Latest news with #batterylife
CNET
3 days ago
- General
- CNET
iPhone Battery Tanking Fast? These 3 Settings Are Probably to Blame
If your iPhone feels like it's always on the verge of dying, you're not imagining things. Over time, every phone's battery loses its ability to hold a charge-but that doesn't mean you have to live tethered to a charger. Even if your iPhone is a few years old, there are simple setting tweaks you can make right now that can noticeably extend your battery life. You might be surprised how much longer your phone lasts with just a few smart changes. Whether you're using your phone to get directions, stream music, or send that one last text, the last thing you want is for it to shut down at the worst possible moment. Instead of scrambling for a charger or switching on Low Power Mode every few hours, take a minute to check your iPhone settings. Turning off a few power-draining features could be the fix your battery desperately needs-and it only takes seconds to do. You can also keep an eye on your Battery Health menu -- it'll tell you your battery health percentage (80% or higher is considered good), as well as show you how many times you've cycled your battery and whether or not your battery is "normal." We'll explain three iOS features that put a strain on your iPhone's battery to varying degrees, and show how you can turn them off to help preserve battery life. Here's what you need to know. Turn off widgets on your iPhone lock screen All the widgets on your lock screen force your apps to automatically run in the background, constantly fetching data to update the information the widgets display, like sports scores or the weather. Because these apps are constantly running in the background due to your widgets, that means they continuously drain power. If you want to help preserve some battery on iOS 18, the best thing to do is simply avoid widgets on your lock screen (and home screen). The easiest way to do this is to switch to another lock screen profile: Press your finger down on your existing lock screen and then swipe around to choose one that doesn't have any widgets. If you want to just remove the widgets from your existing lock screen, press down on your lock screen, hit Customize, choose the Lock Screen option, tap on the widget box and then hit the "—" button on each widget to remove them. If you're already low on battery, it's best to just switch to a wallpaper that doesn't have lock screen widgets. Screenshots by Nelson Aguilar/CNET Reduce the motion of your iPhone UI Your iPhone user interface has some fun, sleek animations. There's the fluid motion of opening and closing apps, and the burst of color that appears when you activate Siri with Apple Intelligence, just to name a couple. These visual tricks help bring the slab of metal and glass in your hand to life. Unfortunately, they can also reduce your phone's battery life. If you want subtler animations across iOS, you can enable the Reduce Motion setting. To do this, go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and toggle on Reduce Motion. Visual tricks like the parallax effect are fun, but they can affect your battery life. Screenshots by Jason Chun/CNET Switch off your iPhone's keyboard vibration Surprisingly, the keyboard on the iPhone has never had the ability to vibrate as you type, an addition called "haptic feedback" that was added to iPhones with iOS 16. Instead of just hearing click-clack sounds, haptic feedback gives each key a vibration, providing a more immersive experience as you type. According to Apple, the very same feature may also affect battery life. Watch this: So Many iPhone Battery Complaints, but Why? 09:44 According to this Apple support page about the keyboard, haptic feedback "might affect the battery life of your iPhone." No specifics are given as to how much battery life the keyboard feature drains, but if you want to conserve battery, it's best to keep this feature disabled. Fortunately, it is not enabled by default. If you've enabled it yourself, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Keyboard Feedback and toggle off Haptic to turn off haptic feedback for your keyboard. Every single time you type, you'll feel a slight vibration for each key you hit. Screenshots by Nelson Aguilar/CNET For more tips on iOS, learn how to download iOS 18 and how to automatically delete multifactor authentication messages from texts and emails.
