Smartphones don’t break down instantly, but they’re not built to last forever. However, with the right habits, you can extend your phone’s lifespan well beyond the usual upgrade cycle.

1 Replace Your Screen Protector and Case

The screen protector is your first line of defense against physical damage, which shields your phone from scratches, cracks, and everyday wear. However, over time, it can wear out and no longer offer the same level of protection. It also reduces touch sensitivity. Similarly, a dusty phone case can spoil the look of your high-end phone.

That’s why you must replace your screen protector when you notice signs of wear to ensure your phone stays safe from drops, dirt, and other daily damage. When replacing it, opt for a tempered glass protector for better protection. Also, replace the phone case as needed to maintain your phone’s sleek appearance.

2 Take Care of Your Device’s Battery

Degrading battery life is one of the main reasons users replace their phones, especially when the battery isn’t replaceable. However, with proper care, you can extend the battery’s lifespan and delay the need for an upgrade or battery replacement for a few more years. To do so, you need to follow some simple battery care practices.

Avoid letting the battery drain completely too often, and try not to charge it all the way to 100%. Instead, keep the charge between 20% and 80%. When replacing the charger, always get an original or a certified one. Charge your phone in a place with good airflow, and avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures.

Also, adjust your phone’s settings to minimize battery drain per charge. This will reduce the need for frequent charging and extend the battery’s life.

3 Clean Your Phone Regularly

Cleaning your phone improves its appearance, helps it work properly, and extends its lifespan. If left unchecked, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in its ports, speakers, and buttons, potentially hindering its performance. That’s why you must make a habit of cleaning your phone at least once a week.

Use a soft brush to gently remove dust and debris from the ports and speaker grills, preventing debris from getting lodged inside. Compressed air can help blow out dust, but hold the can at a slight angle to avoid pushing dust further into the device. Wipe down the rest of your phone’s body and screen with a microfiber cloth to keep it clean and smudge-free.

4 Protect Your Phone From Extreme Temperatures and Moisture

Exposing your phone to extreme temperatures and moisture can damage its performance and reduce its lifespan. High temperatures can strain the battery, while low temperatures can cause the screen or internal components to malfunction. Similarly, excess moisture can lead to internal corrosion and short circuits.

To protect your phone, don’t leave it in direct sunlight or near heat sources. In cold environments, wrap it in a warm cloth and keep it inside your jacket to shield it from the cold. Likewise, store it in a waterproof and moisture-resistant pouch when near water or in humid conditions to prevent damage.

5 Don’t Root or Jailbreak Your Phone

Rooting or jailbreaking your phone may unlock new features and remove manufacturer-imposed restrictions, but it can also shorten your device’s lifespan in several ways. First, these actions often void your warranty, meaning you’ll have to rely on third-party repairs, which could lead to unforeseen complications.

Rooting or jailbreaking bypasses the security measures set by the manufacturer, leaving your device more vulnerable to malware. You may also miss important software updates that keep your hardware running optimally. To ensure your device lasts as long as possible, you must avoid rooting or jailbreaking your phone altogether.

6 Handle Your Phone With Care

How you handle your phone directly impacts how long it remains in good condition. Accidental drops are one of the leading causes of both internal and external damage to phones. So, don’t place your phone in your shirt or jacket’s top or side pocket, as it’s easy to slip out and fall. Also, don’t use tight pockets where even a small bump can crack the screen.

If you’re not already using a screen protector, now’s the time to get one—preferably a durable one to protect against accidental damage. In your rush, be mindful not to yank the charging cable from the port or bend it, and avoid pressing the screen too hard. Also, never sleep with your phone next to you on the bed.

When cleaning your phone, handle it gently and avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage its screen and surface.

7 Repair Damaged Parts Without Delay

You should never delay repairs, as doing so can worsen the issue. A small crack in your screen can enlarge or spread with a minor drop, a temporary camera issue may become permanent, or a faulty charging port might damage the charger or battery. Using your phone with a swollen or damaged battery can even pose a fire risk.

The condition of your phone affects its resale value, and minor issues left unattended can escalate and diminish its overall worth. To avoid this, quickly repair any damaged or faulty components. If a replacement is necessary, opt for manufacturer-approved parts rather than third-party alternatives, especially chargers and cables, as they could damage your phone.

8 Keep Your Software Updated

Manufacturers frequently release updates that include security patches to protect phones from newly discovered threats. These updates also fix bugs or glitches that may affect phones’ performance. Failing to install these updates on time can leave phones vulnerable to cyberattacks and allow bugs to continue affecting devices.

In addition, updates often bring features that improve your phone’s performance, stabilize it, and improve battery efficiency. The latest software ensures your device remains compatible with newly launched apps. To keep your phone running smoothly and securely, you should install updates as soon as they’re available.

Keeping your phone running for years requires smart habits and proper maintenance. Follow the above practices to keep your phone performing at its best throughout its lifespan. Take good care of your phone, and it will remain a dependable companion for years, saving you from the hassle and cost of frequent upgrades.