Debunking the Biggest Smartphone Battery Myths

Smartphones are omnipresent in our lives, yet the science behind their batteries remains a mystery, leading to many misconceptions. This article is dedicated to debunking many of these myths, explaining the science behind them, and offering advice on extending the lifespan of smartphone batteries.

Is There More Charge in the Battery Than Displayed?

"Nothing in life is to be feared, only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less." - Marie Curie.

True. Despite the battery percentage displayed on your smartphone, there is more potential charge. However, utilizing this extra charge can significantly reduce the overall lifespan of the battery. This is due to a trade-off by manufacturers to ensure the battery lasts through hundreds or even thousands of charge cycles without internal damage. For this reason, manufacturers limit the amount of juice that batteries can discharge.

Does Charging in Airplane Mode Make it Faster?

Proper (Kind of). The theory is that since your phone works less in airplane mode, it should charge faster. However, the difference in speed is minimal, with a 2014 CNET trial finding that airplane mode only shortened the charging time by four minutes.

Does Using Unofficial Chargers Damage Your Phone?

True. Not all phone chargers are created equal, and using off-brand chargers can potentially damage your phone's battery life. These chargers may not have the rigorous safety settings that limit the current delivered and stop the phone from charging when the battery is full.

Does Replacing Your Phone Battery Give it a New Lease of Life?

True. Over time, your phone’s battery degrades. A smartphone battery typically works at optimal capacity for about two to three years. Most smartphone manufacturers don’t want you to know, but you can change out your phone battery.

Does Charging Through Your Computer Damage the Battery?

False. Contrarily, slower charging is beneficial for batteries, as it puts less strain on the lithium ions and the structures accepting them, thereby causing less potential damage.

Does Powering Off a Device Occasionally Help Preserve Battery Life?

False. Modern batteries can read their state no matter their charge level, and when your device isn’t in use, the strain on the battery is almost the same as if it was off altogether.