How to Fix an Iphone that is Getting Hot (Overheating)

iPhones are designed to operate optimally within temperatures ranging from 0 to 35 degrees Celsius. Consequently, when exposed to extreme heat, your mobile device may encounter difficulties. Overheating can gradually deplete the battery in your iPhone, leading to noticeable delays in its performance. As the temperature increases, the phone may progressively slow down. However, environmental heat isn’t the sole factor. Continue reading to explore further reasons behind your iPhone’s overheating.

 

1. Cool down your phone

When you phone are overheating, you should start by cooling it down. Here are three simple ways to cool it down:

  • Reduce your screen brightness: A high screen brightness setting can use up a significant amount of energy and generate heat. Lowering the brightness can alleviate strain on your battery and assist in decreasing the temperature.
  • Stop charging: Charging your iPhone can generate heat, so if it’s already warm, disconnecting it from the charger can be beneficial. Placing your phone on a flat, cool surface can assist in facilitating its cooldown.

 

Restart or switching of your iPhone

Occasionally, the simplest solution is the most effective. Switching off your iPhone provides it with a reprieve from all operations and enables it to cool down. Additionally, it resets any processes that may be contributing to excessive strain.  Here are the steps to restart your iPhone:

  1. Press and hold the side button and the volume button simultaneously until the power-off slider appears.
  2. Swipe across the power off icon from left to right.
  3. To power your device back on, press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears.

Switching the phone of and letting it cool off completely is often a recommended solution. Restart it once it has cooled off.

Once it is cool, you can proceed to the next steps which are outlined below.

 

2. Fix the Possible Causes of Overheating

There can be many possible causes of overheating in iphones. The most common are the following:

 

Overuse

When your iPhone is engaged in demanding tasks such as running graphically intensive games, streaming content, utilizing resource-heavy applications, or extended video recording sessions, it may experience overheating. The solution here is to reduce the intensity of your iPhone activities.

 

Insufficient storage space

When your iPhone overheats, it might indicate that it’s running low on storage. Clearing out unnecessary files and photos can provide your device with the necessary space to operate efficiently. Tools like CleanMy®Phone can be incredibly helpful in this scenario. They are designed to assist you in swiftly identifying and eliminating duplicate photos, redundant screenshots, and other clutter with minimal effort, offering an effective solution for reducing overheating by freeing up valuable space on your iPhone.

 

Phone covers

iPhones release heat into their surroundings through the rear shell, and placing a case on the iPhone can impede this heat dissipation process. Take the iPhone out of its case.

Employing a white or light-colored case to shield your iPhone can restrict the heat it absorbs, thus maintaining a cooler internal temperature overall.

 

Software updates

Numerous activities occur during and after the installation of updates, such as the reindexing of photos, which can significantly utilize processing power and consequently lead to temporary device overheating. Typically, normal operation resumes within a few days post-update installation. Allow the iPhone to complete its background tasks. If issues persist, it is probable that a bug within the update is causing them, and the remedy will likely be another update from Apple.

 

Disable auto-brightness

Auto-Brightness is a useful feature that adjusts the screen brightness of your iPhone according to varying lighting conditions. However, not only can it sometimes malfunction, but it can also be an energy-consuming process that might contribute to your iPhone overheating. Here’s how to turn off the Auto-Brightness feature:

  1. Open your iPhone and go to Settings.
  2. Tap on ‘Accessibility.’
  3. Select ‘Display & Text Size.’
  4. Scroll down to find Auto-Brightness and toggle it off.

 

Weak signal or extensive data consumption

When situated in an area with a weak signal, your iPhone exerts more effort to sustain a connection, leading to potential overheating. Likewise, prolonged data consumption activities such as video streaming, downloading large files, or conducting backups can contribute to overheating. Relocate to an area with stronger signal reception. Opt for lower resolution streaming choices, such as 1080HD instead of 4K, whenever feasible.

 

Damaged battery

With time, batteries may deteriorate or sustain damage. A swollen or damaged battery can lead to overheating. Seek battery servicing from Apple or an authorized third-party repair provider.

 

3. Preventing your Iphone from Getting Hot

Remember these precautions to keep your iphone from getting hot in the future:

 

Shut down unused apps

Apps operating in the background can deplete your battery and produce heat. Utilize the App Switcher to close apps that you’re not actively using.

 

Do not leave your phone in direct sunlight

Subjecting your iPhone to temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius can impair its functionality. Ensure your phone is kept in shaded areas or cool environments, but refrain from extreme measures such as placing it in the refrigerator, as this can result in condensation.

 

Use Low Power Mode

If you anticipate using your iPhone in hot conditions, activate low-power mode to prevent it from exerting excessive effort. This feature reduces the display brightness and prevents background apps from refreshing. You can access it by navigating to Settings > Battery > Low Power Mode.

 

Utilize an Apple charger

To prevent battery overload and overheating, it’s advisable to employ chargers supplied by Apple or those certified by the company (avoid any other chargers).