This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
How often do we plug in our phones to any old charger and forget about it? Unbeknownst to many of us, one of the biggest mistakes you could be making with your iPhone isn’t always an obvious one. The way you charge your device can have a major impact on the longevity of your phone’s battery. We asked tech experts to tell us the biggest mistake you can make when it comes to plugging in your iPhone — and their answers may completely change the way you charge your phone (for the better).
Don’t forget to limit data usage when your battery power drops.
“Out of all the battery-saving tips out there, I personally find reducing data usage highly effective especially if you own one of those older iPhone models or not plus-size models,” Ur Rehman says. “Therefore, whenever possible, limit or if not needed, entirely eliminate using data to ensure a full day battery life.”
Preventing fast battery drainage by limiting data usage is the perfect preventative step to take to keep your phone battery from draining, but if you do find yourself far away from a charger and in need of more battery power, turn on Airplane Mode, reduce screen brightness, and save your device from imminent battery death.
One way to avoid this mistake is by doing your research on what the right car charger may be for your device, Tabassam says. “See what kind is compatible with your phone and then make your purchase accordingly,” Tabassam notes. “Furthermore, buy USB cables and chargers from reputable brands or sellers who are compatible with your device.”
And another reminder: leave your phone alone as it charges. The more activity you force upon it, the more taxing it will be to your battery.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make when they plug their phone in for charging is that they start using it,” says Kristi Stoll, Tech Enthusiast, Crowdfunding Expert, & Founder at KidVisionaries. “Charging heats up your phone, and using it while charging will overheat the battery. Frequently practicing this will eventually damage the health of your battery. One way to avoid doing this is If you have to use your phone urgently, you may unplug it from charging for a bit and then plug it back on.”
Following these two tips can save you the hassle and expense of needing to purchase a new phone battery, as well as the inconvenience of finding yourself with a dead phone just when you need it most.
