One of the main ways Apple addresses the issue of premature battery wear is by preventing overcharging. Lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to overcharging, which can lead to fires. Limiting the charge to 80% helps reduce the risk of battery damage from overcharging.
Apple introduced Optimized Battery Charging with iOS 13. This technology uses machine learning to identify the daily charging routine, keeping the charge at 80% and only topping it up to 100% shortly before the user unplugs their phone.
iOS 18 brings new charging limits
With iOS 17, an 80% charge limit option was introduced. Occasionally, the battery is charged to 100% to ensure accurate health and capacity information.
With iOS 18, the operating system will take a more proactive approach, recommending a specific charging limit to users through a notification. The latest update introduces a new set of charging options (85%, 90%, and 95%) to choose from. The charging limit recommendation is also available in Settings > Battery > Charging optimization.
An option that deserves to be extended
In the example below, the iOS 18 beta suggests setting the limit to 85%.
As of the latest iOS 18 beta, this load limitation function is currently only available on the iPhone 15. The option does not appear on iPhone 14 or earlier. Hopefully Apple will expand this feature, as it will help extend the life of older devices.
iOS 18’s Enhanced Battery Charging Limits: A Step Towards Longer Battery Life
Apple has always been committed to extending the life of its devices, especially when it comes to battery health. One of the core strategies they employ is to prevent overcharging, a notorious issue that can significantly reduce the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries.
Preventing Overcharging with Optimized Battery Charging
With iOS 13, Apple introduced Optimized Battery Charging, a technology utilizing machine learning to analyze your daily charging patterns. The feature works by keeping the charge at 80% and only topping it up to 100% right before you typically unplug your phone. This intelligent approach helps minimize the impact of overcharging on battery degradation.
iOS 18 Brings More Control and Personalized Recommendations
iOS 18 takes this concept further by offering greater user control and personalized recommendations for charging limits. In previous versions, you had the option to limit your phone’s charge to 80%. However, with iOS 18, the operating system now presents you with a broader range of options – 85%, 90%, and 95% – to better suit your needs and preferences.
Furthermore, iOS 18 adds a charging limit recommendation feature which analyzes your usage patterns and suggests the optimal charging limit for your individual needs. This recommendation appears as a notification within the Settings > Battery > Charging optimization menu.
The Benefits of Setting a Charging Limit
- Extended Battery Life: By limiting the charge, you prevent your battery from experiencing excessive stress caused by overcharging, ultimately extending its life.
- Reduced Battery Degradation: Keeping the battery below 100% charge minimizes the rate of battery degradation and ensures a longer lifespan for your iPhone.
- Enhanced Overall Battery Health: By reducing stress on the battery, you are contributing to its overall health, ensuring it performs at its peak for longer.
iOS 18: A Step Forward for iPhone 15 Users
Currently, the enhanced charging limit feature is only available on the iPhone 15 models. While this is beneficial for the latest devices, we hope Apple will consider extending this valuable feature to older iPhones as well.
Here’s why:
- Expanding the Feature to Older iPhones: By expanding the charging limit feature to iPhones from earlier generations, Apple would be taking an extra step to ensure the longevity of its products, promoting user satisfaction and fostering a loyal customer base.
- Boosting Battery Performance: Older iPhones typically experience a noticeable decrease in battery performance over time. The charging limit feature would help mitigate this issue, extending the life of these phones.
- Environmental Benefits: By prolonging the lifespan of your iPhone, you are contributing to reducing electronic waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to technology.
Conclusion: A Promising Feature for the Future of iPhone Batteries
iOS 18’s enhanced battery charging limits are a positive step in the direction of extending battery life. The combination of user control, personalized recommendations, and the potential for expansion to older iPhones suggests that Apple is committed to prioritizing battery health and providing users with the tools they need to make informed choices regarding their devices. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in this area that will empower users to make responsible decisions regarding battery usage and ultimately enjoy a longer lifespan from their iPhones.
