Yes, you can use your phone while it's charging. There's no inherent danger in doing so.
When you use your phone while it's plugged in, the charging process might slow down because the phone is using some of the power it's receiving to operate. In other words, the battery is charging at a slower rate than it would if the phone were idle.
Here's a breakdown of what happens:
- Power Distribution: The power adapter sends electricity to your phone. The phone's power management system then decides how much power goes to charging the battery and how much goes to running the phone's functions.
- Slower Charging: Using power-intensive apps (like games or video streaming) while charging will significantly slow down the charging speed. The phone might even discharge slightly if the power draw is higher than the charging input, although this is rare with modern phones and chargers.
- Heat: Using your phone extensively while charging can generate heat. While modern smartphones have safety mechanisms to prevent overheating, prolonged excessive heat can potentially degrade the battery over time. It's generally best to avoid heavy usage while charging, especially in warm environments.
Is it harmful?
Using your phone while charging isn't generally harmful under normal circumstances. However, consider these points:
- Cheap or Damaged Chargers: Using a low-quality or damaged charger can be dangerous, whether you're using the phone or not. These chargers may not provide stable power and could potentially damage your phone or even pose a fire risk. Always use a reputable charger from a trusted brand.
- Extreme Heat: As mentioned above, prolonged heavy usage while charging can generate excessive heat, which could affect battery lifespan over the long term.
In summary, using your phone while charging is generally safe. Just be mindful of the charging source and avoid prolonged, intensive use that could cause excessive heat.
