Winterizing Your Phone-Really?

You might remember that this year I am working with U.S. Cellular.  It’s been lots of fun.  I am glad I did as it’s made me learn how to use my phone better.  Sadly I am one of those people who has a few electronics but don’t take the time to learn all about them.  Working with U.S. Cellular has forced me to learn lots.   In today’s post I’m sharing with you a few things I learned about winterizing my phone.

Having a good case is important.  This is something I already knew.  I am not a girl with a fashion friendly cover for my phone.  U.S. Cellular recommends the LifeProof case.  I know at our house we’ve replaced a couple phones due to water damage.  This case claims it can be under 2 meters of for an hour.

Years ago when Kelli was a cheerleader for Upper Iowa she was cheering at a game.  Her phone was under the bleachers in an outer pocket of her back pack.  It was ruined because of rain water even though it was in a back pack and under the bleachers!  A case like this would have prevented that.

There are great apps out there that tell the weather which is a must have with our winter weather.  There are several free ones AccuWeather, MyRadar Weather Radar, The Weather Channel and WeatherBug.  Hubby is a fan of National Weather Services App but my favorite is the app from our local television station.  I use it lots in the summer to watch severe weather.  I’m sure I’ll use it lots this winter keeping up to date on snow fall and cold temperatures.

I had no idea that phone battery life is greatly diminished when exposed to cold temperatures.  The phone’s performance dips like the winter temps. Cellphone batteries that would provide 100 percent capacity at 80 degrees will typically only deliver 50 percent when it’s 0 degrees outside.  Knowing this makes me want to run out and buy all of my kids a car phone charger!

The newest technology always amazes me.  I learned that there is a new phone out the Kyocera DuraForce.  It is an ultra-rugged smartphone that is certified to operate all the way down to negative 22 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also certified IP68 waterproof, so it can be fully submerged up to 6 feet deep for up to 30 minutes, and with its “Wet & Glove Touchscreen Operation,” you can use the phone while wearing your winter gloves and the touchscreen will continue to operate when the phone gets snow or rain on it.  I know the guys in my life that work outside all winter who have sworn off cell phones will love to hear about this new phone.

I know I’ll love when it’s standard that all smart phones work with regular winter gloves.

I have a good case.  I have two weather apps and I always have a charged battery…looks like my phone is ready for winter…now if only I was ready for winter.  I have to admit, it’s my least favorite season.