PEOPLE are only just realising why their phone battery runs out so quickly.
New research has analysed phone battery habits when connected to the older 4G data network compared to its faster 5G counterpart.
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According to speed experts at Ookla, phones connected to 5G dwindle quicker than those on the older network.
The type of device and processor also play a role in running down battery life.
In a blog post, the web service said: “Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data shows that smartphone users accessing 5G networks experience higher battery drain than for those using 4G-LTE, of between 6% and 11%, depending on the System on Chip (SoC) in their device”.
For example, a Galaxy phone with Samsung’s Exynos 2100 chip inside uses 8% more battery when downloading files and films over 5G.
The latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which is found in almost all modern Androids, runs out 6% faster and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 drops its battery 9% quicker.
For those who left their chargers at home, it’s recommended you switch to 4G when your device is losing life.
Most devices and mobile networks will allow users to make this switch via the settings app.
When 5G is activated, the device not only works faster but can also cope with other devices connected to it.
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The technology also means your device is constantly seeking out new networks.
Samsung said: “Because your phone is connected to multiple networks simultaneously, the battery will drain faster than one would typically expect, and the phone may get warmer than when solely on 3G or LTE.”
Users flocked online to express their shock.
One remarked: “I kept wondering why I lost so much life before I got to work.”
Another said: “Invaluable info!”
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