In the realm of lithium-ion batteries, smartphones play a prominent role and have sparked a continuous debate: Does extended charging, particularly overnight charging, have harmful effects on your battery?
Several factors influence the lifespan of a phone battery, including its manufacturing age and chemical age. Chemical age refers to the gradual degradation of the battery caused by variables such as fluctuations in temperature, charging and discharging patterns, and overall usage.
Over time, the chemical aging of lithium-ion batteries diminishes charge capacity, battery lifespan, and performance.
According to Apple, a normal iPhone battery is designed to retain up to 80% of its original capacity at 500 complete charge cycles under normal conditions.
Research has revealed that, on average, a 2019 smartphone battery can undergo about 850 full charge/discharge cycles before falling below 80% capacity. This implies that, after approximately two to three years of use, only 80% of the initial battery capacity remains, and the battery starts depleting noticeably faster.
Is it advisable to charge your phone overnight?
Most new-generation smartphones require approximately 30 minutes to two hours to fully charge.
Charging times vary based on the battery capacity of your device (larger capacities require more time) as well as the power supplied by the charger.
Charging your phone overnight is not only unnecessary, but it also accelerates battery aging. To maximize your battery's lifespan, it is recommended to avoid full charging cycles (going from 0% to 100%).
Samsung advises against charging your battery up to 100% frequently, as it may negatively impact the overall lifespan of the battery. Similarly, keeping iPhones at maximum charge for extended periods can compromise battery health. Instead of fully topping up the battery, it is recommended to charge it up to 80% and not let it drop below 20%.
Can your phone be overcharged?
In theory, lithium-ion batteries can be overcharged, which poses safety risks such as overheating and fire. Fortunately, most modern phones incorporate built-in protection mechanisms that automatically halt further charging beyond 100%, thus preventing any damage from overcharging.
However, each time a battery drops to 99% (due to background apps), it will undergo "trickle charging" to maintain a fully charged state.
Trickle charging can gradually wear down a battery over time. To regulate this, many manufacturers have implemented features. Apple's iPhones provide the option to delay charging past 80%, while Samsung's Galaxy phones offer the ability to cap the charge at 85%.
Can your phone explode from charging?
The chances of your smartphone exploding as a result of charging are highly unlikely, especially considering that most phones now have automatic protections against overcharging.
Nevertheless, reports of phones unexpectedly exploding have surfaced over the years. Typically, this occurs due to manufacturing faults, poor-quality hardware, or physical damage.
Lithium-ion phone batteries overheat when the heat generated during charging cannot dissipate properly, potentially causing burns or, in extreme cases, igniting a fire.
Additionally, these batteries function effectively within a temperature range of 0℃ to 40℃. Higher ambient temperatures may cause them to expand, leading to a fire or explosion.
Using an incorrect, faulty, or low-quality charger or cable can also induce overheating, fire hazards, and damage to the phone itself.
Tips to prolong your battery's lifespan
While your phone likely incorporates built-in safety mechanisms to protect its battery, adopting a cautious approach can further extend its lifespan. Here are some ways to safeguard your phone's battery:
1. Install the latest software updates to ensure your phone benefits from the manufacturer's battery efficiency enhancements.
2. Use original or certified power chargers, as off-market chargers may differ in power delivery (amps, volts, and watts) and fail to meet safety standards.
3. Avoid exposing your phone to high temperatures. Apple and Samsung recommend operating their phones within an ambient temperature range of 0℃ to 35℃.
4. Limit your charging to 80% of the full capacity and avoid allowing it to drop below 20%.
5. Do not leave your phone connected to the power source for an extended period, particularly overnight. Disconnect it when the battery reaches 100%.
6. Keep your phone in a well-ventilated area while charging and refrain from placing it or the charger under a blanket, pillow, or against your body.
7. Monitor your battery health and usage to identify any unusual trends, such as excessively long charging times or rapid battery draining.
8. If you notice your phone heating up excessively or observe a bulging or swollen back, seek assistance from an authorized service center for inspection and repair.
For specific details about your particular phone and battery, it is best to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
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