Is your iPhone getting too hot to handle? Don’t worry, it’s a common issue that happens to many users. To quickly cool down an overheating iPhone, turn it off, move it away from direct sunlight, and let it cool in a shaded area until it returns to normal temperature. Putting your hot device in the refrigerator or using ice directly on it might seem tempting, but these methods can damage your iPhone by causing condensation inside.
Heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can harm your iPhone’s battery and internal components. When your device gets too hot, you might notice it slowing down, the screen dimming, or even showing a temperature warning. Apple designed iPhones to work best between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C), so keeping your device within this temperature range helps prevent performance issues.
Many things can make your iPhone hot, including heavy gaming, video streaming, or charging while using demanding apps. Sometimes the problem comes from being in a hot car or direct sunlight. Updating apps, restoring backups, and even poor cell service can cause your device to work harder and heat up. Taking steps to manage these activities will help keep your iPhone running cool and smooth.
How to Cool Down an Overheating iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide
If your iPhone feels unusually hot, it’s important to act quickly to prevent damage and maintain performance. Here’s how to cool down your iPhone safely.
Why Does an iPhone Overheat?
Common reasons include:
- Intensive app or game usage
- Charging while using heavy apps
- Exposure to direct sunlight or hot environments
- Software glitches or background processes
- Hardware issues or battery problems
Steps to Cool Down Your iPhone
1. Remove the Case
- Take off any protective case to allow heat to dissipate faster.
2. Stop Charging
- Disconnect your iPhone from the charger. Charging generates additional heat.
3. Close Intensive Apps
- Double-click the Home button or swipe up (on Face ID models) to open the app switcher.
- Swipe away apps that are using a lot of processing power, like games or video editors.
4. Turn on Low Power Mode
- Go to Settings > Battery and enable Low Power Mode to reduce background activity and performance strain.
5. Move to a Cooler Environment
- Bring your iPhone indoors or into the shade.
- Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, inside a hot car, or near heat sources.
6. Enable Airplane Mode
- Swipe down from the top-right corner (or up from the bottom on older models) to access Control Center.
- Tap the Airplane Mode icon to disable wireless radios and reduce heat.
7. Restart Your iPhone
- Hold the power button and either volume button, then slide to power off.
- Turn it back on to clear temporary glitches that may cause overheating.
8. Update iOS and Apps
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates.
- Update apps via the App Store to fix bugs causing excessive CPU use.
9. Disable Background App Refresh
- Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and turn it off or limit it to Wi-Fi only.
10. Reset Settings (If Persistent)
- If overheating continues, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.
- This won’t delete your data but will reset system settings that might cause issues.
What Not to Do
- Don’t put your iPhone in the fridge or freezer: Rapid temperature changes can damage internal components.
- Don’t cover your iPhone with anything while charging: This traps heat.
- Don’t use resource-heavy apps while charging.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your iPhone frequently overheats despite these steps, or if it becomes hot to the point of discomfort, contact Apple Support or visit an authorized service provider. It could indicate a battery or hardware issue.
Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Remove case | Allows heat to dissipate |
| Stop charging | Prevents additional heat |
| Close intensive apps | Reduces processor load |
| Enable Low Power Mode | Limits background activity |
| Move to shade/cool area | Avoids external heat |
| Enable Airplane Mode | Disables wireless radios |
| Restart iPhone | Clears glitches |
| Update iOS and apps | Fixes bugs |
| Disable Background Refresh | Saves resources |
For more details, see Apple’s official support: iPhone gets hot.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off your iPhone and keep it out of direct sunlight when it overheats.
- Remove any case and close background apps to help your device cool down faster.
- Update your iOS and apps regularly to prevent software-related heating issues.
Understanding iPhone Overheating
iPhones can get hot during use due to various factors that strain their internal components. Heat buildup affects both the device’s performance and lifespan if not addressed quickly.
Common Causes of Overheating
Direct sunlight is one of the biggest culprits behind an overheating iPhone. Leaving your phone in a hot car or on a sunny windowsill can quickly raise its temperature beyond safe levels.
Resource-heavy apps like games and video editors make your processor work harder, generating extra heat. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models, despite their advanced cooling systems, can still heat up during intensive tasks.
Background app activity often causes unexpected warming. Apps that constantly update, use location services, or process data can make your phone hot even when you’re not actively using it.
