Google at work on major battery improvements with help from former Apple expert

Sources told The Wall Street Journal that the team is being led by Dr. Ramesh Bhardwaj as part of the Google X research group, and is so far comprised of just four people. The project is said to have begun in 2012.

The Journal noted that in 2013, CEO Larry Page said that battery life in mobile devices was a major problem that could lead to "new and better experiences" if it was solved. Bhardwaj has reportedly told industry executives that Google has at least 20 battery-reliant projects. Some of these include its self-driving car prototypes and Google Glass.

Bhardwaj's team is said to be working not just on improving lithium-ion technology but developing solid-state batteries, which are less chemcially volatile and can be manufactured in thin, pliable layers, making them especially suitable for devices like wearables. The current obstacle is believed to be cheap mass production.

The sources add that separate Google teams are collaboarating with AllCell Technologies on batteries for four projects. Among these is Project Loon, Google's attempt to spread Internet access to remote regions using high-flying balloons.

Battery life is one of the most common complaints about all modern electronics, including those made by Apple. The issue might be especially critical for Apple's rumored electric car project, and indeed, a poaching war between Apple and Tesla may be connected. In February, a poaching lawsuit was directed against Apple by A123 Systems, known for its battery technology.