{
  "id": 18002607,
  "title": "How to make your older Android phones last longer",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/03/how-to-make-your-older-android-phones-last-longer",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-03T18:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Engadget",
    "slug": "engadget",
    "url": "https://www.engadget.com/2302743/how-to-make-older-android-phones-last-longer/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In today's world, purchasing a new smartphone often comes with a hefty price tag. This is due to multiple factors, including the ongoing memory shortage and the resulting price increase, which is projected to raise the average smartphone cost to over $580 by 2026 – a 28% increase from last year, according to IDC data. Although mobile carriers may offer promotions like discounts or free new phones for switching carriers, these deals often come with hidden costs such as financing or expensive data plans. If you are considering replacing your older Android phone, you may want to reconsider investing hundreds of dollars in a new device. Fortunately, there are several inexpensive and free solutions that can extend the life of your Android smartphone and allow you to make the most out of it.\n\nOne common issue many Android users face is a rapidly degrading battery, which also negatively impacts the device's performance due to its inability to deliver quick bursts of power required by the processor. This can result in slow loading times, annoying lag, and even total freezing. However, upgrading the battery to a new one is usually a cost-effective solution. For instance, a Samsung Galaxy replacement lithium-ion battery can be found on Amazon for just $10 to $20. If the phone's back is not easily removable, a DIY repair kit can cost around $60, or professional replacement can cost up to $80 at a local repair shop.\n\nAnother useful tip is to take advantage of the battery-saving mode available on most Android phones, which adapts features such as screen brightness to reduce battery consumption. Some Google Pixel phones offer battery optimization features as well as Adaptive Battery, which limits the time spent by less-used apps and learns user app usage patterns to optimize battery life. Samsung phones also provide similar features that put less frequently used apps into sleep mode to conserve battery life.\n\nAdditionally, maintaining your phone's battery charge between 20 and 80 percent throughout the day can significantly extend its lifespan, as LiTime indicates that this practice reduces the battery's exposure to chemical stress. A sturdy case and a screen protector are also essential for prolonging the life of your older Android phone. While these accessories may not enhance the device's appearance, they provide shock absorption and improve grip, preventing potential damage from falls. Lastly, keeping your phone updated with the latest operating system is crucial for security purposes. Most updates include security patches that close potential vulnerabilities, and many apps require the newest Android OS version for compatibility and full functionality. However, updates have their limits, as they are designed for newer phones with more advanced components, which can lead to performance lag on older devices. Despite this, a slight decrease in performance may still be worth it for extending the life of your older Android phone.",
  "summary": "Your Android phone can last much longer if you take steps to protect and optimize it. Try these tactics to extend your phone's life.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}