Smartphone batteries typically show significant wear after 1.5 to 2 years of continuous use. However, with some strategic decisions regarding charging and device usage, you can dramatically extend the lifespan of your battery. A crucial aspect of this strategy is limiting the maximum charge to around 80 percent. This guide will walk you through the steps to implement this practice, along with other noteworthy battery optimization features available on Android devices.
Configure Your Android Device to Charge Up to 80 Percent
Limiting battery charge to approximately 80 percent can significantly enhance your battery’s longevity. Lithium-ion batteries, found in the majority of smartphones, are sensitive to the stress caused by high voltage. Prolonged charging at or near 100 percent can increase battery wear, adversely affecting its health over time.
Android users can easily set their device to stop charging once it reaches the 80 percent threshold by enabling the battery optimization feature. Here’s how:
- Access your device’s Settings. Scroll down and select Battery.
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- Tap on Charging Optimization.
- Activate Use Charging Optimization.
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- Select Limit to 80%. Your phone will cease to charge past this point while plugged in.
- For Samsung devices, proceed to Settings -> Battery -> Battery Protection to enact a similar charge limit.
Activate Android Adaptive Charging
In addition to setting a charging limit, enable Google’s Adaptive Charging feature, which optimizes the way your device charges. Instead of rapidly reaching full charge, Adaptive Charging allows your phone to slowly power up, which reduces the time the battery spends in the critical 80 to 100 percent range, thereby slowing down aging.
To enable Adaptive Charging:
- Navigate to Settings -> Battery -> Charging Optimization.
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- Ensure Use Charging Optimization is toggled on.
- Select Adaptive Charging.
With Adaptive Charging activated, your device learns your charging habits and will intelligently regulate charge times, especially if it recognizes your routine, such as when you set an alarm.
Utilize Battery Saver Mode to Reduce Frequent Charging
While controlling how your device charges is vital, it’s equally important to manage how it discharges. Enabling Battery Saver is a practical method for extending battery life by restricting background activities, reducing data usage, and more.
To engage Battery Saver:
- Go to Settings -> Battery.
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- Select Battery Saver.
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- Toggle on Use Battery Saver. Choose between Standard Battery Saver and Extreme Battery Saver, depending on your needs.
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Adaptive Battery: Your Smart Battery Management Solution
The Adaptive Battery feature assists by learning your app usage patterns to optimize performance and conserve battery life when your phone is not in use. For example, it may suspend notifications while in your pocket or lower background consumption during periods of lower activity.
To activate Adaptive Battery:
- Go to Settings -> Battery -> Battery Saver.
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- In the Adaptive Battery section, toggle on Use Adaptive Battery.
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Looking After Your Smartphone Battery
Implementing these tips will extend your Android device’s battery lifespan, ensuring you can use it effectively whenever necessary. Remember that you can also adjust display and usage settings to further save power and consider downloading third-party apps that notify you when your battery reaches optimal charge levels.
Image credit: Canva. All screenshots by Megan Glosson.
More Insights on Battery Optimization
1. How does charging my smartphone to only 80% extend its lifespan?
By keeping the battery at a lower charge, you reduce high-voltage strain on the cells, which significantly slows the aging process and maintains overall battery performance.
2. Is Adaptive Charging effective for all Android devices?
Adaptive Charging is designed for modern Android devices running compatible software. Be sure to check if your device supports this feature for optimal results.
3. Can third-party apps help with battery conservation?
Yes, numerous third-party apps are available that can monitor battery usage, alert you when charging is complete, and automatically adjust settings for enhanced battery management.
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