Smartphone battery safety and maintenance tips

Experts are providing guidance on the safe and efficient management of smartphone batteries, particularly regarding older devices and daily charging habits.

Regarding older smartphones stored for long periods, Mouser Electronics warns of increased fire risks. Lithium-ion batteries can suffer from internal damage or swelling that is not visible, leading to thermal instability when charging. Additionally, chemical degradation can cause electrolyte leakage, and outdated software may result in data loss or corruption when attempting to access old files.

For ongoing battery maintenance, TÜV SÜD advises against allowing lithium-ion batteries to undergo deep discharge, as completely emptying a battery can cause significant wear. To maximize longevity, experts recommend maintaining a charge level between 30 and 70 percent. They also suggest avoiding overnight charging and removing chargers once the device has reached its desired capacity to prevent unnecessary stress on the battery.