Don’t Let the Winter Storms Kill Your Phone. How to Protect It From Cold Weather

Much of the United States will experience extreme cold during this weekend’s winter storm. With wind chills projected as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit, your safest bet is to stay indoors. But if you need to be outside, you may be wondering: Is it safe to use your phone or smartwatch?

Although most digital devices work well in cold weather, you should limit their exposure to extreme temperatures. Smartphones and smartwatches are typically powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can discharge electricity inefficiently when it’s too cold. If the temperature drops significantly, your device may shut down temporarily to prevent damage.

Here’s what you need to know.

Official advice from phone and smartwatch manufacturers on use in cold weather

iPhone and Apple Watches

You should avoid exposing your iPhone or Apple Watch to freezing temperatures (anything below 32 degrees Fahrenheit), according to Apple.

Below this threshold, the lithium-ion battery in your iPhone or Apple Watch may drain more quickly (although battery life will recover once its temperature returns to normal). If the temperature drops below 4 degrees Fahrenheit, you should turn off your device.

Apple also says that your iPhone or Apple Watch may temporarily stop charging when exposed to extreme heat or cold. On devices with iOS 16 and watchOS 9 or later, you can view paused charging information in Settings > Battery.

Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and other Android phones and smartwatches

Just like iPhones, your Android phones and smartwatches should be kept away from extremely cold temperatures. They are powered by the same lithium-ion batteries as Apple devices and work best in a moderate temperature range.

Samsung Galaxy phones and watches should be stored between 32 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Samsung does not recommend using or charging your device in extreme temperatures, as this may damage the battery. Below a certain temperature, the protections on your phone or watch may be activated, causing the device to pause or stop charging.

Google Pixel phones should be charged at room temperature (Google recommends 78 degrees Fahrenheit) and used above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s colder than that, your Pixel may suddenly turn off. Google advises letting your phone warm up gradually after exposure to extreme cold.

How to best use and protect your devices in very cold weather

If possible, do not expose your phone and smartwatch to freezing at all. But when you have to be outside, only take essential devices with you. (If you’re just running to the grocery store, you probably don’t need your phone and smartwatch.)

Keep your phone as warm as possible, such as close to your body in an inside pocket of your jacket. A specialized suitcase can also keep it insulated. Make sure you don’t leave your device in a parked car, where prolonged exposure to cold can damage its battery.

If your smartphone has a fingerprint lock enabled, you might have difficulty accessing it in freezing weather. Some touchscreen gloves will at least allow you to enter your password while protecting your fingers from the cold.

Finally, consider turning off your phone or smartwatch when you plan to be outside for an extended period of time and don’t plan to use your device until you’re inside.