Why Does My New Battery Stop Charging at 80 Percent?

It is frustrating when your phone’s battery, which once charged fully, now stops at 80 percent or even earlier. This article will explore the reasons behind this issue and how to potentially resolve it.

The Science Behind Battery Charging Limits

Most modern smartphones are designed with protective features to prevent overcharging and ensure battery longevity. One of these protective measures is setting a specific charging threshold. This threshold can be set to 80 percent, 85 percent, or even 100 percent, depending on the manufacturer's recommendation. For example, if your smartphone is set to stop charging at 80 percent, your battery might heat up, leading to reduced lifespan.

Identifying the Cause

Here are a few steps to identify whether the issue is with the battery protection feature or the charging process itself:

Check the Temperature: If your phone or charger gets particularly warm while charging and stops at 80 percent, it's likely due to internal temperature regulation designed to prevent overheating. Review Battery Settings: Access your phone's battery settings and look for a feature that limits charging to 85 percent or below. This setting is often enabled to protect the battery from degradation caused by full charging. Assess Device Compatibility: If you have a new Samsung Galaxy A15, ensure that it does not have specific charge settings that restrict the charging process.

Disabling Battery Protection

If you want to disable the battery protection feature and charge your battery to 100 percent, follow these steps:

Access Battery Settings: Navigate to your phone's battery settings. Locate Battery Protection Feature: Look for an option called "Protect Battery" or "Battery Optimization." Disable the Feature: Turn off the "Protect Battery" or "Battery Optimization" feature. Refer to the screenshots provided for guidance.

Understanding Battery Chemistry

Charging your battery to 100 percent repeatedly can cause degradation over time. Li-ion batteries, commonly used in modern devices, can degrade when fully charged for extended periods. This degradation reduces the battery's ability to hold a charge. The "sweet spot" for a Li-ion battery is usually between 40-80 percent charge. Charging to 80 percent can help prevent heat generation and prolong battery life.

Practical Tips for Battery Health

To maintain the health of your smartphone battery:

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep your phone away from direct sunlight or extreme cold to prevent overheating. Limit Full Charges: Try to keep your battery charge between 40-80 percent for optimal performance and longevity. Stay Informed: Regularly check your phone's battery settings and software updates for any changes in charging behavior.

By understanding the reasons behind your smartphone's charging behavior and taking appropriate actions, you can enjoy longer-lasting and more reliable battery performance.