Lagos — Smartphone users worldwide often face a familiar frustration: after roughly two years of use, the device that once lasted a full day struggles to make it past lunchtime. Experts say this decline is normal for modern lithium-ion batteries, which power most smartphones.
According to Bill Stein, a tech support engineer at Dell Technologies, most smartphone batteries are designed for about two years of typical usage. “Daily charging cycles and internal chemical aging mean the battery will inevitably lose performance over time,” he said. For many, the simplest solution is to trade in the device or sell it for a new one.
For users who want to keep their phones longer, battery replacement is an option. Android users can often find repair shops that replace batteries for around $100, which may be cheaper than buying a new device.
But not all battery problems are due to the battery itself. Users frequently overlook background apps, which continue draining power even when a device appears idle. Fred White, an iPad user, explained that completely shutting down apps can improve performance and extend battery life.
Other technical solutions include performing a battery health scan to detect dead cells. For minor issues, a “battery flush” — fully discharging the phone, recharging to 100 per cent, and clearing caches — can help. Users are also advised to disable power-hungry features like GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi scanning, and long screen-timeouts.
Experts note that age matters as much as capacity. Batteries older than four years may fail even if health readings are high. David Simpson, a Quora contributor, advised weighing the cost of battery replacement against a new device: “If the two costs are close, buy a new phone. If the difference is considerable, just replace the battery.”
For iPhone users, batteries typically begin showing noticeable decline around 80–81 per cent capacity, with Apple recommending replacement below 80 per cent. However, practical use matters. If the device still meets daily needs, replacement may not be urgent. Experts caution that unauthorized battery replacements can compromise water resistance and lifespan.
Simple habits can also prolong battery life. Henry Jeynes, a tech user, recommends monitoring apps with high CPU usage and turning off features like Bluetooth when not in use.
Ultimately, users are encouraged to understand their device, monitor battery health, and adopt smart usage habits. If performance issues persist, consulting a trained technician ensures proper assessment and safe battery replacement.
