When does your phone battery need replacing?

A phone battery weakens over time and with every charge cycle; that's normal. What matters is knowing when replacing it beats putting up with it.

Signs of a weak battery

• A full charge doesn't last your day with normal use.
• The phone shuts down suddenly while the percentage is still high.
• The percentage jumps, from 30% to 5% for example.
• Noticeable heat while charging or during light use.

How to check battery health

iPhone: open Settings, then Battery, then Battery Health & Charging. If the maximum capacity is below 80% or you see a Service message, it's time for a new battery.

Samsung: open the Samsung Members app, go to Diagnostics and run the battery status check.

Other Android phones: some show battery health in Settings under Battery or Device care. If yours doesn't, we'll check it for you.

When it can't wait

If the phone looks swollen, or the screen or back cover is lifting, stop charging and using it and bring it in. A swollen battery shouldn't be left in the phone.

Tips for a longer battery life

• Keep your phone out of the heat, especially in a parked car.
• Use an original or trusted charger.
• You don't need to drain the battery fully before charging.

Need a new battery? Order phone battery replacement.