Bigger batteries aren't the only way to add more juice to a MacBook or iPad. Being more efficient is actually a far better - and cheaper - option.
That's why Apple fans should be excited to hear that Apple is is likely to adopt indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) displays to help reduce energy consumption in its mobile devices, including the MacBook, iPhone and iPad.
"According to industry insiders, having decided to apply the IGZO method to displays for MacBook, Apple is talking with LCD panel manufacturers, such as Sharp and LG Display."
The technology behind IGZO displays is pretty impressive. According to MacRuomrs, the semiconducting material touts forty times more electron mobility than the standard amorphous silicon that is used as the active layer of an LCD screen, "allowing for higher resolution displays, better reaction times and less power consumption."
The MacBook seems like a likely product for Apple to test out first. Last month, the company released updated MacBook Airs with 9 hour battery life on the 11-inch model and 12 hour battery life on the 13-inch model. This blogger recently picked up an 11-inch model and must say, it's quite snappy, and the battery life is impressive.
If Apple can improve battery life to 15 hours on both devices by next year, it could be a huge selling point for the MacBook, already the country's most popular laptop.
Next up, Apple should look at the iPhone, which appears to have the biggest issue when it comes to battery life. For example, my wife's iPhone 4S can now barely make it throughout the day without flirting with 5 percent battery life. With so much data consumption over cellular and WiFi networks, in addition to constant daily use, the iPhone could be stand to use a 15-hour battery life.
New operating systems - iOS 7 for the iPhone and Mavericks for the Mac - should also make the computer and smart devices more energy efficient.
I'd expect to see this new display technology implemented into the next-generation of MacBook Pro with Retina display. The Retina display MacBooks requires significant more juice than a MacBook Air, cramping battery life to six or seven hours if used smartly.
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