Cold weather ideas to help protect your phone's battery life

Ever notice that your smartphone doesn’t hold a charge in the winter – or worse, suddenly dies when it had 30% battery life?

Then you’ve experienced the dreaded tech freeze.

Cold temperatures, along with winter precipitation, can have a negative effect on smart devices and their batteries. Even moderately cold weather can make your phone seem sluggish.

With roughly 80% of consumers using their wireless phones to get help in emergencies per 911.gov, Verizon says it’s important to protect your phone from tech freeze. Verizon has some easy tips to winterize your mobile devices:

• Keep your phone close to your body or in your pocket if you’re heading outdoors. Your body heat will keep the phone from getting too cold. To keep your phone warm, answer any calls using a paired Bluetooth headset.

• Don’t leave devices overnight (or for long periods) in a car in cold weather. Exposure to very cold temperatures can permanently damage components.

• Carry an extra battery pack, like a mophie powerstation, or keep a mobile charger in your car.

• Want to snap a photo or record video while out on the slopes? Use a water-resistant camera like a GoPro or Samsung Gear 360, which connects to your phone wirelessly.

• And, if your device ever falls victim to tech freeze, electronics warranty company Asurion recommends warming it up to room temperature before using it to avoid condensation forming inside and damaging your phone.

• Invest in a waterproof protective case. This will help prevent any liquid damage to your phone, should you accidentally drop it in the snow or a puddle.

• Chilly temperatures can make your smartphone’s screen more fragile—leading to potential screen cracks. Verizon’s device insurance plan, Total Mobile Protection, can ease the pain with cracked screen repair as soon as the same day and next-day shipping for replacements.