What does the sign of a battery and a bolt of lightning on the screen mean?

[iMore Question]

what does the sign of a battery and a bolt of lightning on the screen mean?

my power cord accidentally fell in the water early today....the screen shows a picture of a battery, with a lightening bolt above it when i press the power on ....
went to Verizon, their power cord did not work on my iPhone 4.....do i need a new battery, cord or phone?

 

[kch50428]

Re: what does the sign of a battery and a bolt of lightning on the screen mean?

It means the device needs to be charged.... And if your cord is water damaged, and your phone won't charge with another cord... That indicates you have an issue with your phone that may or may not be repairable.

 

[Just_Me_D]

Re: what does the sign of a battery and a bolt of lightning on the screen mean?

Normally, it means the phone's battery is too depleted to power on. Having said that, use a new Apple USB cord and wall block and charge it undisturbed for about an hour. With the exception of it having water damage or other mechanical issues, the device should power up long before an hour.