Charging your iPhone, especially with fast chargers or wireless charging pads, creates heat as a byproduct. This is normal but can become problematic in hot environments.
Software issues like bugs in iOS updates sometimes cause the processor to work harder than necessary. Some iPhone 16 users reported this after specific updates.
Symptoms and Effects of Overheating
When your iPhone gets too hot, it will display a temperature warning message on screen. This is your first clear sign that action is needed.
Performance throttling happens automatically when heat builds up. Your phone slows down apps, reduces screen brightness, and limits cellular connections to generate less heat.
The Apple logo may appear if your device needs to shut down from extreme heat. This protective measure prevents permanent damage to internal components.
Battery life suffers greatly from overheating. High temperatures degrade battery cells faster, reducing your iPhone’s overall lifespan and daily runtime between charges.
Charging stops automatically when your iPhone detects excessive heat. This safety feature prevents damage but can be frustrating when you need power quickly.
Initial Quick Fixes
When your iPhone starts getting too hot, taking quick action can prevent damage and restore normal function. These simple steps can help cool down your device fast without needing technical skills.
Remove from Direct Sunlight
If your iPhone is overheating, the first step is to check where it’s located. Direct sunlight can quickly raise your device’s temperature to dangerous levels. Move your iPhone to a cooler, shaded area immediately.
Hot cars are especially dangerous for phones. The temperature inside a parked car can rise dramatically, even on mild days. Never leave your iPhone on a car dashboard or seat in sunny weather.
A cool indoor spot works best for cooling down your device. Place it on a hard surface like a table rather than soft surfaces like beds or couches that can trap heat.
If you’re outside, put your phone in a bag or pocket away from the sun. Wait a few minutes before checking if it has cooled down before using it again.
Turn Off Unused Features
Your iPhone works harder when multiple features run at once, generating extra heat. Location services are among the biggest battery and heat culprits. Turn these off when not needed by going to Settings > Privacy > Location Services.
Enable Airplane Mode temporarily to shut down all wireless connections at once. This gives your phone a chance to cool down faster. Access this from Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner.
Other features to disable include:
- Bluetooth
- Background app refresh
- Push notifications
- Animated wallpapers
Lowering your screen brightness also helps reduce heat. The display uses significant power, so dimming it when your phone is hot can make a big difference.
Adjusting iPhone Settings
Your iPhone has built-in settings that can help manage overheating issues. Making a few simple changes can keep your device running cooler and prevent temperature warnings.
Enable Low Power Mode
Low Power Mode is a helpful feature that reduces power consumption and helps cool down your iPhone. When activated, it limits background activity and performance.
To turn on Low Power Mode:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone
- Tap on “Battery”
- Toggle on “Low Power Mode”
You’ll know it’s on when the battery icon turns yellow. Your iPhone will automatically reduce screen brightness and stop background app refresh. This cuts down on processor usage, which generates less heat.
Low Power Mode also stops automatic downloads and some visual effects. These changes might slow down your iPhone a bit, but they help lower the temperature when your device is getting too hot.
Monitor Battery Health
Your iPhone battery health directly affects how much heat your device produces. Older or damaged batteries work harder and generate more heat.
To check your battery health:
- Go to Settings app
- Tap “Battery”
- Select “Battery Health & Charging”
This screen shows your battery’s maximum capacity and peak performance capability. If these numbers are low, your battery may be causing overheating.
Apple recommends keeping your iPhone out of direct sunlight to protect battery health. High temperatures can permanently damage battery capacity. Consider replacing your battery if health drops below 80% to reduce overheating issues.
Close Running Apps and Free Up Storage
Too many apps running in the background or low storage space can make your iPhone work harder and heat up. Regular maintenance helps prevent this problem.
To close background apps:
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen (or double-click the home button on older models)
- Swipe left or right to find unused apps
- Swipe up on each app to close it
Free up storage by:
- Deleting unused apps
- Removing old photos and videos
- Clearing app caches
When setting up a new iPhone, it may feel warm while indexing data. This is normal. However, if an older phone constantly overheats, low storage could be the culprit. Try to keep at least 10-15% of your storage free for optimal performance.
Software Updates and Management
Managing your iPhone’s software properly is a key defense against overheating. Regular updates and app monitoring can significantly reduce heat issues and improve overall performance.
Update to the Latest iOS Version
Keeping your iPhone’s operating system current is essential for preventing overheating problems. Apple regularly releases bug fixes in their updates that address known issues causing devices to run hot.
