Charles Esther
Even though modern smartphones like the iPhone 16 series are built with durable materials such as Gorilla Glass and aluminum, they are not completely immune to damage.
A single drop onto a hard or pointed surface can easily crack your device’s front or back glass.
Using a protective case and screen protector is the most effective way to prevent expensive repairs.
For instance, a simple back cover costing $10 could have saved me $250 when I accidentally broke my iPhone XR’s back glass.
A screen protector also prevents scratches caused by items like keys or coins in your pocket, keeping your display pristine.
Investing in both a phone case and a screen guard ensures your smartphone remains in top condition for years.
Replace a Degraded Battery to Restore Performance
No matter how large the battery, it will naturally degrade over time.
Signs include reduced battery life, longer charging times, and overheating.
iPhone users can check battery health in Settings under “Battery Health & Charging,” while most Android users need third-party apps like DevCheck.
If battery health drops below 80% on iPhones or shows as “Bad” on Android, replacement is recommended.
Replacing a battery is significantly cheaper than buying a new phone, as illustrated by my Galaxy S24 battery replacement costing $89 compared to a $699 new device.
Clean Your Smartphone Ports Regularly
Dirt and debris can accumulate in charging and headphone ports, causing connection problems.
For example, a blocked charging port may prevent your phone from charging properly or result in intermittent connection issues.
Inspect ports with a flashlight and clean them using compressed air or a toothpick carefully.
Routine cleaning every few weeks ensures smooth charging and uninterrupted connectivity.
Remove Unnecessary Apps and Files
Installing too many apps or storing excessive files reduces available storage and slows your smartphone.
Old apps, photos, videos, and other files should be deleted or moved to cloud storage.
Clearing unused items improves both storage capacity and overall device performance.
Be Cautious With Software Updates
While updates are essential for new smartphones, older models may experience slower performance due to planned obsolescence.
For instance, updating a Samsung Galaxy S21 to the latest One UI version may cause lag as new AI features consume system resources.
Only install updates on older devices if they resolve specific issues, rather than automatically downloading every update.
Avoid Rooting or Jailbreaking Your Phone
Rooting Android devices or jailbreaking iPhones provides advanced features, but it also exposes your smartphone to malware and voids manufacturer warranties.
Malicious software can exploit rooted devices, potentially causing severe damage.
Staying with the official software ensures maximum security and manufacturer support.
Restart Your Smartphone Regularly
Restarting your smartphone helps clear cluttered RAM, improving speed and performance.
It also removes potential exploits planted by malicious actors, enhancing device security.
Modern phones may only need a monthly restart, while older devices should be restarted weekly to maintain optimal performance.
Follow These Tips to Extend Smartphone Lifespan
Most modern devices come with fast processors and strong security, allowing 3–4 years of reliable use without upgrades.
By protecting your phone, maintaining battery health, cleaning ports, managing storage, and being cautious with updates, you can significantly extend your smartphone’s useful life.
