Modern smartphones are a substantial investment, to say the least. This is especially true of the flagship models that dominate the market each year. The advanced features frequently attributed to the best phones quickly inflate the price tag. While innovative technology justifies the high price point, there is an understandable desire to make each mobile device last as long as possible. The following tips and tricks will improve your phone’s overall lifespan.
The key to making your phone last is regularly following some basic care and maintenance steps. Consistent upkeep and careful use will prevent undue wear and tear over the long term. You can avoid spills, drops, and other accidents with a bit of mindfulness towards the computer in your pocket. Here are more tips to make your phone last longer.
Tip 1. Go With a Durable Phone Case and Screen Protector
Arguably, the most important tip for increasing the life of your phone is to place a protective cover around it. There is a huge market for both Apple and Android phone cases. You must be careful to choose a cover compatible with your device. The wide selection ensures you’ll find one that suits your style. You can also take advantage of additional features that make life more convenient. For instance, you can get an iPhone case that is compatible with MagSafe charging.
While preparing to secure your phone, you may as well go the extra mile to help the environment. By using eco-friendly phone cases, you can make a difference in how much waste is produced. Since mobile phones and accessories are consistently replaced by most users, moving towards sustainable products is a wise decision that will lead to a brighter future for everyone on the planet.
Finally, don’t forget to purchase a screen protector as well. They’re available as a sheet or a liquid. This defensive layer takes a few seconds to apply and prevents the display from cracking should you drop your phone.
Tip 2. Always Download Operating System and App Updates
Ignoring the notification that a new update is available to download can be extremely tempting. You may be busy with something else, or you may not feel motivated at that particular moment. However, it is worth setting aside time to keep everything up to date on your phone.
Most updates improve performance behind the scenes or improve security. The end user rarely thinks about how impactful they can be. Some glitches can overwork your processor and even cause overheating. Your best bet is to avoid these scenarios entirely by updating your apps and firmware each time you are prompted.
Tip 3. Keep the Exterior Clean
Your phone travels with you wherever you go, and this journey tends to produce dirt, dust and grime that collect over time. The debris can slowly work its way into the internals of your device and damage it. Your screen will also become less responsive as it collects foreign matter. A simple wipe-down with a cloth once a week or so is an effective way to mitigate the buildup of debris. Occasionally, you may want to take the extra step of removing your case and clearing out any dirt that is nestled underneath. You won’t need to do this often, especially if you do the regular wiping method mentioned above.
Tip 4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Your smartphone does not perform well in extreme conditions. While some devices are waterproof, none are designed to withstand intense heat or freezing cold for very long. Avoid placing your phone in direct sunlight or leaving it in the car on a bright summer day. Likewise, you will want to bring it inside during the coldest days of winter. Reducing internal heat is important as well. Take note of how long you have been using resource-intensive apps, such as those that stream videos or games with high-definition graphics. Give your phone a rest if you notice any part of it becoming warm while using an app.
Tip 5. Manage Your Storage Space
Although your phone has an advertised internal storage capacity, keeping it far from that ceiling is wise. As you get closer to your phone’s storage limit, performance will slow to a crawl. Files and apps take longer to find because there is so much more data to sift through than when you first purchased the device. If you place the extra stress on your processor for too long, it will give out that much faster.
Delete old apps you never use if you encroach upon the storage limit. Another great tip is to move your photos and videos to a cloud storage server or SD card. You can stream music and videos instead of storing them directly on your device. Backing up your files is one of the best things you can do for your phone, even if you have plenty of internal storage remaining.
Tip 6. Repair It Yourself or See a Professional
A significant number of smartphone issues can be repaired by those with the proper skills. For instance, problems with charging can often be fixed by merely replacing the battery. If you are confident in your own abilities, you can purchase a DIY repair kit and then watch some YouTube tutorials pertaining to your specific phone model. Don’t worry if mechanical repairs are not your area of expertise. Numerous professionals will fix your phone for a fraction of the price of buying a new unit. Search for mobile repair shops and other related businesses to find a suitable technician.
Know When To Upgrade
Of course, every phone eventually dies or becomes obsolete. Only you can determine when it’s time to upgrade. But by using these tips, you can use and enjoy your phone for as long as possible.
