The battery of our phone is, without a doubt, one of the most critical and sensitive components on any mobile device. Over time and after numerous charging cycles and daily use, its health and performance are inevitably affected. Not knowing the battery's true status can lead to reduced battery life and risks to the device's safety or optimal performance. Therefore, it's essential to understand how to monitor battery status on Android and what tools exist to access the most relevant information, from charging cycles to manufacturer-specific diagnostics, including the most reliable apps in the industry.
Why is it essential to know the battery status on Android?
Never before has it been so necessary monitor battery healthThis component experiences natural wear and tear due to load cycles and daily use. A battery in poor condition not only drastically reduces the device's autonomy, but can also cause unexpected blackouts, overheating and, in extreme cases, even irreversible damage to the terminal.
Modern manufacturers have opted for non-removable internal batteries, making replacement even more difficult for the user. Detecting the first signs of deterioration early is key to avoid major inconveniences and to make the decision to replace the battery before the phone becomes unusable.
- Autonomy and performance: A deteriorated battery affects usability, forcing you to charge your phone more often and rely on external power sources.
- Security: Overheating, swelling, and charging failure can lead to risks to the physical integrity of the device.
- Durability: Knowing the battery status allows you to apply preventive maintenance measures and extend the terminal's useful life.
What does battery health mean on Android?
When we talk about battery health, we are referring to the actual load capacity remaining compared to the original factory capacityOver time, this figure decreases as a result of complete charge cycles and usage patterns. A battery health above 85% is considered good, while percentages below 80% should raise concerns.
Symptoms of a degraded battery may include:
- Faster download
- Overheating
- Unexpected shutdowns
- Charging problems or erratic battery indicators
Knowing the health of the battery helps us anticipate these problems and decide whether it's advisable to replace it.
Methods to check battery status on Android
There are several methods to know the health of the battery on an Android phone. Some provide detailed data on consumption and charging cycles, while others focus on quick diagnostics. The option chosen will depend on the make and model of the device, the Android version, and the tools installed by the manufacturer.Below, all the options are outlined, along with their advantages and limitations.
1. Check the information from the system settings
In the latest versions of Android and on certain brands (such as Xiaomi, Google Pixel, and some Samsung models with custom versions), you may find a dedicated battery section within the settings menu.
- Accede to Settings > Battery.
- Look for a section called Battery status o Battery info.
- Some brands include data on temperature, estimated maximum capacity, and charge cycles.
ImportantNot all Android devices offer this option. Many devices only display the charge percentage and the apps that consume the most power, but not health information.
2. Access using secret codes on Android
Android hides a Diagnostic menu that can be accessed by entering codes in the Phone appOne of the most universal is * # * # * # * # 4636, which opens the battery usage and status information panel.
- Open the Phone app.
- Introduce * # * # * # * # 4636.
- You will access a menu where, if available, you can consult Battery status (Good/Not good), voltage, temperature, technology, etc.
WarningThis method doesn't work on all devices, especially some Samsung, Xiaomi, and other brands with custom interfaces. If that doesn't work, we recommend using alternative methods.
3. Manufacturer-specific tools
Some brands have developed proprietary diagnostic applications which allow you to analyze the battery status in greater detail:
- Samsung: The app Samsung Members It comes pre-installed on most models and allows you to perform diagnostics from the "Support" section, by accessing "Phone Diagnostics" and then "Battery Status." Here, it will show whether the battery is in "Good," "Normal," or "Weak" status.
- Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO: In recent versions of HyperOS there is a specific menu in Settings > Battery > Battery Protection > Battery Information where you can see the health percentage, temperature, and daily charge cycles. Additionally, in some cases, you can use the code * # * # * # * # 6485 on the phone to access advanced information (such as the MB_06 value).
- Other brands: Look in the settings or support center to see if there is a similar tool under the heading “battery health” or “diagnostics.”
4. Third-party applications to check battery status
If none of the above options are available on your mobileThe best alternative is to use trusted apps specialized in battery monitoring and analysis. Remember to only download well-known, highly rated apps to ensure reliable data.
- AccuBatteryConsidered the most comprehensive and reliable app for monitoring battery health on Android. It calculates estimated real capacity, monitors charge and discharge cycles, and provides information on temperature, charging speed, voltage, and more. After several days of use, it allows you to compare the current capacity with the original capacity and identify actual battery wear.
- CPU-Z: Historically used to view data about a phone's hardware, it has a "Battery" tab that displays health (Health: Good), temperature, voltage, and status. It's useful, but the information may be limited on certain models.
- Ampere: Provides information on battery health, temperature, charging current, and more. Its analysis is quick and straightforward.
- Device Info: Displays detailed system and battery information, including health status, voltage, temperature, capacity, and whether the device is charging.
- AIDA64: More oriented towards displaying technical information, it also displays relevant battery data such as health, temperature and discharge rate.
- For example, if you want to learn more about how to check the battery status of your mobile phone, you can visit our section on recommended applications.
In all cases, continued use of the apps will provide more accurate estimates of battery health, as they collect data over multiple charge cycles.
