Debunking 9 Outdated Phone Charging Myths for Lithium-Ion Batteries
An article from Quartz discusses nine outdated myths about phone charging that pertain to older battery technologies, clarifying their irrelevance for contemporary lithium-ion batteries. These myths include the necessity to drain the battery to 0% before recharging, the avoidance of overnight charging, the exclusive use of original chargers, fears surrounding fast charging, the need to turn off the device while charging, using the phone during charging, charging through a laptop's USB port, periodic battery calibration, and the removal of phone cases during charging. Lithium-ion batteries do not experience the 'memory effect' and are negatively impacted by extreme charge levels. Modern smartphones feature charge management systems, and USB-C with Power Delivery supports safe use of third-party chargers. Current recommendations suggest maintaining charge levels between 20% and 80% and using reliable chargers.
Key facts
- Nickel-cadmium and early nickel-metal-hydride batteries suffered from the 'memory effect,' making full discharge cycles practical advice.
- Lithium-ion batteries do not exhibit memory effect and are stressed by extreme charge levels (near 0% and 100%).
- Modern smartphones have charge management circuitry that stops active charging at 100% and trickle-feeds to offset natural discharge.
- USB-C with USB Power Delivery has standardized charging, making reputable third-party chargers safe.
- Fast charging systems include thermal management that reduces charging speed if temperature rises.
- Using a phone while charging is safe with genuine, undamaged equipment; incidents are associated with counterfeit or damaged components.
- Charging via a laptop's USB port is slower but not harmful to the battery.
- Battery percentage indicators are managed by sophisticated algorithms, making calibration rituals unnecessary.
- Phone cases do not significantly affect overheating due to built-in thermal management.
Entities
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Sources
- Quartz —