Samsung Galaxy S3: 20 Ways to Extend Battery Life Without Sacrificing Too Much User Experience
Samsung Galaxy S3 is probably one of the most loved Android smartphones even today, and a lot of users still choose to keep the device. However, due to its old hardware components, battery life could be an issue. Here are 20 ways to manage its battery without sacrificing too much of user experience.
1. Network Mode
In case you have Galaxy S3 LTE, determine your plan and the network stability of 4G. If 3G works for you and can accommodate your mobile data needs, set it as default and only use 4G in an area that provides good quality connection.
2. Setting the Display
Lowering the display brightness at dim point can be very irritating and the best option is to enable Automatic Brightness level. In addition, you may browse the Play Store and find certain apps that control brightness depending on the phone's mode such as during night time.
3. Live Wallpaper
Some users prefer live wallpaper due to animation but it consumes a lot of power. Determining the right wallpaper is a trial and error, so check the reviews if the application was written well.
4. Syncing Data
You can still enjoy syncing of data without letting apps consume too much power. Disable the Automatic Syncing and simply update it yourself. Another trick is selecting certain apps for auto-syncing only - not all of them.
5. Controlling the CPU
There is a built-in CPU controller inside the Settings menu for those who do not use high demanding apps. Limiting the CPU power can extend battery life dramatically and may also reduce heat.
6. SMS and Calls Only
If you use the Galaxy S3 for SMS and calls only, set the network to 2G instead so you can save more power. Several apps are now capable of sending SMS and performing calls using the Internet.
7. Wi-Fi Management
Explore your Wi-Fi settings and make sure that your device does not connect on Wi-Fi with poor signal quality. Additionally, use Wi-Fi if available, rather than mobile data for Internet surfing.
8. Bluetooth and NFC
Never forget to turn off Bluetooth and NFC after file transfer as the device will continue to look for a connection. Thus, draining huge amounts of power without your knowledge.
9. GPS and Location Services
Location Service can consume lots of power and it is better to turn it off altogether if you don't use it at all. Moreover, you can set the accuracy to low if the device is running Android KitKat.
10. Unused Applications
Every now and then, check the apps list and remove those you don't use anymore to delete clutter and stop them from consuming memory. More apps inside the memory mean more battery eaters.
11. Reboot the Device
Restart the smartphone every after full recharge to free memory on the RAM and get a more accurate battery reading. Restart can also fix minor bugs you are not aware of.
12. Using the Task Manager
After finishing all your task on Galaxy S3, use the Task Manager to close all apps. Leaving apps in the background consume power overtime.
13. Security Apps
Increase security strength by downloading apps at the Play Store. Using an antivirus and anti-malware apps can prevent infection from spreading in the system. Viruses can also affect battery life.
14. Clearing Cache
Every time you browse, apps keep cache files to easily load them. However, cache files in a month or so can create clutter. It is recommended to delete them from time to time. You may do this manually per each app inside the Applications Manager or get a manager from the Play Store such as Clean Master.
15. Power Saving Manager
Never forget to turn off the built-in Power Saving manager from Samsung to extend battery life. For moderate user experience, enable it once you are finished using the smartphone. You may also download other apps such as Greenify or Juice Defender for advanced management.
16. Maintaining Storage
Your device doesn't feature an unlimited number of storage and it is best to transfer old photos or videos to a computer. More files being indexed by the processor can eat away battery life.
17. Resolution
Be selective on image and video resolution when downloading or capturing multimedia files. High resolution requires more processing which consumes a lot of power even to the most advanced smartphone.
18. Airplane Mode
Activate Airplane Mode to stop the device from looking network coverage that doesn't exist. Use it as well during your sleep if you are not expecting anything or simply desire to get a quiet time.
19. Re-Calibrate
You can re-calibrate the battery to improve its life every quarter. If the device is rooted, get an app at the Play Store. If not, you can drain the battery until it turns off on its own then recharge it fully without any interruption or usage - it may take three to four hours to complete.
20. Do Not Drain the Battery
Draining the battery is only advisable for calibration but not on every day situation. Draining the battery unit often can damage its overall life based on the discharging and recharging cycle. When you have the charger, plug it in during low battery level.