5. Check the charging cycles
A charge cycle is not simply charging the phone from 0 to 100%, but A cycle is equivalent to consuming 100% of the total capacity by adding different charging sessions. (e.g. charge from 40% to 90% then from 90% to 50% etc.). Most lithium ion batteries are designed to withstand between 300 to 500 full cycles before maximum capacity begins to drop significantlyFrom there, the degradation accelerates.
How to interpret battery health information
The information obtained after performing diagnostics and using the applications must be interpreted correctly. The most common values to review are:
- Estimated maximum capacity (in mAh): The closer it is to the original value, the better the battery condition will be.
- Health: Generally displayed as Good, Average, Weak, etc.
- Temperature: Temperatures below 50°C are normal. Consistently higher temperatures may indicate problems.
- Number of charge cycles: After 300-500 cycles, degradation will become more evident.
- Voltage: The normal range for a lithium battery is 3.7V to 4.2V.
If the battery life drops below 80-85%, the user experience will be affected: fewer hours of battery life, a higher risk of sudden shutdowns, and overheating. If the battery life drops below 70%, it is recommended to replace the battery as soon as possible to avoid risks.
When should you change the battery on an Android phone?
There are characteristic symptoms of a bad battery which should put us on alert and make us consider replacement:
- Sudden shutdowns even when the battery percentage is higher than 10 – 20%.
- Drastic reduction in autonomy, need to charge several times a day.
- Frequent overheating even if the phone is idle or in light use.
- Loading errors (it doesn't recognize the charger, it discharges faster than it charges, etc.).
- Battery swellingIf you notice that the case is bulging or the phone doesn't close properly, turn off the device and consult a specialized technician immediately, as there is a risk of toxic liquid and gas leakage.
A battery showing these symptoms should be replaced as soon as possible for safety reasons and to prevent further damage to the device. Many manufacturers and service centers offer quick battery replacements with genuine replacement parts.
Tips to increase battery life on Android
- Avoid full charges and total discharges: Keep your battery between 20% and 80%, avoiding always charging to 100% or letting it drain completely.
- Use the official brand charger and safe loading certifications.
- Protect your phone from extreme temperaturesHigh temperatures are one of the factors that most accelerate battery deterioration. The optimal range is between 16 and 22°C.
- Use low power modes when you don't need maximum performance.
- Disable unnecessary functions (Bluetooth, GPS, WiFi, background apps) to reduce consumption.
- Keep the operating system up to date: Updates often improve the device's power management.
- Avoid exposing the device to direct sunlight for long periods.
Although following these tips can extend your battery's lifespan, wear and tear is inevitable. Monitoring its condition periodically will allow you to make informed decisions about when to replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Battery Health on Android
Is it advisable to use apps that promise to “repair” or “optimize” your battery?
Most apps that claim to "repair" your battery only offer aggressive battery-saving modes already present in the system and don't improve actual capacity. It's best to rely solely on analysis and monitoring apps that provide objective data, avoiding unreliable apps that can negatively impact performance.
Does overheating always indicate a damaged battery?
Not always. It could be due to intensive use (gaming, GPS navigation), malfunctioning apps, or system issues. However, if your phone gets hot even when idle, or the temperature frequently exceeds 50°C, it's a good idea to check the battery.
Can you change the battery on a current mobile phone at home?
In most modern cell phones, the battery is not easily removable, and disassembly is required. If you're inexperienced, it's best to consult a professional service center to avoid damage and ensure safety.
What does it mean when the battery is swollen?
A swollen battery indicates gases generated by internal chemical reactions, a sure sign of serious deterioration. Do not use the device, turn it off, and contact a technician as soon as possible.
Does fast charging reduce battery life?
Fast charging, although convenient, can increase battery temperature and therefore accelerate battery wear. Using smart charging systems that limit the maximum charging percentage or limit the speed outside of emergencies is recommended.
What happens if I ignore the symptoms of a bad battery?
Continuing to use a smartphone with a weak battery can lead to damage to the device itself: reboots, freezes, data loss, or even physical damage to the motherboard due to voltage spikes. It can also pose physical risks if the battery leaks or explodes due to excessive swelling.
Checking the battery status on iPhone: How does it compare to Android?
On iPhones, Apple includes a specific section in Settings > Battery > Battery health This displays the maximum capacity percentage and maintenance suggestions. If the value drops below 80%, Apple itself recommends replacing the battery to avoid performance issues or unexpected shutdowns. This feature isn't yet standard on all Android devices, although some manufacturers are starting to include it.
Special case: refurbished and second-hand mobile phones
If you are going to buy a second-hand or refurbished mobile phone, it is essential check battery status Before purchasing, ask the seller for diagnostic screenshots or run the tests yourself using one of the recommended apps to find out if you'll need to replace the battery soon.
Monitoring your Android battery's health is a fundamental habit for maintaining your phone's performance, security, and longevity. There are multiple methods, tools, and practical tips to monitor wear, anticipate serious problems, and avoid unpleasant surprises. Being informed and acting promptly will make the difference between a functional device and one that could let us down at the worst possible moment. If you notice signs of degradation, don't let it go: detecting it and responding early is the best way to keep your Android phone performing like new.
