Usually, your iPhone battery can retain 80% of its original capacity for the first two years, if you use it regularly.
If it goes below 80% within a year, you may need to replace your battery. Apple may replace the battery for free with AppleCare or for a fee.
Now, even if your iPhone battery doesn't drop below 80% within a year, it still has a limited lifespan, and you’ll need to replace it eventually.
But when do you need to replace your iPhone battery? We’ll explain everything you need to know in this guide.
Let’s begin.
Signs Your iPhone Battery Needs Replacement
Here are the signs that will show that you need to replace your iPhone battery.
1. Rapid battery drain.
One of the most obvious symptoms that your iPhone battery is failing is a noticeable decrease in battery life.
If you find yourself having to charge your phone several times per day, or if it dies unexpectedly despite the battery indicator showing a reasonable charge, your battery's condition is likely deteriorating.
2. Slow performance.
Apple has admitted to slowing down older iPhones with deteriorated batteries to prevent unexpected shutdowns.
If your iPhone is slow to open apps or finish tasks, it could be a sign that your battery can no longer meet your phone's performance requirements.
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3. Unexpected shutdowns
It's obvious that the battery is not retaining a charge properly if your iPhone shuts off without warning, especially if the battery isn't completely dead.
This can be quite annoying and is a clear sign that the battery needs to be changed.
4. Battle swelling
Physical signs of battery damage can include swelling. A bulging battery is probably the cause if you see that the back shell of your iPhone is separating or if the screen is beginning to swell.
Given that swelling batteries might be hazardous, this is a severe problem that has to be addressed right away.
5. Overheating
When iPhones can heat up during prolonged use, persistent overheating, especially when the device is charging or in operation, is a sign that the battery is failing.
Your phone may sustain more internal damage as a result of overheating.
How to Check Your iPhone Battery Health
Here’s how to check your iPhone’s battery health:
1. Use the Battery Health Feature
With iOS 11.3, Apple added a tool called Battery Health that lets you view details about the condition of your batteries. To check this:
- Navigate to “Settings.”
- Choose "Battery."
- Press the Battery Health button.
Here, you can see the maximum capacity of your battery. This measures its capacity compared to when it was new.
The percentage of a good battery should be near 100%, however it will drop with age.
2. Peak performance capability
You will find details on the peak performance capacity of your battery in the same Battery Health section.
If your battery has drastically degraded, you might receive a message saying that performance management has been activated and your iPhone experienced an unexpected shutdown.
This shows that your battery may need to be replaced because it is no longer operating at its best.
3. Apps from third parties
There are a number of third-party apps that can offer more thorough details regarding the condition of your battery.
You can get information about your battery's performance indicators by using apps like Battery Life (available on the App Store) and CoconutBattery (for Mac users).
Also Read: How Does a Battery Case For an iPhone Work?
When Should You Replace Your iPhone Battery?
1. When your battery health drops below 80%
When the battery health falls below 80%, Apple suggests thinking about replacing the battery.
The battery's ability to hold a charge has now greatly decreased, and you may notice decreased battery life and performance problems.
2. Regular Charging
It's obvious that your iPhone's battery is failing if you find yourself needing to charge it several times every day.
Regularly needing to recharge a battery can be annoying as well as an indication that its life is almost over.
3. Before a big trip or event
It makes sense to replace an old battery before a important vacation or critical event when you'll need your phone to work dependably is approaching.
This ensures that when you really need a working phone, you won't be without one.
4. If you plan to sell or trade-in your iPhone
Having a new battery installed can raise your iPhone's resale value.
Replacing the battery in your phone can increase its appeal to potential customers and increase its trade-in value if you intend to sell or trade it in.
How to Replace Your iPhone Battery
1. Apple authorized service providers
Getting your iPhone battery replaced from Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider is the safest and most reliable option.
This ensures that the change is done correctly and that you are receiving an authentic Apple battery.
You can make appointments at Apple Stores or online at Apple.com.
2. Use DIY replacement kits
Online DIY replacement kits are available for folks who are tech-savvy and okay opening their device.
Although these kits include tools and instructions, exercise caution when using them.
If you replace an iPhone battery on your own, you risk voiding your warranty and damaging your phone if done poorly.
3. Local repair shops
The replacement of iPhone batteries is a service that many nearby repair businesses do.
Even though the shop's prices are usually lower than those of Apple, it's important to make sure that the business has positive reviews and uses high-quality parts.
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Cost of Replacing an iPhone Battery
1. Apple’s Pricing
For most iPhone models that are not under warranty, Apple currently charges $69 for a battery replacement for iPhone SE, iPhone 8, and earlier models and $89 for iPhone X, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, and iPhone 13.
However, based on the model and your region, pricing may differ significantly.
Your phone may be replaced for free or at a discounted price if it is still protected by AppleCare+ or is still under warranty.
2. Third-party costs
A variety of costs, frequently less than Apple's, can be obtained from third-party repair facilities.
It's critical to balance the cost savings with the possibility of inferior craftsmanship or non-genuine parts.
3. DIY kits
Batteries may be replaced at home with kits that cost $20 to $50.
Even while this is the least expensive alternative, it also carries the biggest danger, thus only experienced repairmen should attempt it.
Conclusion
One important part that has an impact on the functionality and general performance of your iPhone is the battery.
Your iPhone can continue to function smoothly and effectively if you can identify the warning signals of a deteriorating battery and know when to replace it.
Making sure your battery is in good condition will improve your user experience and increase the lifespan of your device, regardless of whether you decide to replace it yourself, through Apple, or through a third-party provider.
To prevent possible harm and preserve the integrity of your iPhone, use genuine parts and expert services first.
You can continue to enjoy all the advantages and conveniences your iPhone has to offer and spare yourself the frustration of a dead phone by being proactive about the state of your phone's battery.