Did you know your iPhone has an interesting feature called Clean Energy Charging, quietly introduced in iOS 16?
This sounds cool, right? It basically helps your iPhone charge when more clean energy (like solar or wind) is available in your area, lowering your carbon footprint. Pretty neat!
But here’s the catch: it might take a bit longer to fully charge your phone.
So, what does this mean for you? If you’re all about being eco-friendly, Clean Energy Charging is a great way to go green without even trying.
But if you need your phone charged quickly every morning, like I do (because, let’s face it, mornings are rough), the slower charging might be annoying.
The good news is that you have a choice. Clean Energy Charging is on by default, but you can easily turn it off in Settings if speed is more your thing.
Here’s how:
1. Open the Settings app, scroll down, and select Battery.
2. Tap Charging Optimization.
3. Tap the toggle on the right of Clean Energy Charging.
Note: This feature is currently only available in the U.S. You won’t see it in your settings if you’re located elsewhere.
4. Select Turn Off or Turn Off Until Tomorrow when you get the prompt.
Bottom Line
I decided to turn this off because I can help the environment in many other ways that can make a much bigger difference.
For example, I minimize single-use plastics, use water mindfully, take advantage of natural light, turn off unnecessary lights, etc.
This feature can also drain your battery faster because it relies on continuous location tracking.
You need to turn on several location services, including a feature like “Significant Locations” that keeps a record of frequently visited places.
That’s how it can forecast solar and wind energy production in your area to determine when the local grid uses the cleanest energy sources.
In the end, the choice is yours. Do you want to charge green or charge fast? With Clean Energy Charging, Apple allows you to make a difference for the planet, even if charging your phone takes way longer than usual.
If you have any questions, leave a comment below.
