Mobile device maintenance: Tips for battery life and hardware checks

Experts and consumer protection agencies provide guidance on maximizing the lifespan and efficiency of mobile devices and laptops.

To preserve smartphone battery health, specialists recommend the 20-80 rule, suggesting that charge levels be maintained between 20 percent and 80 percent to avoid chemical aging. While some organizations like TÜV SÜD suggest a slightly narrower window of 30 to 70 percent, avoiding deep discharges and constant full charges is key to preventing capacity loss.

For Samsung Galaxy users, utilizing dark mode on AMOLED screens can reduce energy consumption by up to 47 percent at maximum brightness. Other efficiency measures include reducing screen refresh rates and managing background processes.

When purchasing refurbished hardware, consumers are advised to verify the hardware condition, battery health, and repair history. For laptops, essential checks include inspecting the display, SSD, keyboard, and ensuring there are no BIOS or firmware locks. In the commercial trade of used smartphones, buyers are entitled to a one-year statutory warranty and a 14-day right of withdrawal for online purchases.