Is Your iPhone 7 Plus Safe to Recharge with an Android Charger?
Is it safe to recharge your iPhone 7 Plus using one of the Android phones' fast chargers, like the Lenovo Zuk Z2? The short answer is yes, it is generally safe. However, there are a few important points to consider to ensure both your phone and the charger remain in good condition.
Voltage and Amperage
The iPhone 7 Plus, like every other smartphone, has built-in charging circuitry to regulate the voltage and amperage it receives. As long as the charger outputs a standard voltage, typically 5V, it should be compatible. However, it’s important to note that older iPhones, such as the iPhone 7 Plus, support a maximum charging speed of 2.1A, or 10W with a compatible charger. If the Lenovo charger provides more than this, the iPhone will only draw the amount of current it can handle. Therefore, the charger will not damage your phone, but it may not charge as quickly as it would with a compatible charger.
Quality of Charger
Ensure that the Lenovo charger is from a reputable brand and is in good condition. Poor quality chargers can lead to overheating or other issues. Always opt for chargers from well-known brands to minimize the risk of damage.
Cable
Use a good quality USB cable that is compatible with both devices. An Apple-certified cable is recommended for the best performance and safety. A low-quality cable can also lead to overheating or reduce the charging speed, making it less effective.
Summary
In summary, using the Lenovo Zuk Z2 charger should be fine, but always monitor the phone while charging to ensure it doesn't overheat. Overheating can degrade the battery’s performance and lifespan, so it's essential to be cautious when charging your device.
Additional Points to Consider:
Every smartphone has circuitry that regulates how much electricity it allows in to recharge its battery. This is why different chargers can charge a phone at different rates. An iPhone, for instance, can recharge faster with an iPad charger. However, the phone's built-in circuitry ensures it doesn’t draw more current than it can handle, which is why using a different charger is generally safe.
Understanding Voltage and Amps
The iPhone's charging circuit is designed to handle up to 2.1A at 5V. This means that if a charger provides more than this, the phone will only use what it needs. Let's break down the concept of voltage and amperage:
Voltage (Volts)
Volts measure the force or energy in the electrical circuit. Think of voltage as a water pump that can apply force to pull electrons out of the power supply. A weak pump (low voltage) may not be as effective, but a too strong pump (high voltage) can cause damage.
Amps (Ampere)
Amps measure the quantity of electrons being passed. Think of amps as units of water, or electrons, flowing through the wire. If a charger provides too high an amp rating, the excess current can overheat the battery and potentially cause damage.
USB Standards
USB has a series of electrical standards that dictate voltage and amps. These standards are crucial for ensuring that device manufacturers and cable manufacturers can handle the required electrical loads without risking damage to the system. Fast charging systems can change the voltage or provide more amps than is normal, but they must communicate this to the device to prevent overcharging.
Final Thoughts
Using a different charger, such as an Android charger, is generally safe for your iPhone 7 Plus. However, always ensure that the charger is from a reputable brand and that the cable is of good quality. Additionally, monitor your phone while charging to avoid overheating, which can harm your battery. If you notice any unusual behavior, it’s best to stop charging and contact a professional for assistance.