Strategies and Emerging Directions for Next‐Generation Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors

Zinc‐ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHSCs) are an emerging class of predominantly aqueous‐based energy‐storage devices that bridge supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries by coupling fast capacitive processes with zinc‐based Faradaic reactions. While aqueous electrolytes are the most widely employed, recent developments have also extended to non‐aqueous electrolyte systems. Their intrinsic safety, low cost, and high‐rate capability make them attractive for wearable, microelectronic, and autonomous systems. However, their practical implementation remains hindered by zinc anode instability, kinetic mismatch between capacitive and battery‐type cathodes, electrolyte trade‐offs, and scalability of complex device architectures. Herein, we address the strategies to overcome these challenges examined from a mechanism‐guided and system‐level perspective. Emerging device concepts including flexible, micro‐ZIHSCs, self‐healing systems and hybrid air‐assisted configurations are discussed as viable pathways to overcome intrinsic material limitations. Finally, key knowledge gaps, standardization needs, and future research directions are outlined to accelerate the translation of ZIHSCs from laboratory studies to application‐relevant energy‐storage technologies.