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Check out some simple tips to increase your cell phone battery life

Smartphones are so common and essential these days, and one of the biggest problems for their users is their batteries, which after a while, without exception, start to run out of capacity. Currently, most cell phone batteries are made from lithium ions, a common model in notebooks, electric bicycles, tablets, cameras and other electrical devices. Most manufacturers of this type of battery promise 80% capacity for 300 to 1000 full charge and discharge cycles. After that, they will wear out and their capacity will diminish.

This decrease in battery capacity is one of the main reasons for changing devices for a new one - that is, it is an important factor for programmed obsolescence, which is nothing more than a technique used by manufacturers to sell more products. It consists of producing items already establishing the end of their useful life (learn more about "What is programmed obsolescence?").

In addition, the decrease in battery life leads to its early disposal, which contributes to waste generation. Although it can be recycled, the Li-ion battery has elements that can be harmful to the environment if disposed of incorrectly (see how to recycle your cell phone batteries).

But calm down... There are ways to extend the life of cell phone batteries. Let's go to them:

1. Read the manual

Try to read your cell phone manual when buying it. In it, you will have indications about its use and preservation. In case of doubts about your care, look for the place where the product was purchased.

2. Fully charge your new battery

When buying a new cell phone or a new battery, it is necessary to fully charge it before using it in order for it to obtain its maximum charge. Lithium-ion batteries, which are the most common ones on the market today, should be charged for six hours the first time, even if your cell phone indicates that the battery is already at 100%.

3. Do not reach 0%

By completely discharging a Li-ion battery, its lifespan decreases.

4. Avoid overheating your battery

Batteries work best at a certain temperature, when we exceed this limit, their internal resistance decreases and chemical metabolism increases, thus improving battery performance. However, this condition also shortens battery life. Thus, you should avoid carrying your cell phone for a long time in your pocket or leaving it exposed inside a hot car, for example. In cold weather, the effect is reversed: lower performance, but longer battery life.

5. Store it with some cargo

If you are not going to use the battery for some time, store it with some level of charge (around 50% is ideal). Try to store it in a cool place. A good tip is to put it in a container inside the fridge (not the freezer).