There are four types of batteries available for mobile phones:
Nickel Cadmium (NiCd)
These are least expensive of rechargable batteries, but suffer from inherent shortcomings like memory effect. Here, if the battery is not fully drained before recharging, the unused portion crystallizes hence the complete capacity of the battery is not fully used.
Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
This technology offers 30 to 40 percent longer operation as compared to NiCd batteries but it is susceptible to loss of performance at higher temperatures.
Lithium Ion (Li-ion)
The prime advantage of these batteries over NiMH are that they hold more energy for same weight and volume. Therefore, Li-ion batteries are much smaller and thinner in comparison. Also, they don't have any inherent memory effect. The only disadvantage is that they cost more than others.
Lithium Ion Polymer (Li-Po)
Li-Po batteries are rechargable batteries that have evolved technologically from Li-ion batteries. A significant advantage of these batteries is that manufacturers can shape the battery almost however they please, which is very important to mobile phone manufacturers constantly working on smaller, thinner, and lighter phones. Many latest phones, PDAs use these types of batteries.
Steps for longer battery life
In case the mobile phone uses NiCd or NiMH batteries, let them get discharged completely before you recharge them
* Check that phone's battery contacts are clean
* Keep the batteries in cool, dry place, away from heat and magnetic objects
* Don't leave the batteries dormant over an extended period of time.
* Switch of features such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not in use
* Many mobile phones allows to customize the brightness and contrast of LCD screen. Setting these values low will prolong battery-life
* Keeping the sound level for ringtones and other audio notifications at low will help you increase time your battery lasts.
* Do not expose battery at extreme temperatures.
* Do not overcharge battery
* Use battery chargers specified by the manufacturer only.