The Verge
28-05-2025
- Business
- The Verge
Anker's new wireless earbuds come with a case that can also charge your phone
Anker's Soundcore audio brand has released a new pair of wireless earbuds that may be worth the upgrade for the charging case alone. In addition to a status screen, the case incorporates a hefty 3,000mAh battery that can keep the buds powered for over a week, or it can be used to partially top up a smartphone. For comparison, the AirPods Pro 2 's charging case includes a much smaller 523mAh battery. The new Soundcore P41i wireless earbuds are now available for purchase through the brand's online store in the UK for £89.99, or around $121. They're currently not listed on the US version of Soundcore's website, but previous versions of the earbuds in this line have seen a wider global release. Anker says the earbuds themselves offer up to 12 hours of battery life with ANC turned off, which can be boosted to up to 192 hours when paired with the charging case. That's enough power to use the buds around the clock for eight continuous days, although with more realistic usage it means the case can probably go for about a month between charges. That much battery life potentially makes the Soundcore P41i a great travel option, but also a solution for those dealing with smartphone battery anxiety. The charging case includes a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a wrist strap, as well as a Lightning adapter for charging older iPhones and iPads. Anker estimates the case's 3,000mAh has enough capacity to charge a dead iPhone 16 Pro halfway, or a Samsung Galaxy S24 to 45 percent. The Soundcore P41i earbuds feature 11mm composite drivers and the brand's optional BassUp technology for those wanting more presence from lower frequencies. They also offer adaptive ANC using six microphones with the option to adjust the intensity of the noise cancelling through Soundcore's app if you want to hear more of what's going on around you. AI noise reduction will help reduce background sounds while you're on a call, and the buds have an IPX5 water resistance rating so while getting them wet is okay, you'll want to avoid a complete dunking.
Phone Arena
18-05-2025
- Phone Arena
This phone has the best battery life of 2025 and it's not even close
We have tested the battery life of nearly one hundred phones in the past two years and we're not easily impressed by big batteries, but this phone really stands out. The Vivo X200 Ultra has the longest battery life of any phone in the past two years, only beating the Vivo X200 Pro which was already in the top charts. With a 6,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery on board and the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip under the hood, this Vivo phone truly shines in battery tests. The Vivo X200 Ultra scores a solid number on our web browsing test, but where it really shines is its nearly endless result for YouTube video streaming. On our web browsing test (it's our lightest test where we cycle web pages with a script), the X200 Ultra got exactly 22 hours, beating most of the competition except for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which lasted some 40 minutes longer on this test. But then for YouTube video streaming , the Vivo X200 Ultra gets 13 hours and 41 minutes, crushing rivals. On this test, the iPhone scored "merely" 10 hours and a half, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra only lasted for less than 9 hours. The Vivo got nearly 50% longer battery life than the Galaxy! And finally, for 3D gaming, the X200 Ultra once again impresses with a score of over 14 hours, one of the all-time best results on this test. This time, it was on par with the Galaxy, while the iPhone was two hours behind. Our total battery life estimate for the Vivo X200 Ultra is 9 hours and 37 minutes of screen time , an insane number. Compare this to 8 hours and 30 minutes on the iPhone 16 Pro Max (an hour less) and 8 hours on the S25 Ultra. We should also note that the Vivo X200 Pro got similarly great results (just a bit lower) when we tested it a few months back. Both the Vivo X200 Pro and X200 Ultra have outstanding camera systems that also set a new bar for camera photography. The two phones also support ultra fast 90W charging with Vivo's proprietary "Flash Charge" protocol, so a full charge of the giant 6,000 mAh battery takes under 50 minutes. Keep in mind, though, that you need to use the company's own Flash Charger and proper cable to get those speeds. This is NOT just a regular USB-C Power Delivery system, so if you try topping up with a charger from the likes of Anker or Ugreen you will not get those ultra-fast speeds. Our review of the Vivo X200 Ultra is coming soon with more details on the camera, so stay tuned.
Geeky Gadgets
08-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iPhone 16 Pro Max: The Good, the Bad, and the Future
The iPhone 16 Pro Max represents a blend of incremental advancements and dependable performance, appealing to both creators and long-term users. While it excels in areas such as battery life, processing power, and video recording, it does not deliver the kind of new innovation some users might expect. The video below from The Tech Chap explores its core features, strengths, and limitations, offering a detailed analysis of its value in 2023. Watch this video on YouTube. Battery Life: A Reliable Step Forward The iPhone 16 Pro Max showcases notable improvements in battery health and longevity, making it a standout feature for users who prioritize reliability. After seven months of use, many users report maintaining 100% battery capacity, which underscores Apple's commitment to durability. Wireless charging remains a minor challenge , but the device retains better battery health compared to earlier models. , but the device retains better battery health compared to earlier models. While not the industry leader, it offers dependable performance for both daily tasks and extended use. For users who value long-term reliability, this improvement is a welcome enhancement, making sure the device remains functional over time without frequent battery replacements. Performance: A18 Pro Chip Sets a High Standard At the heart of the iPhone 