Electronics impacted by colder weather

ALBANY, Ga. – With snow and freezing temperatures setting in, most people focus on the “three P’s” of winter: pets, plants, and pipes. But, there’s another thing to consider adding to that list – your phone!

Exposing your smartphone to extreme cold for extended periods can cause the battery to drain more quickly than usual. Cold temperatures can also make the hardware brittle, increasing the risk of cracked screens. It is a costly problem that many don’t think about until it’s too late.

AT&T offers some helpful tips to keep your phone safe this winter.

First, is to avoid direct exposure to the cold. Keep your phone in a pocket, purse, or bag when you’re outside. Another suggestion is to use a durable protective case designed for extreme weather to prevent damage.

If your phone has been exposed to the cold, don’t turn it on immediately after coming inside. Experts recommend powering it down and waiting 30 minutes for it to warm up to room temperature.

This simple step can prevent condensation from forming behind the screen, which could damage your device further. After all, no one wants a foggy or malfunctioning phone.

So, as you bundle up to brave the cold, don’t forget to protect your phone too. A little extra care now can save you time and money later.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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