Docomo Phone Battery Replacement Costs and Timelines Explained

Have you ever faced the frustrating situation where your phone battery dies at the most critical moment, potentially making you miss important information? As smartphone usage increases, battery degradation has become a growing concern. Issues like reduced battery life and charging abnormalities not only affect user experience but may also pose safety risks. It might be time to consider a battery replacement. This article focuses on NTT Docomo phone battery replacement, providing detailed information about replacement methods, costs, time requirements, and important considerations to help you solve your battery problems.

Phone batteries are consumable components that gradually degrade over time. Battery aging doesn't just lead to shorter battery life but can also cause the following problems:

• Frequent charging: Reduced battery capacity requires more frequent charging, negatively impacting user experience.
• Inaccurate battery display: The phone may show incorrect battery levels and suddenly power off.
• Charging abnormalities: Slower charging speeds or inability to fully charge the battery.
• Battery swelling: In severe cases, batteries may swell, creating potential safety hazards.

Continued use of degraded batteries can not only affect normal phone operation but may also damage hardware components. Therefore, timely battery replacement is crucial for maintaining proper phone function and extending device lifespan.

NTT Docomo offers multiple battery replacement options to accommodate different user needs.

The NTT Docomo online store provides convenient "online repair service" allowing battery replacement without visiting a physical store. The process includes:

• Online application: Log in to the NTT Docomo online store, complete the repair request form, and select battery replacement service.
• Receive loaner device and shipping materials: NTT Docomo will mail a temporary replacement phone and shipping materials for your device.
• Ship your phone: Package and send your phone requiring battery replacement to NTT Docomo.
• Wait for repair: NTT Docomo will perform the battery replacement upon receiving your device.
• Receive repaired phone: After completing the battery replacement, NTT Docomo will return your phone by mail.
• Return loaner device: After receiving your repaired phone, return the temporary replacement device to NTT Docomo.

Advantages:

• No need to visit physical stores, saving time and effort.
• Loaner device provided to ensure normal usage during repair.
• Free shipping reduces replacement costs.

Users can also visit NTT Docomo physical stores for battery replacement:

• Make appointment: Call ahead or schedule online to avoid waiting.
• Visit store: Bring your phone and relevant documents to the scheduled NTT Docomo store.
• Complete paperwork: Inform staff about battery replacement needs and complete necessary procedures.
• Wait for repair: Leave your phone at the store for battery replacement.
• Receive notification: NTT Docomo will notify you via email or phone when repair is complete.
• Retrieve phone: Return to the store to collect your device.

Advantages:

• Face-to-face consultation with staff for more information.
• Some stores may offer faster repair services.

Considerations:

• Some stores may require advance appointments.
• Additional fees (like shipping charges) may apply when retrieving your phone.

For iPhone users, battery replacement must be arranged through Apple. NTT Docomo online stores don't provide iPhone battery replacement services. Options include:

• Apple Retail Stores: Visit an Apple Store for battery replacement.
• Apple Support Website: Schedule repair service through Apple's official support site.
• Apple Authorized Service Providers: Contact authorized providers for battery replacement.

Considerations:

• Advance appointments are recommended to avoid waiting.
• Some authorized providers may require longer repair times.

Some Android phones allow user-performed battery replacement. However, many modern phones feature non-removable batteries.

DIY replacement steps:

• Purchase battery: Buy a compatible battery from NTT Docomo online store or other sources.
• Remove back cover: Carefully detach the phone's back cover using proper tools.
• Replace battery: Remove old battery and install the new one.
• Reattach cover: Secure the phone's back cover.

Advantages:

• Cost savings on replacement.

Risks:

• Potential phone damage from improper replacement.
• Possible voiding of phone warranty.

Recommendation:

• Not recommended for users unfamiliar with phone repairs.
• Always review phone manual for proper replacement procedures before attempting.

Replacement costs vary by phone model, battery type, replacement method, and insurance coverage.

• Removable batteries: User-replaceable batteries cost approximately ¥1,500 to ¥4,000.
• Non-removable batteries: Professional replacement costs may approach ¥10,000 without insurance. With NTT Docomo phone insurance, costs may be capped at ¥3,300 (as of December 2020). Note that standard insurance typically covers water damage or complete device failure rather than normal battery degradation.

iPhone battery replacement costs vary by model. As of December 2020:

• iPhone X and newer models: ¥7,400
• iPhone SE and earlier models: ¥5,400

AppleCare+ subscribers may qualify for free battery replacement if capacity falls below 80% of original.

Replacement duration depends on the chosen method:

• NTT Docomo Online Store: Approximately 1-2 weeks, with loaner device provided.
• NTT Docomo Physical Stores: Typically 1-2 weeks, though in-person processing may reduce total time by eliminating shipping periods.
• Apple Retail Stores: Usually 1-2 hours, though battery inventory limitations may extend wait times to about one week. Advance confirmation of stock and appointments are recommended.
• DIY Replacement: Requires 1-2 days for battery delivery plus variable time for actual replacement based on user skill.

Certain circumstances may qualify users for free battery replacement:

• AppleCare+: Covers free battery replacement for non-user-caused failures during warranty period. Damage from drops or impacts requires paid repair.
• NTT Docomo Phone Insurance: May cover free repairs for qualifying failures under policy terms. Standard battery aging typically isn't covered, and even qualifying claims may require copayments (like ¥3,300).

Before replacing your NTT Docomo phone battery, note these key points:

• Data backup: NTT Docomo initializes phones before battery replacement, erasing all data. Always backup contacts, photos, videos, music, and other important information beforehand.
• Select appropriate replacement method: Choose the most suitable option based on your circumstances. Those unfamiliar with phone repairs should opt for NTT Docomo online or physical store services.
• Understand replacement costs: Clarify all potential fees before proceeding to avoid unexpected charges.
• Consider new device purchase: For older phones with high battery replacement costs, purchasing a new device may be more economical.

Batteries are critical smartphone components, and their degradation significantly impacts user experience. Understanding NTT Docomo phone battery replacement options, costs, time requirements, and considerations helps users effectively address battery issues and extend device lifespan. This comprehensive guide provides valuable reference information for making informed battery replacement decisions.