In another example embodiment, a mobile device has one or more sensors that are configured to detect the presence of fog or frost on a surface of the mobile device. A battery provides power to the mobile device. An energy transfer element which, when activated, removes fog or frost from the surface of the mobile device is provided. A programmed processor, within the mobile device, is programmed to: read one or more sensors disposed in the mobile device to determine if there is a fog or frost condition; upon detecting a fog or frost condition, activating the heater element to remove fog or frost; and upon detecting an absence of the fog or frost condition, deactivating the energy transfer element.