IT specialist Sergey Polovnikov noted in a recent interview that using a smartphone in freezing conditions is not ideal. He explained that when a device is moved from frost into a warm room, condensation can form inside and render the phone temporarily unusable. It is a rare occurrence, but the risk exists and should be understood by anyone who spends time outdoors in cold weather.
The expert highlighted a key paradox about batteries: they need a stable temperature to perform consistently. Rapidly draining power can happen when a battery becomes overheated, but the main factor is the load placed on the device. In other words, battery life is not solely governed by the weather; it depends largely on how the phone is being used at any given moment.
Polovnikov added that as long as outdoor air temperatures do not dip below minus 20 degrees Celsius, the phone’s operation will generally stay reliable. He advised avoiding use at about minus 40 degrees, where the risk of malfunctions increases and some tasks can become impractical for the user, such as precise touch input with gloved fingers.
In practical terms, people who rely on their smartphones outdoors should plan for intermittent use at extreme cold and be prepared to protect the device when moving indoors. The expert suggested taking simple steps to keep the phone functioning, such as allowing it to acclimate before heavy use and avoiding rapid temperature swings that could stress internal components.
To extend the device’s life during freezing weather, Polovnikov recommended practical habits: minimize screen-on time, use wired or wireless headphones to reduce power drain, and consider charging from a reliable power source when possible. By managing how long the device stays on and how it is used, users can maintain operation longer in cold environments. A cautious approach to battery management, combined with sensible usage patterns, helps ensure that the smartphone remains usable when needed most, even in harsher climates. A thorough understanding of the device’s temperature limits empowers users to get the best performance during winter months in North America.