Debunk common smartphone myths with this tech company's tips

In the digital age, our smartphones have become as essential as our wallets and keys. They keep us connected to the world, store our precious memories, and manage our daily tasks.

So, when something goes wrong with our beloved devices, we often scramble for quick fixes, relying on hearsay and age-old myths.

What if these quick fixes might do more harm than good?

Aussie tech giant Telstra debunked common phone myths that have misled Australians for years.


One of the most popular myths is that if a phone gets wet, it should be buried in a rice bowl.

According to myths, rice will absorb moisture and bring the phone back to life.

However, Telstra's research suggested that this advice is ineffective and may cause further damage to phones.


compressed-smartphones.jpeg
While modern smartphones are built with waterproof technology, it's crucial to keep them dry and free from moisture. Image Credits: Pexels/Ahmed, Imad Clicks


Rice grains can quickly get stuck in the ports and speakers, leading to more severe issues.

Instead of reaching for the pantry, find silica gel packets—often found in shoe boxes or with new electronics.

These unassuming sachets are natural desiccants designed to absorb moisture efficiently.

Seal it in an airtight container with as many silica gel packets as possible, and leave for at least 24 hours to absorb any water.


Another common misconception is that the number of bars on the phone is the ultimate indicator of service quality.

Telstra's insights revealed that the type of network phones are connected to—be it 3G, 4G, or 5G—plays a more significant role in the speed and reliability of service.

For instance, a couple of bars on a 4G network could provide a better experience than a complete set of bars on 3G.

The combination of signal strength and network capability determines the phone's performance.

Now, let's talk about phone performance and battery life.

According to gossip, closing apps can help save battery and improve phone speed.

However, this is another myth that needs to be revised, as modern smartphones can self-regulate their background activity.

They manage the phone's processes, effectively closing background apps without a complete restart.

Constantly closing and reopening apps can lead to more battery drain.


Lastly, one piece of advice that does stand the test of truth is that high temperatures can damage phones in the long run.

Smartphones use lithium-ion batteries that are sensitive to environmental factors like heat and pressure.

For example, iPhones will display a heat warning at around 45°C, but even temperatures above 35°C can negatively impact battery life.

In addition to Telstra's tips, Apple and Samsung shared advice on how to prolong their phones' battery life.

It's time to let go of these myths and treat our smartphones with more scientific care.

By understanding the truth behind these common misconceptions, we can extend the life of our devices and avoid unnecessary frustration.

Key Takeaways

  • Rice is not recommended for drying a wet phone, as grains can get stuck in ports and speakers; silica gel packets are the preferred method.
  • Network type (3G, 4G, or 5G) is more indicative of service quality than the number of signal bars shown on a phone.
  • Closing apps to save battery charge on modern phones is unnecessary as they regulate background activity themselves.
  • High temperatures above 35°C can damage smartphones, specifically impacting the lithium-ion batteries' long-term capacity.
Have you fallen for any of these myths in the past? Share your stories in the comments below!
 
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Yes used the rice trick and it worked a treat, but now think I will just buy one of those damp rid co trainers and see if that works as well. I don’t use those silica packets as I have read that they are deadly if children put them in their mouth
 
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I have come up with a genius idea. Don't get the phone wet in the first place.
As far as reception goes, visiting shopping centres and going through tunnels are dead spots. So, I wait until I leave the centre or get out of the tunnel ... I'm on a roll here.
Battery life for me is not a do or die as I have not suffered the deadly drop. I just charge it before it gets right down to the % of no return.
There you go .... I figured it all out without the help of the Tech giants.
 
I have come up with a genius idea. Don't get the phone wet in the first place.
As far as reception goes, visiting shopping centres and going through tunnels are dead spots. So, I wait until I leave the centre or get out of the tunnel ... I'm on a roll here.
Battery life for me is not a do or die as I have not suffered the deadly drop. I just charge it before it gets right down to the % of no return.
There you go .... I figured it all out without the help of the Tech giants.
Clever lady! Common sense prevails! 👍🏻
 
I have "PunkCase" (independant charging case) purchased on on ebay a couple yrs or so ago for $20 & it fits compactly around my phone So if phone battery goes flat away from power or the charger at home or in car, etc I turn on the precharged PunkCase & it recharges my phone or gives it enough life to use for longer!
It also protects the phone if accidentally dropped (or makes it less likely to drop in the first place- without the case my phone is thin & slippery to hold)
And the phone can be used whilst inside the case as case doesnt cover front of phone/phone screen!
 
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Reactions: MariaG and DLHM
I have "PunkCase" (independant charging case) purchased on on ebay a couple yrs or so ago for $20 & it fits compactly around my phone So if phone battery goes flat away from power or the charger at home or in car, etc I turn on the precharged PunkCase & it recharges my phone or gives it enough life to use for longer!
It also protects the phone if accidentally dropped (or makes it less likely to drop in the first place- without the case my phone is thin & slippery to hold)
And the phone can be used whilst inside the case as case doesnt cover front of phone/phone screen!
I’ve never heard of a “PunkCase”! Sounds ideal!
 
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Reactions: Cheezil

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