As winter weather arrives and temperatures drop, Lukas Partners PR client UScellular reminds smartphone users about the potential effects extreme cold can have on their devices. While most are aware that high heat can damage smartphones, frigid conditions can be just as problematic, particularly for the lithium-ion batteries that power these devices.
In cold weather, the liquid inside lithium-ion batteries can thicken, which causes the battery to lose power more quickly and potentially impact the functionality of displays, buttons and overall battery life. Extreme cold also can result in the phone shutting down or malfunctioning entirely until it returns to a warmer environment, which can be dangerous in emergency situations.
As cold temperatures arrive, UScellular offers the following tips to help protect your smartphone:
· Keep Your Phone Fully Charged. Cold weather can cause your battery to drain more quickly, so it’s important to keep your device fully charged when traveling. A portable charger, such as the Anker MagGo Power Bank, is a convenient way to keep your phone powered up throughout the day.
· Use a Protective Case. Just as you would not venture outside without a warm jacket, your phone also needs protection from the elements. A durable case, such as the OtterBox Defender Pro Case, acts as a shield against cold air to protect your device’s vital exterior and internal components.
· Keep Your Device Close to Your Body. Your body generates natural heat, which can help prevent your phone from freezing. Store your phone in an inside pocket or a warm area of your coat to shield it from the harsh temperatures.
· Allow Your Device to Warm Up Before Use. If your phone does power off in the cold, do not attempt to turn it back on immediately. Give it time to return to room temperature before restarting and never use direct heat sources, such as a blow dryer, to speed up the process. This could damage the device.