Our mobile phones have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. From sending emails, browsing the internet, capturing memories to making important calls, these devices are a lot more than just communication tools. But, like every electronic device, they wear out over time. One of the most critical components that often triggers the thought of a phone upgrade is its battery. In this article, we’ll get into why people switch phones, how to save phone battery, how to check battery health, and the correct ways to use and charge your device.
What Are the Common Reasons for Switching Phones?
Mobile phones, despite being robust and integral to our daily lives, have their share of issues and advancements that prompt consumers to consider an upgrade. Below, explore the major reasons that might nudge someone to think about phone battery pack of their device:
Software Strain: As software evolves, it’s tailored to harness the capabilities of newer hardware. This sometimes results in software updates that might slow down older models. For instance, an app optimized for a latest-generation processor might struggle on a phone that’s several years old.
Natural Wear and Tear: Like any device, smartphones degrade with use. Constant read-write processes, accumulation of cached data, and physical wear and tear on internal components can all contribute to a phone becoming slower over time.
Camera Advancements: With the age of Instagram and TikTok, camera quality is a prime consideration. Manufacturers frequently roll out devices with improved camera specifications, better low-light performance, or innovative features like superzoom or macro lenses.
Speed Enhancements: A new model might boast a processor that’s significantly faster, offering smoother multitasking, better gaming experiences, or rapid app launches.
Innovative Additions: Think about features like in-display fingerprint readers, foldable displays, or even LiDAR sensors. As technology evolves, new features become major selling points.
OS Updates: Operating systems undergo major overhauls over time. Sometimes, older devices might not support the newest OS versions. This can result in users missing out on innovative features, interface changes, or functionality improvements.
Security Concerns: An outdated OS might not receive the latest security patches, potentially leaving phones vulnerable to malware or cyber-attacks.
Display Issues: The screen, being one of the most exposed parts, is susceptible to cracks or breaks from drops.
Component Failures: Buttons can become unresponsive, ports might deteriorate, and speakers can degrade.
Water Mishaps: Even with IP ratings, prolonged or deep exposure to water can damage phones, sometimes beyond repair.
Degradation: Every battery has a lifecycle. With each charge cycle, its ability to retain the same amount of power diminishes. Over time, users might find their phones not lasting as long as they once did, necessitating more frequent charges or even power bank dependencies.
Mobile Phone Battery Life is Generally More Than Ten Years?
The lifespan of a mobile phone battery is not typically measured in years but rather in charge cycles. A charge cycle is when you use all of the battery’s power, though not necessarily in one charge. For example, if you used 50% of your battery one day and then recharged it fully, and then used 50% again the next day, that would be one charge cycle.
Most smart phone batteries are designed to last between 300 to 500 charge cycles, and this usually translates to about two to three years of typical use. It’s rare for a mobile phone battery to retain most of its original capacity for more than ten years, even if unused. The inherent nature of phone batteries leads them to degrade over time.
How to Check the Health of the Phone Battery?
Understanding your phone battery’s health can be likened to understanding your own health. Just as you might not feel as energetic after a tiresome day, a phone battery won’t function as efficiently as it did on day one. As phone batteries go through repeated charging and discharging, their overall capacity — or the amount of energy they can hold — diminishes.
How to View it on an Android Phone?
For those using an Android phone, the process to peek into your battery’s behavior is relatively straightforward:
Accessing Basic Battery Information:
- Go to the Settings menu.
- Next select Battery.
- Choose Battery Usage.
This interface will showcase which applications and processes have been the most power-hungry recently. While this doesn’t offer a direct metric on battery health, a sudden spike in battery consumption by common apps could be a hint at a deteriorating battery.
Utilizing Third-Party Applications
While the native Android settings provide an overview, they might lack detailed metrics. This is where apps like AccuBattery come into the picture. Such apps delve deep into battery analytics, presenting users with precise information about battery health, charge cycles, and even projecting how long the battery will last based on current health.
Why Does My Phone Battery Die So Fast?
We’ve all been there: looking at our phone’s battery percentage and wondering, “Why does my phone battery die so fast?” So, why does this happen? Why is your phone battery draining fast? And how can you maximize your phone battery’s potential?
Screen Brightness and Behavior
- A brightly lit screen is a major power consumer. Using your phone on maximum brightness will drain the battery significantly faster.
- While it’s designed to adjust based on surrounding light, constantly adapting brightness levels can sometimes consume more battery than expected.
Background Operations
- Many apps, even when not actively in use, function in the background. Whether it’s social media apps checking for new messages, email apps syncing, or location-based services tracking your movements — these background activities can quickly drain your battery.
Connectivity Challenges
- If your phone constantly struggles to find or maintain a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection, it works overtime, leading to faster battery drain.
- Simultaneously using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data can be taxing on the battery.
Out-of-Date Applications
- Apps that haven’t been updated may not be optimized for your phone’s current OS or could be running inefficiently due to outdated code. Regularly updating your apps ensures that they’re optimized for battery efficiency.
How to Use a Mobile Phone Battery Correctly? What is the Correct Way to Charge?
Mindful Charging
Avoid draining your battery to 0% or charging it to 100% consistently. Batteries have optimal longevity when kept between 20% to 80%.
Go for Original Phone Battery charger
While third-party chargers might be cheaper, they may not be optimized for your phone’s charging requirements. Using the manufacturer-provided phone battery charger ensures a stable and safe charge.
Keep it Cool
Exposing your phone to high temperatures can accelerate battery degradation. It’s advisable to remove thick phone cases when charging and avoid charging your device in hot environments.
What are Apple’s Requirements for Battery Replacement?
Features of Apple Battery Replacement
● Only certified technicians handle replacements.
● Guaranteed use of original Apple phone batteries.
● Environmentally-friendly and safe procedures.
● Multiple service options: in-store, mail, onsite.
● Limited warranty on the new battery.
● Strict data privacy standards.
Pros
● Quality and performance assurance.
● Transparent, clear pricing.
● High convenience with varied service avenues.
● Potential for extended device lifespan.
Cons
● Might be pricier than local shops.
● Possible long wait times during busy periods.
● Additional repairs could increase costs.
● Warranty comes with certain restrictions.
How To Get Battery Replacement Service for Your iPhone?
There are several ways you can reach out to Apple for battery service:
- Set up an appointment with an Apple Authorized Service Provider or directly at an Apple Store near you.
- If visiting in person is not convenient, you can arrange to ship your iPhone directly to Apple.
- For the ultimate convenience, get an Apple Authorized Service Provider to come to your place, be it your residence or office.
- Speak directly to an Apple Support Advisor for guidance and further information.
Is Battery Replacement Free? If Not, What is the Price?
If you’re wondering about potential expenses, Apple’s “Get an Estimate” tool is your go-to resource. While the charges mentioned apply to services availed at Apple Stores or through direct mail to Apple, it’s essential to remember that other service providers may have different rates. Always get an estimate from them before proceeding. Generally, battery repairs and replacements begin at $70.
Upon receiving your iPhone, the Apple team will conduct a thorough inspection and confirm the service costs. Do keep in mind that if your iPhone has any damage that complicates battery replacement, like a shattered screen, that problem needs to be addressed first. Addressing such issues might come with additional costs.
Conclusion
While our phones are integral parts of our lives, understanding their health, especially that of the battery, is essential. Whether you’re an Android or Apple user, routinely checking battery health can provide insights into your phone’s performance and lifespan. Adopting proper charging habits, being aware of battery-draining apps, and understanding when it’s time for a battery replacement can extend the life of your current device and save you money in the long run. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for the phone battery charger a little too often, remember: your phone’s battery might just be trying to tell you something.
