As summer approaches, iPhone owners are encouraged not to make common mistakes that can ruin their smartphones.
Trips to the beach are the essence of summer, but they can spell disaster for our devices, experts warn.
WHAT CAN GO WRONG?
For example, fine sand from the beach can get into all the ports and crevices of your phone.
This can scratch the delicate screen and damage the buttons and charging port.
If that’s not enough to scare you, salt water is conductive, meaning it can interfere with your phone’s internal circuitry.
Therefore, a dip in the ocean or even a few splashes can cause corrosion, power issues, and even permanent damage.
Lastly, vitamin D may be good for us, but the sun’s powerful rays can cause our devices to overheat.
Given everything that can go wrong, experts recommend completely unplugging your device while at the beach — but that’s easier said than done.
So it’s best to take preventative measures like using a waterproof case and keeping your phone out of the sun.
However, if something goes wrong, wireless carrier AT&T has shared some tips on what to do.
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WHAT TO DO IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO YOUR PHONE
Accidents happen, but don’t panic! Below is a step-by-step guide to reviving your phone after water damage.
First, turn off your device and remove the battery if possible to avoid serious damage or corrosion.
Then dry the device by gently wiping it with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any debris or liquids.
Do not rub as this can push the liquid further inside.
Once dry, open the Sim tray and gently tap the phone against your palm with the openings facing down.
Find a dry, well-ventilated area for your phone. Consider placing it in front of a fan that blows cool air to speed up drying.
Apple’s Official MagSafe Guidelines
Here’s the official advice quoted directly from Apple’s support memo…
- Your MagSafe Charger is designed for faster, more efficient charging with iPhone 15 models, iPhone 14 models, iPhone 13 models, iPhone 12 models, and Apple MagSafe accessories.
- When charging a non-MagSafe Qi compatible device with a MagSafe charger, power is reduced and charging times may be slower than with a typical Qi charger.
- Do not place credit cards, security badges, passports, or key chains between your iPhone and the MagSafe charger, as this may damage the magnetic strips or RFID chips on these items.
- If you have a case that contains any of these sensitive items, remove them before charging or make sure they are not between the back of the device and the charger.
- If your iPhone is connected to a MagSafe charger and powered by a Lightning port, your iPhone will charge via the Lightning connector.
- As with other wireless chargers, your iPhone or MagSafe charger may get a little warmer while your iPhone charges. To extend battery life, if the battery becomes very hot, the software may limit charging above 80%.
- If you keep your iPhone in a leather case while charging with the MagSafe charger, the case may show circular impressions due to the compression of the leather. This is normal, but if you are concerned about this, we suggest using a non-leather case.
Leave your phone there for at least five hours before trying to charge it with a Lightning or USB-C cable.
If it does not turn on immediately, repeat steps 1 to 4 after a full charge.
WHAT NOT TO DO
You may have heard that rice can help your phone dry faster.
However, using rice to absorb water can push dust and rice particles into the phone’s ports.
Likewise, avoid using a hairdryer as the heat can damage your phone.
BONUS TIPS
If you’re at the beach, find a shady spot for your phone to minimize excess heat and battery drain.
You can reduce battery usage (and keep your phone cooler) by reducing screen brightness and turning off sounds and location services.
Limiting notifications and turning on power saving mode can also benefit your device.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
