<p>Zinc-air batteries (ZABs) are becoming a promising technology for high-capacity battery applications such as powering portable electronics, electric cars, and renewable energy systems. ZABs have a lower environmental impact compared to other batteries, are safer compared to LIBs, and are cost-effective since zinc is abundant. However, there were challenges in the initial research on ZABs due to poor chemical reactions on the zinc anode and slow oxygen reaction rates. Despite many benefits, there were challenges in zinc-air batteries. However, there have been significant developments in the fabrication of anodes, development of new electrolytes, and bifunctional oxygen catalysts to improve zinc-air battery performance. Despite these developments, there are challenges in zinc-air batteries, including shorter lifetimes, lower power density, and corrosion of the air electrode. This review article provides an in-depth overview of the fundamental principles, various challenges faced in adopting these principles, and offers suggestions for better battery performance. The article also covers recent developments, applications, and possibilities for electrically rechargeable ZABs, giving an idea of how this promising battery is evolving.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>