As residents of Illinois, we're accustomed to braving the frigid temperatures, but are you aware that extreme cold can wreak havoc on your smartphone?

Impact of Severe Cold on Smartphones

My strategy for getting through the harsh winter temperatures in Illinois is quite straightforward: I only venture outside when it's absolutely essential. Although curling up in a cozy blanket fort is the best way to stay warm during the frigid weather, there are times when we must brave the cold, so it's important to be well-equipped.

We're all aware of the importance of layering our clothing and keeping an emergency kit in our cars filled with blankets and snacks for those frigid days when temperatures fall below zero. However, have you considered how to safeguard your phone—the one item you always have with you?

Most of us know extreme heat is dangerous for our smartphones, but extreme cold can be just as damaging according to a Batteries Plus article.

In essence, frigid temperatures can greatly affect your phone's functionality, causing sudden shutdowns, shorter battery life, and unresponsive touchscreens. However, exposing it to the cold isn't the most detrimental action you can take during winter; that honor goes to charging it.

I would like to take a moment to clarify.

According to Batteries Plus;

Charging lithium-ion batteries in temperatures below freezing can lead to a phenomenon called lithium plating, where lithium accumulates on the anode. This buildup can result in irreversible damage to the battery's capacity. Therefore, it's important to avoid charging your phone in environments that are colder than 32℉.

Safeguarding Your Phone's Performance in Severe Cold Conditions

If you're planning to spend a significant amount of time in freezing conditions and need to take your phone along, here are some essential tips and reminders:

• Keep Your Phone Warm - Store your phone in a pocket that's close to your body so your body heat can help maintain its temperature. NEVER leave it in a cold, parked car.
• Monitor Battery Health - The cold will cause your battery to drain faster, so make sure it's fully charged before you bring it outside.
• Adjust Phone Settings - To conserve battery life, close all unnecessary apps, lower your screen brightness and turn on your battery saver mode if possible.
• Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes - (This is the most important thing!) If your phone battery dies and your phone shuts down in the cold, GRADUALLY warm it up before plugging it into a charger. Rapid shifts from cold to warm can cause condensation inside the phone which is never a good thing.

Remember, while it's tempting to charge your phone immediately after coming in from the cold, DON'T do it. Patience is key.

12 Essential Dos and Don'ts for Surviving Sub-Zero Temperatures in Illinois