Top iPhone Myths Debunked: What’s True and What’s Not in 2025

When it comes to iPhones, there’s no shortage of advice — and misinformation. From charging habits to performance rumours, these myths get passed around like urban legends. But what’s true in 2025, and what’s just outdated advice?

Let’s take a look at the most common iPhone myths — and the facts you should know.

⚡ Myth 1: You Shouldn’t Charge Your iPhone Overnight

Debunked: Not true — modern iPhones are smart enough to manage overnight charging.

The truth: iPhones now include a feature called Optimised Battery Charging, which learns your daily habits and slows charging once it reaches 80%, finishing the last 20% just before you typically unplug it. This reduces battery ageing.

Tip: Make sure it’s enabled under Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging.

🔋 Myth 2: Closing Background Apps Saves Battery Life

Debunked: False — constantly closing apps may do more harm than good.

The truth: iOS automatically manages background activity. Forcing apps to close actually uses more power when you reopen them. Only close apps that are unresponsive or clearly draining battery.

🚿 Myth 3: iPhones Are Waterproof

Debunked: Not exactly — iPhones are water-resistant, not waterproof.

The truth: Newer iPhones (since iPhone 12) are rated IP68, meaning they can survive brief immersion in water (up to 6 metres for 30 minutes). But that doesn’t make them waterproof — water damage isn’t covered by Apple’s warranty.

Tip: Avoid using your iPhone in the bath, pool or heavy rain. If it does get wet, dry it thoroughly and bring it to iSmash for a moisture inspection.

🧠 Myth 4: More RAM Automatically Means a Faster iPhone

Debunked: Not always — RAM isn’t everything.

The truth: iPhone performance is heavily influenced by Apple’s chip architecture (e.g., A17 Bionic), storage speed, and iOS optimisation. An older model with more RAM may still lag behind a newer device with less.

🔌 Myth 5: You Must Use Apple Chargers Only

Debunked: False — third-party chargers can be perfectly safe.

The truth: As long as your charger is MFi-certified (Made for iPhone) and meets safety standards, it’s completely safe to use. Apple-branded accessories are high quality, but not the only reliable option.

Warning: Cheap, uncertified cables can damage your phone or pose fire risks. Stick to reputable brands.

🔎 Myth 6: iPhones Don’t Get Viruses

Debunked: Mostly true — but not bulletproof.

The truth: iOS is one of the most secure mobile platforms thanks to its sandboxed app design and App Store vetting. But no system is 100% immune. Phishing, scam links, and dodgy Wi-Fi networks can still compromise your device.

Tip: Always update your iPhone to the latest iOS version and avoid installing unknown profiles or clicking suspicious links.

💾 Myth 7: You Can Clear RAM by Restarting the Phone

Debunked: Partially true — but it’s rarely necessary.

The truth: Restarting an iPhone clears temporary processes and memory, but iOS handles RAM management efficiently without manual input. Unless your phone is freezing or crashing, you don’t need to clear RAM manually.

📉 Myth 8: iPhones Are Designed to Slow Down Over Time

Debunked: A half-truth with context.

The truth: Apple introduced performance management in iOS 11 to prevent unexpected shutdowns in ageing batteries. While performance is throttled when the battery is degraded, users are now informed and can disable it.

Tip: To check your battery health, go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging. If your maximum capacity is under 80%, consider a battery replacement to restore performance.

👉 Book an iPhone battery replacement at iSmash

🧼 Myth 9: You Can Clean Your iPhone Screen With Household Cleaners

Debunked: Dangerous — never use alcohol-based or abrasive cleaners.

The truth: iPhones have an oleophobic coating to reduce fingerprints. Harsh chemicals can strip this coating, leading to permanent damage.

Tip: Use a soft, slightly damp microfibre cloth. For stubborn grime, try a cleaner specifically labelled as safe for electronics.

🔊 Myth 10: Louder Volume Means Better Sound Quality

Debunked: Not necessarily — louder isn’t always clearer.

The truth: At full volume, tiny smartphone speakers can distort sound. The iPhone's speakers are good, but not designed for maxed-out output all the time.

Tip: For best quality, keep volume around 70–80%, or use external speakers or headphones for an enhanced experience.

✅ Final Thoughts

Whether you're an iPhone expert or just bought your first device, it's easy to get caught up in myths. But understanding the truth behind how your iPhone works can save you battery life, performance issues, and even money.

Need help with your iPhone battery, water damage or diagnostics? We’re here to help.

👉 Visit your nearest iSmash store for fast repairs and expert advice.