Smartphones, including iPhones, have built-in safeguards to prevent true overcharging (battery exploding), but there can still be negative effects from constantly leaving them plugged in.
Apple has been working hard to prevent iPhone battery wear. Overcharging has been a big problem for iPhones. To fix this, Apple has added features to help users protect their batteries.
Apple’s Overcharging Prevention
One way Apple helps is by preventing overcharging. Overcharging lithium-ion batteries can cause metallic lithium to form inside the battery. This can be dangerous and lead to fires. Apple limits charging to 80% to reduce this risk.
In iOS 13, Apple introduced Optimized Battery Charging. This feature extends battery life by reducing the time the battery stays fully charged. The phone learns your daily routine and holds the charge at 80%. It only charges to 100% just before you usually unplug your phone.
iOS 17 added an 80% charge limit option. It stops charging at 80% and starts again when the charge drops to 75%. Sometimes, the battery charges to 100% to keep the battery’s health data accurate. This feature helps users extend their battery life without much effort.
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Enhanced Charging Options in iOS 18
iOS 18 offers more ways to protect the battery. The new update suggests specific charge limits through notifications. Users can now choose to charge their phone to 85%, 90%, or 95%. These options are found in the Settings app under Battery > Charging. For example, the iOS 18 beta might suggest an 85% charge limit.
The Rationale Behind Charge Limits
Charging to 80% is best for battery health. But some people need more battery capacity. Newer batteries can handle higher charges better than old ones. Older batteries are more sensitive and wear out faster when overcharged.
Availability and Future Plans
Right now, the charge limit feature in iOS 18 is only on the iPhone 15 series. It is not available on iPhone 14 or older models. There is hope that Apple will add this feature to older phones too. This would help keep older phones working longer.
Conclusion
Apple’s efforts to improve battery health show their commitment to users. Features like Optimized Battery Charging and charge limits give users control over their battery health. These advancements help users get the most out of their devices while protecting their batteries. As Apple continues to innovate, users will benefit from better battery management and longer-lasting devices.
