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Why your phone shuts down in cold: Useful tips to avoid it

Why your phone shuts down in cold: Useful tips to avoid it Illustrative photo (Photo: Freepik)
Author: Daria Shekina

Winter often brings complaints from many people about their phones frequently shutting down outdoors in sub-zero temperatures. Before searching for solutions to address the issue, it's essential to understand the reasons behind what's happening, according to the Itechua website.

Reason behind phone shutdowns

Experts say that the phone shuts down due to low air temperature and its impact on the battery.

Severe cold leads to decreased conductivity of lithium ions. As a result, the battery fails to supply voltage and shuts down.

The phone can only be turned on after the gadget owner enters a building.

How to resolve the issue

To prevent rapid discharge of the phone in the cold, it's necessary to:

  • Keep the phone in your pocket when it's freezing outside. The smartphone will warm up from body heat, preserving the battery charge.
  • Try to minimize outdoor calls. When a urgent call is needed, use earphones. Even Bluetooth earphones drain the phone less than the low temperature.
  • Avoid taking photos in the cold and minimize taking the phone out of your pocket.
  • Do not charge the phone immediately after exposure to cold. Wait until the phone warms up to room temperature, then connect the charger. This allows the battery to adapt better and reduces instances of shutdowns in the cold.

Experts advise keeping the phone in an inner pocket closer to the body. Alternatively, you can purchase a special heating case.

If you have no choice but to use your phone outside in the cold, you can buy a pair of touchscreen gloves with fingertip inserts. They transmit electrical impulses from the skin to the mobile phone display.

Avoid breathing on the phone if it shuts down in the cold, as there's a high chance condensation will form inside and corrode the contacts. Also, avoid attempting to heat the phone with a hairdryer, as rapid heating can be harmful to the gadget.

How to protect your phone from winter damage

Investing in a high-quality protective case is essential to ensure your phone survives in cold conditions. It protects the phone from falls, impacts, and extreme temperatures.

Previously, we reported on the passwords that malicious actors can quickly crack on your phone.

Also, find out why your mobile phone is slow to charge.