Users report issues with Apple iPhone 4S batteries

Apple's iPhone 4S smartphone is packed with new features, such as the Siri voice-recognition capability, location awarenes and wireless data synchronization. But could some of the new functions be straining the iPhone's built-in battery?

Consumers have been raising iPhone battery-life issues online at Apple's technical support forum, tech websites and even at our sister site, the Consumerist.

Some have suggested that there may be issues related to various new iPhone 4S hardware features, such as the phone's faster dual-core processor or the sharper HD camera. However, some tech sites suspect the real culprit may be Apple's recently-updated iOS 5 software -- including its continuously active location tracking function.

Despite 180 pages of messages on Apple's official online support forum, the company has been mum on the issue so far.

Apple has reportedly asked certain affected customers to install monitoring software so the company's engineers can determine the cause and extent of the possible issue.

Consumer Reports' lab technicians continue their tests on the Apple iPhone 4S, including its battery performance, and we'll report back soon on their outcome.

iPhone 4s Battery Life? [Apple Support Community]
Apple iPhone 4S Battery Life Still Circling the Drain? [Time's Techland Blog]
iPhone 4S battery issue reminiscent of 'antennagate' [CNet]
Apple engineers contacting iPhone 4S owners to solve battery life puzzle [UK Guardian]