7 Common Mistakes That Shorten Your Smartphone’s Lifespan: How to Avoid Them

Merakyat.org – Do you want to extend the life of your smartphone? Let’s start by addressing the common mistakes that may be damaging your device.

Your smartphone is likely your constant companion, serving as your alarm clock, connection to family and colleagues, and a storage space for cherished memories, among other things. It’s understandable that you’d want to preserve this important device for as long as possible. To achieve this goal, it’s important to recognize and avoid the everyday habits that can shorten your phone’s lifespan.

7 Common Mistakes That Shorten Your Smartphone’s Lifespan: How to Avoid Them

1. Extreme Temperatures Can Damage Your Smartphone

Leaving your smartphone in a hot car, charging it under your pillow, or using energy-intensive apps in direct sunlight can harm your device. Lithium-ion batteries, which are used in modern smartphones, don’t perform well when exposed to extreme temperatures. To avoid damage, it’s best to use your device in moderate temperatures and allow it to cool off if it gets too hot.

2. Using an Incompatible Charger

Not all chargers are created equal. While a charger with a connector that fits your phone may charge it, it may not do so efficiently. In addition, using an incompatible charger can damage your device’s charging port or reduce your battery’s lifespan. It’s important to use a charger that is certified by the manufacturer and has the correct output for your device.

3. Downloading Harmful Applications

While it may be tempting to download apps from unofficial sources or third-party app stores, doing so can expose your device to malware. Malicious apps can infect your device with viruses and spyware that can steal your personal information, passwords, and banking details. It’s safer to download your apps from official stores that have a screening process to prevent malicious apps from appearing.

4. Performing a Manual Cleaning Process on Background Applications

Closing all the apps running in the background on your phone to improve its performance is unnecessary and can do more harm than good. Most modern smartphones are designed to handle multiple workloads and keep apps in a low-power state until they’re needed. It’s better to leave them running in the background than to force-close them, as this uses less power and puts less strain on your device.

5. Failing to Install or Apply Available Updates or Patches

Ignoring software updates can expose your phone to malware attacks and cause it to malfunction or perform slowly. These updates not only improve the user experience but often include security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities. It’s important to download and install updates as soon as possible.

6. Accessing The Internet Through Public Wi-Fi Networks

Using free public Wi-Fi can expose your phone to malware and make it vulnerable to hackers. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are often unencrypted or have weak security measures, making it easy for bad actors to steal personal information like passwords and banking details. If you must use public Wi-Fi, connect to password-protected and encrypted networks only.

7. Inappropriate or Suboptimal Charging Practices

Allowing your battery to run down or fully charge to 100% can reduce its performance over time. It’s best to keep your phone charged between 30%-80% to use fewer charge cycles and improve your battery’s lifespan. Additionally, charging your phone in a cool or well-ventilated place can prevent it from overheating and causing permanent battery damage.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can prolong your smartphone’s lifespan and enjoy using it for longer.