It’s common for iPhones to get warm during normal use and while charging. However, excessive or prolonged heating could indicate an underlying issue.
What causes iPhones to heat up?
There are several normal activities that can cause an iPhone to get hot temporarily:
- Using processor-intensive apps like 3D games, video streaming or navigation apps
- Multitasking with several apps open at once
- Downloading or uploading large files
- Using AR apps
- Streaming music and videos
- Using the camera for an extended time
- Using GPS or location services
- Charging the phone
During these activities, the iPhone’s CPU and GPU have to work harder, which generates more heat. The battery may also heat up when charging, especially if using a faster charger.
It’s completely normal for the iPhone to get warmer in these situations. The device is designed to withstand and dissipate reasonable amounts of heat.
Is it normal for an iPhone to get hot while charging?
Yes, it’s normal for an iPhone to get warm while charging. When you plug in your iPhone to charge, the battery starts receiving power from the charger and converts it into electrical energy. This conversion process causes the battery and phone to heat up slightly.
Charging also requires your iPhone’s processor and charging circuitry to work harder, generating additional heat. Using a faster charger that provides more power can make the phone warmer.
Apple states that iOS devices are designed to regulate their temperature and charging rate to keep the temperature within acceptable levels during normal use. So moderate heating during charging is not a cause for concern.
Tips to avoid overheating while charging
- Use the original charger and cable that came with your iPhone.
- Avoid using your phone intensively while charging.
- Do not charge in direct sunlight or hot environments.
- Remove thick phone cases before charging.
- Use a 10W or lower power adapter for slower charging.
- Restart your iPhone if it gets abnormally hot.
How hot is too hot for an iPhone?
Apple does not provide an exact temperature that is considered unsafe for iPhones. However, as a general rule of thumb:
- 113° to 122°F (45° to 50°C) – This is warmer than usual but not yet overheating.
- 122° to 131°F (50° to 55°C) – The iPhone is getting dangerously hot.
- 131°F (55°C) and above – Overheating territory, risk of damage or shutdown.
You can get a rough estimate of your iPhone’s temperature using an infrared thermometer or temperature monitoring apps. Tap near (but not directly on) the Apple logo on the back of the iPhone for the most accurate reading.
Remember that hotter temperatures are expected during intensive activities like gaming or navigation use. But if your iPhone reaches uncomfortable temperatures during normal use, it likely indicates a problem.
When is iPhone overheating dangerous?
Occasional, mild iPhone heating is not a big concern. But consistent, excessive overheating can damage the components and battery over time.
Here are some dangerous overheating signs to watch out for:
- Very hot to the touch, uncomfortable to hold
- Temperature warning message displays on screen
- Apps stutter, crash or run slower than usual
- Battery charges more slowly or drains faster
- Screen dims or changes appearance
- Phone turns off on its own to cool down
If you notice these issues persistently, it’s time to identify and resolve the overheating problem. A hot iPhone suggests something is causing abnormal CPU, GPU or battery activity.
What are the main reasons an iPhone overheats?
Here are some of the common triggers that can lead to an overheating and abnormally hot iPhone:
Software issues
- Buggy apps draining CPU/battery in background
- Outdated iOS version
- Too many resource-intensive apps open
- Syncing large amounts of data to iCloud
- Corrupted software/files
Hardware problems
- Dirty or blocked charging port
- Damaged battery
- Dust buildup in heat sinks
- Faulty power circuits
- Bent or damaged frame
Environmental factors
- Using in direct sunlight
- No airflow (pocket or cover)
- Ambient temperatures too high
Other factors
- Older iPhone model
- Charging with high wattage charger
- Heavy phone case
- Using while charging
Identifying the specific cause can help you troubleshoot and fix overheating issues more effectively.
How to fix an iPhone that is overheating
Try these troubleshooting tips if your iPhone is getting uncomfortably or dangerously hot on a persistent basis:
1. Remove case and stop charging
Remove any thick cases or covers and unplug from charger if plugged in. This helps dissipate heat immediately.
2. Close all apps
Double click the Home button and swipe up on all apps to force close them. This stops background activity.
3. Turn on Airplane mode
Tap on Settings > Airplane mode to temporarily disable all radios and connections.
4. Move iPhone to cooler location
Move your iPhone to a shaded or air-conditioned spot to let it cool down.
5. Clean ports and vents
Use a soft brush to gently clear any debris from the ports, speakers and airflow vents.
6. Update iOS software
Install the latest iOS update, as it may fix bugs causing high CPU usage.
7. Reset iPhone settings
Go to Settings > General > Reset and choose Reset All Settings. This fixes software issues.
8. Restore iPhone
Backup data and then erase and fully restore your iPhone using iTunes or Finder. This wipes any corrupted data.
9. Disable background app refresh
Turn off Background App Refresh in Settings for apps that don’t need it. This conserves CPU usage.
10. Check battery health
A worn out battery can overheat more easily. Check battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health.
11. Avoid direct sunlight
Don’t leave your iPhone charging in hot cars or direct sunlight.
12. Get iPhone serviced
For persistent overheating or if you get a temperature warning, contact Apple Support to troubleshoot hardware issues.
How to prevent iPhone overheating
Practice these habits to help avoid overheating problems:
- Don’t use intensive apps in hot environments
- Close background apps when not needed
- Keep iOS updated
- Turn off Bluetooth and GPS when not in use
- Remove or switch cases if too thick
- Avoid charging under pillows, blankets
- Clean ports and vents regularly
- Don’t charge and use intensively at same time
- Replace battery if capacity drops
Is iPhone overheating covered by warranty?
Excessive overheating can sometimes indicate a hardware defect covered under Apple’s 1-year limited warranty. But the warranty does not apply if:
- Damage was caused by abuse or improper use
- Phone has unauthorized modifications
- Battery capacity loss is due to normal wear and tear
So if there are signs of damage like a cracked screen or liquid damage, Apple may deny a warranty claim. Back up data and visit an Apple Store for proper diagnosis if your iPhone keeps overheating abnormally.
Conclusion
It’s very common for iPhones to get warm during charging or intensive use. Mild heating is not a concern. But persistent overheating can damage components and degrade battery life.
Watch out for temperature warnings on screen, unexpected shutdowns or throttling issues. Try simple troubleshooting like closing apps, updating iOS and moving iPhone to a cooler location.
Rule out software causes before considering hardware repair. Prevent overheating by avoiding extensive use in hot areas and managing background activity. Overall, monitor your iPhone’s temperature trends rather than brief warming.
