Cell phones in winter: That's why smartphones behave differently in the cold

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Lithium batteries - everyone has and has heard it before.

These types of energy dispensers can be found in practically all modern devices that require batteries - from smartphones to cameras to e-bikes.

The problem: They are prone to rapid discharges and reduced charging capacity at very low temperatures, explains the TÜV association.

Most of them have probably already noticed what this means with their smartphones in winter: In icy temperatures, the battery level drops as if in free fall; in the worst case, the phone simply switches itself off to protect the battery from damage.

Many amateur photographers have already experienced something similar with their camera and ended their snow photo safari prematurely.

Thick electrolytes in the smartphone battery

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The explanation of the TÜV experts: When it is cold, the electrochemical processes within the battery slow down.

The internal resistance of the cell phone battery increases when the electrolyte liquid becomes thicker.

This increases the power consumption, which leads to a voltage breakdown and ultimately to a rapid discharge.

The optimal operating temperature for most smartphones is between zero and 35 degrees Celsius.

Temperatures outside this range could damage smartphones, warns the TÜV association.

Their batteries also responded to temperatures below freezing point with rapid discharges and reduced charging capacity.

Frozen crystals in the smartphone display

But that's not all.

The cold can also have a negative effect on the screens in smartphones, cameras, etc.

Since the liquid crystals in LCD displays freeze at sub-zero temperatures, there is a sluggish or no reaction to touch, according to the information.

Color display and lighting could also be weakened.

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So that the smartphone does not leave its ideal operating temperature range even in freezing cold, it should be worn outside as close to the body as possible, for example in the inside pocket of your jacket.

A thermal cover, for example made of neoprene, can also be useful as additional protection against the cold.

And instead of pulling the device out of your pocket for phone calls, it's better to speak via a headset.

Both simple in-ear headphones with a microphone on the cable and almost all newer Bluetooth headphones are suitable for this purpose.

Condensation damages smartphones

Another good reason to keep electronic devices warm is the possible consequences of an abrupt change in temperature when you walk into a warm room with the ice-cold device.

Then condensation can form, which in the worst case can lead to short circuits or corrosion inside the device.

If the device does get ice cold, for example when taking a walk, it is advisable to switch off the mobile phone and leave it in your jacket pocket for 30 to 60 minutes to warm up slowly.

In no case should you put it on the heater.