Device Care: Simple but Effective Ways to Maintain Your Smartphone

Smartphones continue to improve over the years, with better cameras and processing power. However, these advancements come with a price. Flagships, which contain the best that a manufacturer has to offer, continue to hike in price. The first iPhone’s starting price was around $499. Now, the base iPhone 11 retails at $699. The same goes for its biggest Android competitor, Samsung. Its first Galaxy S phone retailed at around $400. Now, the base S20 costs a whopping $999. 

If you want to make the most of your money, you need to keep your current smartphone in good condition, at least for a few years. This is because a replacement can put a hole in your wallet or bank account. Here are ways to care for your device correctly: 

Buy Protective Gear

Even if your smartphone is made of aluminum and durable glass, falls can still break it. Buy a case from a trusted brand to keep your phone’s externals secure. If possible, have a tempered glass screen protector installed to ensure your phone’s delicate screen system doesn’t crack from sudden impacts. While these accessories may cost a fair bit of cash, you won’t regret investing in them if your phone suddenly takes a tall dive towards the concrete floor.

Keep the Battery in Good Condition

Your battery is one of the most critical parts of your phone, as it powers the whole device. Avoid using it while charging, as this creates a parasitic load. Parasitic loads cause the battery to drain while it’s charging. This can cause long-term damage to the battery. Keep your phone away from high temperatures, like on a car’s dashboard. This can not only cause the device to overheat and turn off, but it may also alter the battery’s chemicals, causing it to bloat and even explode. Luckily, even phones with non-removable backs can have their batteries replaced by cell phone repair specialists. 

Keep the Device Out of Water

Some smartphones may have official ingress protection ratings like IP67 and IP68. These mean that these devices are resistant to dust and can survive being immersed in water for up to a meter. However, it doesn’t mean that you can take it to the pool and take underwater photos with it or wash it in the sink. These act as more of insurance that your phone won’t get damaged by the occasional rain or splash of water. Companies like Apple don’t cover moisture damage in their warranty, so don’t push your luck!

Use Official and Updated Software

Jailbreaking and modified smartphone operating systems may unlock a variety of capabilities, but they may also open your phone to a range of security and performance issues. Mainstream smartphone makers have integrated security software in them, protecting your phone from performance-hogging and privacy-breaking viruses.  Official operating system updates may also come with security patches that patch up any vulnerabilities in your phone’s software. You should update when you can. 

A smartphone is one of the most expensive devices you’ll buy. As such, you should take great care of it to avoid breaking the bank for replacement. Make your phone last for years with these suggestions. This way, you can upgrade only when you’re financially ready for one.

Meta Title: Device Care: How to Extend the Life of Your Smartphone

Meta Description: Breaking your smartphone can be stressful, as replacements cost a fortune. Here are some simple but effective ways to extend the life of your smartphone.

Tags: