We all love seeing our phones charging quickly from 0 to 80% in minutes. But what’s actually happening inside when you plug in that fast charger?
1. The Basics
Fast Charging is all about pushing more power (watts) into your phone’s battery in a shorter time.
And old chargers were used to send 5V/2A (10W). Now, the modern adapters are coming with 25W, 65W, and even 120W.
2. How It Works
Most phones and chargers communicate through charging protocols like Qualcomm Quick Charge, USB Power Delivery (PD), or proprietary ones like OnePlus Warp or Xiaomi HyperCharge.
The phone tells the charger how much power it can safely take. Once approved, voltage and current increase together to fill the battery quickly, especially during the first 50-70%.
3. The Two-Stage Process
- Stage 1: Rapid Charge, where it fills the battery quickly until around 70-80%.
- Stage 2: Trickle Charge, slows down to protect the battery as it reaches 90%.
That’s why you will see your phone jump fast early on, but it slows charging from 90-100%.
4. Is It Safe?
Yes, as long as you use official or certified chargers. Modern phones have built-in temperature sensors and charging controllers to prevent overheating.
My suggestion is not to go with cheap third-party chargers, though, can mess with voltage regulation and damage your battery over time.
5. Tips for Better Charging
- Avoid charging in hot environments.
- Don’t use your phone heavily while fast charging.
- Unplug once it hits 100%.
- Go with the brand’s original charger or a reputable certified one.
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