuclear batteries were large and expensive, primarily used in spacecraft, underwater systems, and remote scientific stations, Betavolt’s design marks a significant advancement in making the technology smaller, more efficient, and commercially viable.

This breakthrough is expected to give China a competitive edge in the global AI and technological revolution, enabling advancements in industries that require reliable, long-lasting energy.