Much of the US will experience extreme cold during this weekend’s winter storm. With projected wind chills as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit, your safest bet is to stay indoors. But if you do need to be outside, you might be wondering: Is it safe to use your phone or smartwatch?
While most digital devices will work fine in cold weather, you should limit exposure to extreme temperatures. Smartphones and smartwatches are generally powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can discharge electricity inefficiently when it gets too cold. If the temperature drops significantly, your device may shut down temporarily to prevent damage.
Here’s what you need to know.
Official advice from phone and smartwatch manufacturers about cold weather use
iPhones and Apple Watches
You should avoid exposing your iPhone or Apple Watch to freezing temperatures (anything colder than 32 degrees Fahrenheit), according to Apple.
Below that threshold, the lithium-ion battery of your iPhone or Apple Watch may drain faster (though battery life will recover once its temperature returns to normal). If the temperature drops below 4 degrees Fahrenheit, you should power off your device.
Apple also says that your iPhone or Apple Watch may temporarily stop charging when exposed to extreme heat or cold. In devices with iOS 16 and watchOS 9 or higher, you can view paused charging information in Settings > Battery.
Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and other Android phones and smartwatches
Just like iPhones, your Android phones and smartwatches should be kept away from extreme cold temperatures. They’re powered by the same lithium-ion batteries as Apple devices and perform best in a moderate temperature range.
Samsung Galaxy phones and watches should be kept between 32 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Samsung advises against using or charging your device in extreme temperatures, which can damage the battery. Below a certain temperature, your phone or watch’s safeguards may be activated, causing the device to pause charging or shut down.
Google Pixel phones should be charged at room temperature (Google recommends 78 degrees Fahrenheit) and used above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If it gets colder than that, your Pixel may shut down suddenly. Google advises letting your phone warm up gradually after exposure to extreme cold.
How to best use and protect your devices in very cold weather
If possible, don’t expose your phone and smartwatch to freezing weather at all. But when you have to be outdoors, take only essential devices with you. (If you’re just running to the grocery store, you probably don’t need both your phone and smartwatch.)
Keep your phone in as warm a location as possible, such as close to your body in an inner pocket of your jacket. A specialized case can also keep it insulated. Make sure you don’t leave your device inside a parked car, where prolonged exposure to the cold can damage its battery.
If your smartphone has a fingerprint lock enabled, you might have trouble accessing it in subzero weather. Certain touchscreen gloves will allow you to at least type in your password while protecting your fingers from the cold.
Finally, consider powering off your phone or smartwatch when you’re planning to be outside for an extended period and you don’t expect to use your device until you’re indoors.
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