Optimized Battery Charging is a smart feature found in modern electronic devices like smartphones and laptops that helps extend the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries by managing how and when the battery charges. Instead of charging the battery to 100% as quickly as possible and keeping it fully charged for long periods, this feature slows down or pauses charging at around 80%, then completes the charge closer to the time when the device is expected to be unplugged based on learned user habits and routines.
How Optimized Battery Charging Works
- The device learns your daily charging patterns, such as when you typically plug in and unplug your phone or laptop.
- It fast-charges the battery up to about 80%.
- Then it slows or pauses charging to avoid keeping the battery at full charge for extended periods.
- It resumes charging to 100% just before you usually disconnect it, for example, before you wake up if you charge overnight.
Benefits
- Reduces battery wear caused by staying at full charge for long times.
- Decreases the "memory effect" and chemical aging in lithium-ion batteries.
- Prolongs the overall useful life and health of the battery.
- Minimizes heat and stress on battery cells during charging.
When Not to Use
- When you need the battery charged to 100% as quickly as possible, such as before traveling.
- When you won’t be able to charge the device again for a long time and need a true full charge.
This feature is enabled by default on many devices, such as iPhones running iOS 13 or later, and can usually be toggled on or off in the battery settings
. In summary, optimized battery charging is a battery health management system that intelligently controls charging speed and timing to reduce wear and extend battery lifespan by avoiding prolonged periods at full charge
