Apple builds a lot of smart features into iOS to help your iPhone last longer, and Optimized Battery Charging is one of the most important. If you want to keep your iPhone battery healthier over the long term, this is the feature you should be using.
Here’s an expert guide that breaks down what it does, why you should use it, and exactly how to set it up.
What Is Optimized Battery Charging?
Your iPhone uses a lithium-ion battery, which naturally degrades over time — meaning it holds less charge the older it gets. One of the main causes of battery wear is leaving it at 100% charge for long periods, especially overnight.
Optimized Battery Charging slows the charge once your iPhone reaches 80%. It then learns your daily routine (like when you wake up) and finishes charging the last 20% just before you typically unplug it. This reduces battery aging while still giving you a full charge when you need it.
How to Turn On Optimized Battery Charging
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Battery.
- Select Battery Health & Charging.
- Toggle on Optimized Battery Charging.
That’s it — your iPhone will now manage charging intelligently in the background.
How It Works in Daily Use
- At night: Your iPhone charges quickly up to ~80%, then pauses.
- Before you wake up: Based on your habits, iOS completes the last 20%.
- When routines change: If you travel or wake up earlier, your iPhone adjusts automatically.
Benefits of Optimized Battery Charging
- Extends battery lifespan — slows chemical aging.
- Prevents overheating — less stress on the battery.
- Smart learning — adapts to your charging routine.
When to Turn It Off?
While it’s great for everyday charging, there are a few times you might want to switch it off temporarily:
- If you need 100% charge sooner than usual (early flight, long trip).
- When using your iPhone with MagSafe Battery Pack or external charging accessories.
To disable it:
Go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging → Optimized Battery Charging → Off (Until Tomorrow).
✅ Final Expert Tip
Optimized Battery Charging is one of those “set it and forget it” features. Once it’s on, you don’t need to manage it daily — your iPhone learns your patterns and protects the battery for you. If you care about battery health long-term, this is a must-enable feature.
Quick FAQ — Optimized Battery Charging on iPhone
Q1: Does Optimized Battery Charging slow my iPhone?
No — it only changes how your iPhone charges, not how it performs. Your speed and performance stay the same.
Q2: Should I leave my iPhone charging overnight?
Yes, it’s safe. With Optimized Battery Charging on, your iPhone will hold at ~80% and only finish charging before you normally wake up.
Q3: Can I force 100% charge instantly?
Yes — if you need a full charge earlier, you can turn Optimized Battery Charging off temporarily under Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging.
Q4: Does it work with all chargers?
It works with Lightning, USB-C, and MagSafe chargers — as long as iOS can detect your charging patterns.
Q5: Which iPhones support Optimized Battery Charging?
Any iPhone running iOS 13 or later, including iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
