How to Optimize Battery Life while using Sidekick

Whether you're using a Mac, Windows laptop, tablet, or phone, optimizing your device's battery life while using Sidekick involves a combination of smart settings, habits, and maintenance. This guide first outlines universal tips that apply across all platforms, followed by device-specific recommendations for deeper optimization.

Universal Battery Optimization Tips

These strategies apply to any device and can significantly improve battery performance:

1. Reduce Screen Brightness

Lowering screen brightness conserves power.
Enable adaptive brightness on supported devices to auto-adjust based on lighting.

2. Use Power-Saving Modes

Activate built-in battery-saving features like Low Power Mode or Battery Saver.
Customize these settings to activate automatically based on battery level.

3. Limit Background App Activity

Close apps you're not using.
Disable background refresh for non-essential apps to prevent hidden power drains.

4. Keep Software Up-to-Date

Regular system updates often include battery efficiency improvements and bug fixes.

5. Disable Unused Features

Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and location services when not needed.
Unplug unnecessary accessories and peripherals.

6. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Keep your device within recommended temperature ranges to avoid battery degradation.

Device-Specific Optimization Tips

Mac

Enable Low Power Mode: Go to System Settings > Battery and turn it on for battery or always.
Use Native Apps: Stick to Apple apps like Safari, QuickTime, and iWork to reduce energy usage.
Optimize Battery Charging: Enable this under Battery > Battery Health for improved longevity.
Dim Display and Manage Streaming: Reduce screen brightness and toggle "Optimize video streaming while on battery."
Disconnect Peripherals: Unplug unused external devices to minimize power draw.

Windows

Use Battery Saver Mode: Access via Settings > System > Power & Battery and set preferences.
Adjust Power Plans: Customize sleep and hibernate behavior in Power & sleep settings.
Calibrate the Battery: Occasionally charge to 100%, then drain to 0% to reset battery readings.
Ensure Ventilation: Prevent overheating by using the laptop on hard surfaces with good airflow.

Phone

Optimize Charging Habits: Keep battery between 20–80%. Avoid overnight charging and limit fast/wireless charging.
Enable Adaptive Brightness & Dark Mode: Especially helpful on AMOLED displays.
Shorten Screen Timeout: Reduce idle display time to save power.
Limit Notifications and Location Services: Disable non-critical alerts and tracking features.

Tablet

Use Power-Saving Mode: Activate from settings to limit background activity and lower brightness.
Close Background Apps: Exit unused apps to stop them from consuming power.
Choose Simple Wallpapers: Use static images instead of animated or complex designs.
Disable Auto-Sync: Turn off real-time syncing for apps that don’t need it constantly.

If you have any questions or need any assistance please reach out to support.sidekick@prompthealth.com