SAMSUNG users are encouraged not to break the ‘20% rule’ – or risk affecting battery performance forever.
It used to be common advice to let your phone’s battery drain completely before charging it again.
However, completely discharging the lithium-ion battery in newer devices will almost certainly reduce its lifespan.
For this reason, it’s best not to let the battery drop below 20% before connecting a charger.
If you let your phone die, it’s best to do it once or twice a year — although most experts agree there’s no reason to do it intentionally.
Besides the 20% rule, there are other easy ways to reduce battery drain and keep your device healthy.
Adjusting the screen timeout and screen brightness settings can substantially increase battery life.
Reduce the brightness setting by opening the notifications menu and using the slider to adjust the brightness.
Samsung smartphones also have a power saving mode that closes all unused apps to boost battery life.
And while it may seem logical to leave your device in this mode all the time, know that it limits the device’s performance.
It is advisable to check if you have apps like email that sync regularly or check for updates.
Limit the frequency with which these applications The update can help improve battery life. This setting can be adjusted within individual applications.
Content that keeps the device active for a long period of time, such as streaming applications or mobile games, can quickly drain the battery.
If you are using too much energy applications as navigation software while you’re on the go, consider investing on a rechargeable battery.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth also consume power when regularly checking for signal, so turning them off can help your device last longer.
It is also recommended to disable them when not in use from a security perspective, as this can defend your data from nosy hackers and prevent Wi-Fi network attacks.
You can disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and location tracking by opening the drop-down menus on your device and tapping the corresponding icon.
It’s also worth checking your cell phone signal, as your device will consume more power to communicate with your network operator in areas of poor reception.
Just turn off mobile data if you don’t need it.
A myth says that leaving batteries in the freezer helps them last longer, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
These extreme conditions can cause irreparable damage to your device’s battery – and that goes for temperatures at both ends of the spectrum.
Definitely avoid the freezer and don’t leave your smartphone in the glove box or drawer on sweltering hot days.
Manufacturers recommend keeping devices between 32 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, or 0 and 35 degrees Celsius.
Anything above or below this range is outside safe operating temperatures.
If you don’t plan to use your device for a while, make sure it has at least 50% battery power before putting it away.
It is also crucial to ensure you are using an appropriate charger as the amperage differs between them.
Additionally, a faulty or incompatible charger may prevent your device from charging fully.
Samsung encourages customers to use a branded charger, preferably the one that comes with your device.
Samsung charging tip – how to charge better
Here’s Samsung’s official advice…
To get the most out of your smartphone’s battery, you’ll need to charge it properly.
Most smartphones have a lithium-ion battery that lasts longer when charged regularly.
Unlike the nickel batteries used in older phones, lithium-ion batteries work best when kept above 50% charge.
Repeatedly allowing the battery to fully discharge may shorten its lifespan and decrease its overall capacity.
If this happens, you will need to charge the battery more frequently and it may only last a few hours before needing to be charged, for example.
Leaving your phone connected to the charger (when the phone is fully charged) while using it can shorten the battery life if you do it repeatedly.
If you need to replace the charger, check whether the amperage of the new charger is sufficient.
The wattage of where you plug your device in will also affect charging time.
Charging your device directly from a power outlet will charge it faster than if you plug it into your laptop, for example
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