That gap could force users to make tradeoffs in how, and for what, they use their phones, even as vendors at all levels work even harder to reduce power demand in mobile devices, according to Chris Shreck, a research analyst with IMS Research.

Users are embracing an array of mobile data services and applications, doing more with their phones, even as the newest devices require more power to support new technologies. But batteries are not keeping pace, Schreck says.

Schreck estimates that a 1500 mAh battery, the industry's current "high water mark," yields for many smartphone users a battery life of about 6 hours. That's highly dependent on what applications and on-device technologies, including Wi-Fi, users are running. The latest and greatest tech advances, including faster CPUs, higher data throughput, and improved displays all crank up the demand for power.

That combination of user behavior and technology is boosting power demand faster than battery capacity can keep up. Shreck estimates power requirements can grow 15% a year.