Apple and Samsung Adapting to Air Safety Regulations by Reducing Smartphone Battery Size

Have you ever considered why Chinese OEMs are equipping their smartphones with significantly larger batteries, while industry giants like Apple and Samsung opt for more modest capacities? This contrast often raises eyebrows and leads to speculation about cost-effectiveness. However, there may be deeper reasons at play, particularly regarding regulatory compliance in the U. S.and EU.

Regulations Surrounding Battery Capacity: A Disincentive for Apple and Samsung

vivo X300 Pro battery lifeThe X300 Pro’s battery capacity is a bit of a contentious topic. In China and many other markets, the phone comes with a 6, 510mAh battery, but in the EU its capacity is just 5, 440mAh, and that’s the version we’ve tested. The phone is most probably…

— PhoneArt (@UniverseIce) November 8, 2025

Renowned tipster Ice Universe highlights that the rigorous air safety regulations may be a significant factor limiting the battery capacities of Apple and Samsung devices. To understand this better, we need to look closely at the current regulations governing lithium batteries.

IATA Guidelines for Lithium Batteries — Source

In our investigation, we discovered that theories surrounding regulation constraints hold merit. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) revised guidance document identifies certain exemptions for batteries whose “Watt-hour rating does not exceed 20Wh.”

To calculate the Watt-hour (Wh) rating from milliamp hours (mAh), one must divide the mAh value by 1, 000 and multiply it by the battery’s nominal voltage, typically around 3.7V. For instance, a battery with 4, 000mAh, like that in the Samsung Galaxy S25, would yield a Wh rating of 14.80 after completing the calculation.

Chinese OEMs can leverage larger batteries mainly because their devices are predominantly marketed within China or developing markets where such stringent regulations are less enforced. In contrast, Apple and Samsung, who see a significant portion of their sales in the U. S.and EU, face comprehensive regulations that classify high-capacity batteries as “dangerous goods.”Compliance with these regulations entails extensive documentation, precise labeling, and specialized packaging.

Thus, the next time you find your Apple or Samsung smartphone struggling to last through the day, remember that stringent air safety regulations may play a pivotal role in limiting their battery capabilities.

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