The iPhone 15 has a new optimized charging setting, here’s how it works

Apple Introduces New iPhone Charging Option: What You Need to Know

Apple has recently introduced a new charging option for iPhone users, allowing them to limit their device’s battery charge level to 80 percent. This option aims to prolong the overall lifespan of the battery and improve the device’s battery health. In this article, we will delve into Apple’s explanation of what users can expect when enabling this setting and provide some insights from our testing experience.

According to Apple, when the 80% Limit is enabled, the iPhone will charge up to approximately 80 percent and then cease charging. If the battery level drops to 75 percent, charging will resume until it reaches about 80 percent again. This approach ensures that the battery remains within a safe charging range, preventing overcharging and reducing stress on the battery cells.

However, during our testing of this new setting on review devices, we noticed that the phones occasionally charged past the 80 percent limit. Apple has acknowledged that this might occur and explained that, in order to maintain accurate battery state-of-charge estimates, the iPhone will occasionally charge to 100 percent. So, while the 80% Limit is meant to cap charging at 80 percent, the device may still occasionally charge to full capacity.

It is worth mentioning that this new option joins an existing feature called Optimized Battery Charging, which has been available on Apple devices for a few years. Optimized Battery Charging also aims to extend battery lifespan by holding the charge at 80 percent and only completing the charge to full when it anticipates the user will need to use the phone based on their usage patterns.

In addition to introducing this new charging option, Apple has recently released iOS 17.0.2 for the iPhone 15 series. We are currently installing the update to assess whether charging behavior accurately hovers around 80 percent with the new setting enabled.

The introduction of this new charging option reflects Apple’s ongoing efforts to improve battery longevity and enhance overall user experience. By allowing users to limit charging beyond 80 percent, Apple provides them with more control over their device’s battery health and potentially reduces the need for frequent battery replacements.

To enable the 80% Limit setting on your iPhone, navigate to Settings > Battery > Battery Health > Optimized Battery Charging. From there, you can toggle the switch to enable the feature.

It is important to note that while this setting may improve battery longevity, it might impact the overall battery life available for usage. Users who heavily rely on their iPhones throughout the day may find that the limited charging range requires more frequent recharges. However, for those who have access to charging points throughout the day, this trade-off could be well worth it for the overall health of their device’s battery.

In conclusion, Apple’s new iPhone charging option provides users with the ability to limit their battery charge to 80 percent, thereby extending battery lifespan. Although occasional charging past 80 percent may occur to maintain accurate battery estimates, this feature aims to reduce stress on the battery and improve long-term performance. It complements the existing Optimized Battery Charging feature, offering users additional control over their battery usage. So, if you are concerned about your iPhone’s battery health, enabling the 80% Limit option could be a beneficial choice to consider.