Apple has introduced expanded charging limit options for iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models in iOS 18, offering users greater control over their device’s battery health. Previously capping at 80%, these limits now include new options of 85%, 90%, and 95%.
How to Use Expanded Charging Limits
The system aims to improve battery longevity by reducing the time your iPhone spends fully charged, beneficial for users who frequently keep their devices plugged in.
- Open the Settings App:
- Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Select Battery:
- Tap Battery.
- Choose Charging:
- Select Charging.
- Set Your Preferred Charging Limit:
- Choose from the available options: 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95%.
Consider your daily usage patterns when deciding on a charging limit. If you have frequent access to charging, a lower limit like 80% or 85% might be sufficient. For those needing more battery life between charges, 90% or 95% could be more suitable. You can always adjust these settings as your needs change, and iOS 18 offers the option to temporarily disable the limit for a full charge when needed.
Charging Recommendations
iOS 18 also proactively recommends a specific charging limit based on your usage habits. If you have an iPhone 15 or iPhone 16, you may receive a notification suggesting an optimal charging limit for your device, which will also appear in the Settings app under Battery → Charging.
Slow Charger Warning
iOS 18 introduces a slow charger warning. In the Settings ➝ Battery menu, the battery level graph now shows an orange color where slow charging has occurred over the past 24 hours. If the charge duration reaches a certain threshold, a “Slow Charger” warning will appear above the graph. Apple has yet to specify what charging speed triggers this warning, but it can help users identify if their devices aren’t charging at full speed due to outdated or incompatible chargers.
Many wireless chargers advertise MagSafe compatibility but only offer Qi speeds or slower. This feature helps iPhone users determine why their devices might not be charging efficiently, although it would be more useful with an alert option.
These features, exclusive to iPhone 15 and 16 lineups, help users better manage their battery health and charging efficiency.