iPhone battery dies quickly? It might need to be replaced

Even with near-constant daily use, a modern iPhone boasts impressive battery life. However, Apple's engineering isn't magic; limitations exist. If you consistently find yourself needing to recharge a few hours after reaching a full or near-full charge (80-100%), it's time for a battery replacement. (This applies to iPads too, though their larger batteries may mask the issue longer.)

Learn how to assess your iPhone's battery health and determine when replacement is necessary.

Checking Battery Health

First, check your battery's condition in Settings > Battery. "Battery Health" should read "Normal." Tap this entry for details, including the current maximum charge capacity. For example, my iPhone 15 Pro (in use since September 2023) shows 89% capacity after 660 charge cycles. (Apple defines a cycle as the equivalent of a full discharge and recharge, even if spread across multiple charging sessions.)

If "Battery Health" isn't "Normal" or the "Maximum Capacity" is below 80%, consider a replacement.

Otherwise, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Restart your iPhone.
• Fully drain the battery (to 0%) and then fully recharge it.
• Back up, erase, and restore your iPhone. (This drastic measure has reportedly helped some users, but not universally.)

Battery Replacement

If you lack AppleCare , and your iPhone is under a year old, the battery may be covered under Apple's warranty for manufacturing defects (check your warranty details online).

Apple often replaces batteries in phones under a year old with low capacity, although their definition of "defect" is flexible.

With AppleCare , battery replacement is free if the Maximum Capacity is 79% or less. Apple uses diagnostic software (available through Apple Support or at an Apple Store) to assess the battery. There might be minor discrepancies between the iPhone's reported percentage and Apple's diagnostics, but Apple generally remains accommodating.

Without warranty or AppleCare , replacement costs roughly $70-$100 from Apple, depending on model and age. Third-party repairs are often cheaper, but Apple's repair includes a 90-day warranty. AppleCare covers multiple battery replacements if the capacity drops below 80%.

This Mac 911 response addresses a question from Macworld reader Camille.

Ask Mac 911

We've compiled frequently asked questions with answers and links to relevant articles. Check our comprehensive FAQ. If your question isn't addressed, submit it to mac911@macworld.com (include screenshots and specify name usage preferences). Not all questions receive replies, and we don't offer direct troubleshooting.

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