iPhones are known for their durability over time. However, certain habits and improper usage can actually cause your iPhone to break down faster than expected. According to Apple, here are some common mistakes users make with their iPhones.
1. Keeping the case on while charging
Apple says removing your iPhone case before charging can help preserve your battery’s health longer.
Some cases can trap extra heat, which affects your battery capacity. This could be due to the thickness or material of the case.
For example, leather cases insulate better than silicone, making your iPhone more prone to overheating while charging.
Apple advises, “If you notice your device getting hot while charging, remove it from the case immediately.”
2. Using your iPhone when it’s too hot
High temperatures can harm smartphones, and Apple’s pricey iPhones are no exception. Apple explains, “Both low and high temperature conditions can affect your device.”
The ideal temperature range for iPhones is 62 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (about 16.6 to 22 degrees Celsius). Cold temps can temporarily reduce battery life, but heat can permanently damage battery health.
On hot days, iPhones can easily exceed their normal operating temperature. Apple warns against:
– Leaving your device in a hot car
– Exposing it to direct sunlight for long periods
– Using certain features in hot conditions or direct sun for extended times, like GPS navigation in a car, heavy graphics gaming, or augmented reality apps
To avoid risks, even on mild days, don’t keep your iPhone in tight spaces like under bedding or in your pocket for too long.
If your phone feels hot, stop using it or even turn it off. Avoid heavy apps for long stretches. This is especially important for gamers, since high-graphics games can heat up your phone’s processor quickly.
3. Forgetting to use Low Power Mode
“To reduce power use and extend battery life, enable Low Power Mode,” Apple recommends.
Low Power Mode disables some background features that drain battery, like limiting app activity and background data refresh, helping save energy.
According to Apple’s official site, these background restrictions turn off when you disable Low Power Mode or when your battery reaches 80% or higher.
To turn on Low Power Mode, go to Settings > Battery and toggle it on.
4. Not using Auto-Brightness
Many people like to keep their phone screen brightness at max, but it’s not always necessary. In dark rooms or at night, a bright screen can strain your eyes.
Also, the brighter your screen, the faster your battery drains.
So consider enabling Apple’s Auto-Brightness feature, which adjusts screen brightness based on ambient light wherever you are. This can greatly improve battery life over time and conveniently keeps brightness at a comfortable level.
To enable Auto-Brightness, go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size and turn it on.
