How to Make Longer Time Out of a Failing Phone Battery

If your phone's battery seems to be fading faster than you can recharge it, you’re not alone. As smartphones age, their battery life often deteriorates. If upgrading to a new phone isn’t feasible right now, there are several strategies you can use to extend your current battery’s lifespan.

Optimize Power Settings

Modern smartphones come with built-in power-saving features designed to help you extend battery life. To enable it, open the Settings app, go to Battery, and switch on Low Power Mode. This reduces screen brightness, pauses background activities, and slows down processor speed to conserve energy.

For Android phones, the feature is called Battery Saver or Power Saving Mode, depending on the manufacturer. To activate it, go to Settings, select Battery, and turn on Battery Saver. Some devices also offer an Extreme Battery Saver mode for even greater efficiency.

Adjust Your Display

In addition, reduce the screen timeout setting so your phone’s display turns off more quickly when not in use.

Manage App Activity

Apps can drain your battery by running in the background or using location services. Regularly check which apps are using the most power by going to your phone’s battery settings. On iPhones, this can be found under Battery Usage, while on Android phones, it is under Battery Usage or Battery Diagnostics. Consider closing apps that you’re not using and disabling background app refresh. For apps that use location services, switch them to “While Using the App” mode rather than “Always” in the settings.

Use Airplane Mode

When you’re in an area with poor reception, your phone uses more power searching for a signal. Enabling Airplane Mode can prevent this excessive battery drain. Just remember, you won’t be able to make calls or use data while Airplane Mode is on.

Keep Your Phone Cool

High temperatures can accelerate battery degradation. Avoid exposing your phone to excessive heat, and try not to leave it in direct sunlight or in hot environments. Keeping your phone cool can help maintain battery health.

Invest in External Battery Solutions

If you need an extra power boost, consider purchasing an external battery pack. These come in various sizes and capacities. Portable power banks can recharge your phone multiple times and are relatively affordable, typically ranging from $50 to $75 for quality models. Another option is to use a phone case with a built-in battery, which can provide additional power without needing to carry a separate charger.

Consider a Battery Replacement

If your phone’s battery life is critically short, replacing the battery might be a worthwhile investment. Check if your phone’s manufacturer offers battery replacement services. Apple, Google, and Samsung all provide options for battery replacement, either through their own service centers or authorized repair partners. For out-of-warranty devices, third-party repair shops like Best Buy, Staples, or uBreakiFix can replace the battery for a fee. If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, websites like iFixit offer guides for replacing batteries yourself. However, proceed with caution as this can be risky and may void any existing warranties.

Explore Software Updates

Manufacturers often release software updates that can improve battery efficiency. Ensure your phone’s operating system is up to date, as these updates might include optimizations for better power management. While an aging phone battery can be a challenge, these tips can help you extend its life until you’re ready for an upgrade. By adjusting your settings, managing app usage, and considering external battery options or replacements, you can squeeze out more time from your current device. If you follow these strategies, you may find your phone’s battery lasts just a bit longer, making your daily tech life a little smoother.