Mobile phone technology has come a long way since the devices were first introduced, and the same can be said of the batteries that power the cell phones we use every day.

New combinations of metals inside the batteries have meant that they hold more power for their mass (energy density) and hold it for longer than many other types of battery. There have also been developments with the materials used for battery casings. Both these things combined has meant that the batteries are now generally lighter and more effective.

The most common battery for a mobile phone is Lithium Ion, which is almost twice as powerful as a Nickel Battery, and has the highest density of any battery on the market. Lithium batteries can hold power for a long time, but can be damaged if they are overcharged.

If your mobile battery does reach the end of its shelf life, replacements are available direct from mobile manufacturers, or other companies that sell ‘compatible’ batteries. It’s always worth checking the Milliamp Per Hour rate on compatible batteries though, as the power held in them could be a lot less than your original battery. It’s also important that you drain and safely dispose of your old mobile phone batteries, so the material doesn’t affect the environment.