16 Pro Max lies the A18 Pro chip, which delivers exceptional speed and efficiency. Whether you're gaming, editing high-resolution photos, or working with 4K video, the device handles demanding tasks with ease, making it a powerhouse for productivity and creativity. The improved cooling system minimizes overheating during intensive use, though minor heat issues can still occur under heavy workloads. can still occur under heavy workloads. Apple's promise of six years of iOS updates ensures long-term usability, making it a future-proof investment for users. For semi-technical users and professionals, the A18 Pro chip solidifies the iPhone 16 Pro Max as a top-tier performer, capable of meeting the demands of modern applications and workflows. Camera Capabilities: Strengths and Shortcomings The iPhone 16 Pro Max's camera system offers a mix of impressive features and areas for improvement. On the positive side, it excels in delivering professional-grade results for video recording and creative photography. 4K 120fps ProRes video recording and cinematic mode provide stunning visual quality for creators. for creators. Depth data capture enhances post-shot editing, offering greater creative flexibility for users. However, the telephoto lens struggles in low-light conditions due to its small sensor size, and lens glare remains a recurring issue. While the camera system performs well overall, these limitations highlight areas where Apple could refine its approach to meet the expectations of photography enthusiasts. Software and AI: Seamless Integration with Room for Growth The iOS ecosystem continues to be a cornerstone of the iPhone 16 Pro Max's appeal, offering a seamless user experience through features like AirDrop, FaceTime, and Apple Arcade. Regular updates ensure the device remains secure and functional over time. Integration with other Apple devices strengthens its ecosystem advantage , making it an attractive choice for users already invested in Apple's products. , making it an attractive choice for users already invested in Apple's products. Apple Intelligence tools, while useful for tasks like summarizing and transcribing, lag behind competitors like Google in terms of innovation and practical application. For users seeking innovative AI features, the iPhone 16 Pro Max may feel underwhelming, as its AI capabilities remain functional but not new. Design and Build: Premium Quality, Familiar Aesthetic The iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch display with reduced bezels, offering an immersive viewing experience that caters to media consumption and productivity. Its premium materials and robust build maintain Apple's reputation for high-quality design. The larger screen size is ideal for users who prioritize entertainment and multitasking . . However, the design lacks significant innovation, reflecting a sense of stagnation in Apple's approach to aesthetics. While the build quality is undeniably impressive, the absence of fresh design elements may leave some users wishing for a more distinctive visual identity. Ecosystem and Exclusive Features: Strengths and Limitations Apple's ecosystem remains a key advantage for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, offering features that enhance usability and convenience. Dynamic Island, for example, adds a layer of interactivity and functionality that is unique to iOS devices. Dynamic Island provides a distinctive feature , though its practical utility varies depending on individual user preferences. , though its practical utility varies depending on individual user preferences. Some features, such as the camera control button, feel underutilized, leaving room for improvement in future iterations. For users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem, these exclusive features add value. However, they may not fully justify the premium price tag for those who are less reliant on Apple's integrated services. Criticisms and Areas for Improvement Despite its many strengths, the iPhone 16 Pro Max faces criticism for its lack of new innovation. Several areas stand out as needing improvement to better meet user expectations. The telephoto lens and selfie camera require meaningful upgrades to compete with rivals in the smartphone market. to compete with rivals in the smartphone market. Limited advancements in AI features leave the device feeling outpaced by competitors in this area. by competitors in this area. Underwhelming implementation of certain hardware elements, such as the camera control button, detracts from the overall experience. These shortcomings highlight the need for Apple to address evolving user demands more effectively in future models. Looking Ahead: Potential Upgrades in the iPhone 17 Series As anticipation builds for the iPhone 17 series, rumors suggest potential upgrades that could address the current model's shortcomings. Expected improvements include: A triple 48MP camera setup and an enhanced selfie camera for improved photography. for improved photography. The introduction of the A19 chip, promising even greater performance and efficiency . . New models, such as a thinner 'Air' version and a high-end 'Ultra' variant, catering to diverse user preferences. However, concerns about pricing and potential compromises in battery life for thinner designs remain, leaving users to weigh the trade-offs carefully. The iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in areas like battery life, video capabilities, and ecosystem integration, making it a dependable choice for creators and long-term users. However, its lack of new innovation and areas for improvement in AI and camera features leave it vulnerable to competition from Android rivals. As Apple prepares for the iPhone 17 series, it has an opportunity to address these shortcomings and redefine its position in the market. For now, the iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a solid, reliable option for those committed to the Apple ecosystem. Explore further guides and articles from our vast library that you may find relevant to your interests in iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life. Source & Image Credit: The Tech Chap Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
