iPhone5-34Flat-iOS7_PRINTHaving low or no battery life on your smartphone is already a stressful problem. But now, a lack of juice may present an even worse problem for those of us flying back home.

The Transportation Security Administration is upping their security protocols to now check battery levels on electronic devices of passengers flying to the U.S. from other countries.

Depending on where you’re flying from — the TSA has not specified which airports will be checking for battery levels — you may be forced to leave your phone at the airport if it does not have a charge.

From a TSA press release posted Sunday:

As the traveling public knows, all electronic devices are screened by security officers. During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. The traveler may also undergo additional screening.

Reports indicate that the new procedure is being implemented in light of heightened security concerns, particularly with flights to the U.S. from the Middle East and Europe. It’s not clear if the TSA will have chargers available, or what exactly defines a “powerless device,” but it’s probably not a bad idea to make sure you’ve got at least somewhat of a charge before coming back to the States.

Related: FAA: You can now use your personal electronic device during takeoff and landing 

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