In our last two articles we’ve told you a bit about how lithium ion batteries work and why they sometimes expand . Today we’re going to round out our series on batteries with a few tips on the best ways to make sure your batteries last as long as possible. Batteries are one of the most important components in cell phones, tablets, and laptops - they’re what make your mobile devices mobile. By keeping the battery in your device healthy, you can extend the useful lifespan of the entire device. Here’s how. Avoid Extreme Temperatures The first thing to do is avoid extreme temperatures, especially extreme heat. Heat increases the wear on a battery’s internal components and can shorten its lifespan. So in general, try to avoid leaving your phone, tablet, or laptop in a hot car or laying out in the sun on a hot summer day. Run Fewer Apps in the Background Another thing you can do to keep your battery healthier longer is to reduce the amount of things your device is running i...