Cold weather could destroy your phone’s battery life – key steps to keep it safe

Posted on : January 19, 2023
Cold weather could destroy your phone’s battery life – key steps to keep it safe

With temperatures already plummeting as we enter the weekend, millions of Brits are wondering how they're going to keep their houses warm over the next few days.

And as if extortionate heating bills and draughty houses weren't enough of a headache, you might have smartphone problems to contend with as well.

That's because extremely cold temperatures can cause a smartphone battery to malfunction, meaning your phone could shut off randomly or, worse, not turn on at all.

READ NEXT: Map shows location where nine of inches of snow will land as -10C temperatures hit UK

It can be an absolute nightmare particularly if you're trying to find your way home on public transport to get out of the cold.

iPhone users in particular struggle with the problem, to the point where Apple has a dedicated support page for the issue.

"Low- or high-temperature conditions might cause the device to change its behaviour to regulate its temperature," the tech firm says on their site.

They add: "Using an iOS device in very cold conditions outside of its operating range might temporarily shorten battery life" and that it "could cause the device to turn off".

The reason this happens is because smartphones use lithium-ion batteries which contain a liquid that crystallises in extreme temperatures.

  • Woman trusts AI to decide whether to leave hubby – response leaves her 'shaking'

This stops electricity from flowing through the device, temporarily damaging the battery life.

Once the device warms up a bit, it should return to normal.

The issue tends to occur any time the temperature drops below zero.

You could put it inside a thick case or a sock to help maintain a fully functioning battery.

Several areas of the UK are set to be hit with at least nine inches of snow today (January 19th) according to Met Office estimates.

READ MORE:

  • Real-life 'Hammer of Thor' can 'aim' lightning bolts as they shoot from the sky
  • Deepfake AI tool tricks people into thinking you're paying attention on video calls
  • Your Sky TV remote has a 'special' button that most people don't even notice
  • Apple boss Tim Cook takes massive £28 million pay cut
  • 'Flirty' AI chatbot is 'sexually harassing' users and keeping them up at night

Source: Read Full Article