Energizer Ultimate Child Shield coin cell batteries include the version used to power Apple AirTag
Energizer has developed a button battery for AirTag that aims to be as safe as possible, preventing burns if a child swallows it.
Apple has already faced a lot of criticism for the extremely useful AirTag, due to its power source. As a very compact device, it uses a lithium coin cell battery, considered a choking hazard by regulators.
This has already led Apple to update its AirTag warnings to comply with the violation rulings.
A possible answer to the problem comes from Energizer, which introduced its Ultimate Child Shield batteries. The series, which includes the CR2032 used by AirTag, is touted as the world’s only lithium coin cell battery that prevents ingestion burns if swallowed.
A button battery poses a potential choking hazard and could become lodged in a child’s throat. A swallowed battery can also start burning in 15 minutes and become life-threatening in just two hours.
Energizer insists its “no-burn technology” prevents esophageal burns. However, it is unclear how exactly this technology works.
The batteries also have other safety features, including a Color Alert feature that dyes the mouth blue when it comes into contact with saliva.
Additionally, like some game cartridges, there is a non-toxic bitter coating to encourage anyone to spit out the battery. Apple has previously warned that such bitter coatings might not work with AirTags, but Energizer says the battery works with all compatible devices.
Energizer already sells Child Shield batteries with bitter coating and color alert features, but the anti-burn element is specific to the Ultimate line.
Batteries are available throughout the United States. The price has not been disclosed.