Are there any phones or tablets out there that can run on the charger cable only, completely missing the battery?

@zzffyfajzkzhnsweqm@sh.itjust.works 2026-05-15 21:04

I think most phones work with a battery removed. I think your best bet would be phones with removable batteries.

@Cort@lemmy.world 2026-05-15 21:11

The Samsung phones up to S5 did when I had them

@outbound@lemmy.ca 2026-05-15 21:04

Note quite what you’re use case is, but if you’re looking to have something permanently plugged-in without risk (or, at least microscopic risk) of battery swelling/fire, recent models of Samsung phones+tablets have a “Maximum battery protection” mode where you can limit charging to 80%. I use an old Galaxy S22 as a control panel for the solar+inverter+security systems in my travel trailer - its permanently plugged in and just happily hangs on the wall keeping cool and doing its thing.

Open ##2594449

@abominable_panda@lemmy.world 2026-05-15 22:30

If you’re somewhat technically inclined, maybe the extra pins on the battery contacts are for NTC thermisters? Perhaps attach a fixed resistor in its place to fool the phone?

Open ##2594807

@mesamunefire@piefed.social 2026-05-16 00:02

Just take out the battery of any phone like a fairphone and most will work.

Open ##2595083

@racketlauncher831@lemmy.ml 2026-05-16 02:43

Have you tried removing the battery out? I assume you did, but have you tried taking it to a repair shop and ask to short the charging pin to the battery power pin?

Open ##2595581

@ByteMe@lemmy.world 2026-05-16 05:31

I think, either the LG p990 or the galaxy alpha, do work without battery

Open ##2596050

@vext01@feddit.uk 2026-05-16 07:06

Ive often wondered this too. A tablet with no battery would make a good Lyrion client.

Open ##2597572

@theparadox@lemmy.world 2026-05-16 02:22

If I remember correctly, some of the ROG phones could actually run directly from the cable bypassing the battery. I think the idea was that it could be plugged in and gaming without wearing down the battery.

Open ##2609273

@formlessoedon@lemmy.ml 2026-05-16 12:52

Pixel has bypass power. It’s unfortunate that it’s paying Google. I’ve been very happy with my used 8 on Graphene.

Open ##2613891

@Melonpoly@lemmy.world 2026-05-16 13:14

Some gaming phones have passthrough

Open ##2614243

Replies (11)