iPhones are a great source of efficiency and communication. We use them so often that their batteries die often. This leads people to wonder, can an iPhone be used while charging? 

iPhone owners can use their iPhones while charging. This will not stop the battery from charging, but it is recommended that you use caution when doing so.

Now that you know you can use the iPhone while it charges, keep reading to learn about the repercussions, what you can and can’t do well, and safety precautions.

Effects of Using iPhone While Charging

According to Apple, the iPhone can be used while it charges with minimal repercussions. 

The iPhone is designed so that a user can use it while it is on the charger, and it will act normally.

It is important to note, though, that Apple does admit that the iPhone charging speed may slow down when a user chooses to utilize their phone as it charges.

This is because applications, texts, and calls take battery life from the phone. 

This means less charge will go to the battery, and more will go to the application or function in use.

You can put your iPhone in a different mode, like Low Power, to speed up charging.

Using iPhone While Charging

It is possible to use an iPhone as it is plugged into a charger or charging on a charging mat. Not all functions will perform at peak performance this way. The ones that will are:

  • Text
  • Scroll through social media
  • Write a note or reminder
  • Set an alarm
  • Add a calendar item
  • Check your stocks
  • Look at email

These basic tasks are optimal to do when your phone is charging. This is because they use less power and require basic processing speeds to carry out these tasks.

Also, consider how old your iPhone is before using it so much while charging. Your battery might not be optimized or working efficiently anymore.

Don’t Do These Things When iPhone Is Charging

While there are some really easy things you can do while you wait for your iPhone to charge, on the phone itself, there are also things you should avoid. 

Do not do these things while charging:

  • Talk on the phone
  • Play a game
  • Listen to music
  • Edit a document
  • Watch a movie
  • Edit or take videos/photos

Performing these tasks take more processor speed and space. It can cause the phone to overheat and slow the battery down. 

This could affect the overall performance of the iPhone.

Safety Concerns: Using iPhone While Charging

Some people will tell you that it is unsafe to use your iPhone while charging. While there isn’t a lot of scientific data available, there are reported cases of injury. Some risks include:

  • Battery will expand and ruin your phone
  • Battery can overheat and potentially spark
  • The charger can break or overheat
  • You run the risk of getting shocked when using electronics that are directly plugged in
  • Batteries can explode and cause burns or harm

Keeping this in mind, it is important to use safety precautions when using an iPhone while charging. Some of the best tips to ensure you are safe are:

  • Minimize use. Only use the iPhone on the charger for quick texts or a glance at your calendar.
  • Keep away from water. Keep all charging electronics away from water to avoid shock.
  • Watch the time. Check if your phone is charged and remove it from the charger as soon as it is so it does not overheat.
  • Replace the battery. If you notice a battery leaking or bulging, replace it to prevent potential hazards.

By keeping these precautions in mind, you can safely use your iPhone while it charges without the chance of harming yourself or your iPhone.

Using your iPhone will also be difficult if you’re charging it wirelessly.

iPhone Won’t Work While Charging

Occasionally, the iPhone will function improperly when it charges. 

This means you may be unable to use it as intended during the charging process. But why is this happening?

These common issues can occur when you are trying to charge your iPhone and use it at the same time. Technology is not perfect, but most issues can be troubleshot.

If your iPhone keeps turning off, we have some other troubleshooting tips to try.

No Wait Required

Because of the way the iPhone is built, users do not have to wait until it is fully charged before they can use it. Smartly using it will extend the battery life and convenience you further.