Batteries in mobile devices

Batteries in mobile devices get a bad wrap.
As users of phones, we don't want to have to think about how long the battery will last.
As developers, we don't want to have to think about the impact on battery life our apps will have.

Unfortunately, as developers, we do need to consider our codes implications on battery life.
It's not all bad though.
Battery lifetimes have been increasing though. It's just that devices have started having larger screens (which require more power) and are packed with more sensors.
Things have got better in more ways too. I can now buy a device and use it straight out of the box. It's not too many years ago when the first thing you had to do after buying a new device was take it home and charge the battery for 12 or more hours. Far from a delightful first experience with a wonderful new phone.
Yes this is only a small thing and due to a change in battery technology. I was just struck by this recently though and think it's important to remember all the little improvements we have seen while we focus on building the future.

We're not yet in battery utopia where batteries last indefinitely. Maybe we never will be. Just don't forget what we do now, compared to how things used to be. ;)