Six Tips for Extending iPhone Battery Life

A guest article by Sachin from Powertraveller.
For those who rely on their iPhone for business and work, extending the battery life of their phone can be an essential requirement rather than a source of mere inconvenience. Carrying an additional battery or using a solar battery charger are supplementary steps you can take to ensure you’re always powered up and connected.
1. Turn Off or Limit These Applications and Settings
Push Email – leaving push email turned on means your phone is always connected to the server.

  • Push Notification – if you have a lot of applications that support push notification, this can seriously drain your battery.
  • Fetch – turn off automatic fetch if manual fetching of emails, contacts and calendars is not a problem. Alternatively, you can reduce the frequency at which your phone fetches.
  • Location Services such as Maps, Camera and Compass – switching these off will definitely save power.
  • Wi-Fi – if there is no need to keep scanning for Wi-Fi, be sure to have it turned off.
  • 3G – Go to Settings > General > Network and set Enable 3G to Off.
  • Bluetooth – if you rarely use Bluetooth, such as with a headset or car kit, keep this turned off.
  • Vibration – turn vibration off, especially if you play games.

2. Other Setting to Watch
Equaliser Settings – if you frequently listen to music on your iPhone turn off the equaliser settings to extend battery life.

  • Auto Lock Settings – one minute for the auto lock is a good time frame. This will have the phone automatically switch off the screen after one minute of inactivity.
  • Screen Brightness – screen brightness is one of the biggest drainers of your iPhone battery. Dim the screen brightness to a degree that is comfortable for your eyes.
  • Other Background Services – turn off all background programs and services that are not being used.

3. Keep Software Updated
 
Make sure you have the latest software updates on your phone. This not only helps with syncing with your Mac or PC, it can assist with extending battery life by making all applications and settings work more effectively.
 
4. Buy Songs and Applications on iTunes
If you have purchased songs and apps through your phone, you will have noticed the effect on your battery life. Purchase through iTunes on your PC or Mac where possible to avoid taxing your battery during extensive download times.
5. Battery Maintenance
 
Regular Charge Cycle
For the best battery performance, make sure go through a regular charge cycle at least once a month. This can be done by completely draining and then fully charging the battery. Fully charging the battery synchronises the battery with the phone fuel gauge, allowing the phone to “remember” what is full capacity.
Storage
Limit exposure to sunlight or other sources of heat. Excessive heat can damage the lifespan of your battery and affect its performance. Keep your iPhone out of the car, including the glove box, and out of direct sunlight on hot days.
6. Airplane Mode in Low Coverage Areas
If you are out of range or in a low coverage area, switch to airplane mode to maximise battery life. Airplane mode turns everything off except for Wi-Fi, so you will not be able to make calls. If you travel a lot, a solar charger can help you recharge your phone on the road.
 


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