To update your iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Download and install any available updates
- Connect to Wi-Fi and keep your phone plugged in during updates
iOS 17 and the newer iOS 18 contain specific improvements to thermal management. If you’re using an older version, upgrading might solve your overheating issues.
When updating, it’s best to do so in a cool environment. Updates make your processor work harder, which can generate extra heat. If your phone gets too hot during an update, move it to a cooler place and try again later.
Identify Problematic Third-Party Apps
Some apps can make your iPhone run hot by using too much processing power. Finding and fixing these problem apps can quickly cool your device.
To check which apps are using the most battery (and likely causing heat):
- Go to Settings > Battery
- Look at the battery usage by app list
- Pay attention to apps with high percentages
Apps running in the background can be major heat culprits. You can limit background activity in Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Turn off this feature for apps you don’t need updating constantly.
For immediate cooling during severe overheating, enabling Airplane mode can help by reducing system load. You might also try closing all open apps by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and pausing, then swiping up on each app.
Advanced Troubleshooting
When simple cooling methods don’t work, it’s time to try more technical solutions for an overheating iPhone. These steps can help fix underlying system issues that cause heat problems.
Reset All Settings
If your iPhone continues to overheat even after basic cooling methods, resetting all settings might help. This process keeps your data intact but returns all settings to factory defaults.
To reset all settings:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap General
- Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset
- Select Reset All Settings
- Enter your passcode when prompted
This step can fix hidden settings that might cause your device to work harder than needed. Many users report this fixes overheating issues caused by background processes.
After resetting, you’ll need to reconnect to Wi-Fi networks and reconfigure some preferences. The iPhone will restart during this process. This won’t delete your photos, apps, or other content.
iOS System Recovery
For severe overheating problems that persist after trying other methods, iOS system recovery can help. This fixes core system files that might be causing your device to overheat consistently.
You can try these methods:
Using iTunes/Finder:
- Connect your iPhone to a computer
- Open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac)
- While connected, force restart your iPhone
- When prompted, choose “Update” instead of “Restore”
Using Recovery Mode:
- Connect to computer with latest iTunes/Finder
- Force restart your iPhone but keep holding buttons
- Release when recovery mode screen appears
- Choose Update when prompted
This process reinstalls iOS without erasing your data. It takes about 15-30 minutes to complete. Your phone will restart several times during the recovery.
Professional Assistance
Sometimes iPhone overheating issues require expert help beyond basic troubleshooting. Tech professionals can diagnose complex problems and provide solutions when DIY methods aren’t working.
Contacting Tech Support
When your iPhone continues to overheat despite trying basic cooling methods, Apple Support should be your first contact. They have specific tools to run remote diagnostics on your device.
You can reach Apple Support through multiple channels:
- Phone: Call the toll-free number for immediate help
- Chat: Use the Apple Support website or app
- Apple Store: Book a Genius Bar appointment
Support agents will ask about your device model, iOS version, and recent activities. Be ready to share when the overheating started and what you were doing at the time.
If your iPhone is under warranty, repairs for overheating issues caused by hardware defects are typically covered. Out-of-warranty repairs may involve costs, so ask for estimates before proceeding.
Consulting Verified Experts
If you prefer a second opinion, verified experts on tech platforms can help with overheating issues. These professionals often have years of experience with Apple products.
Platforms like JustAnswer connect you with certified technicians who can assess your problem remotely. These experts can:
- Analyze your usage patterns
- Identify apps that might cause overheating
- Suggest specific settings changes
When consulting experts, provide clear details about your problem. Note which apps were running when overheating occurred and any error messages you received.
Many verified experts offer free initial assessments. This can help you decide if the issue requires professional repair or if simpler solutions might work. Always check credentials before paying for advice.
Preventive Measures
Taking steps to prevent iPhone overheating is easier than dealing with an already hot device. These simple habits can protect your phone and extend its life.
Maintaining Ambient Temperature
Keep your iPhone away from direct sunlight. The sun’s UV rays can quickly cause your iPhone to overheat. This is especially important during summer months.
Never leave your iPhone in a car on a hot day. Cars act like greenhouses, reaching dangerous temperatures that can permanently damage your battery.
When outdoors, store your phone in a shaded bag or pocket. If you must use it in the sun, keep sessions brief.
In the car, mount your iPhone on an air vent to keep it cool. The flowing air helps maintain safe temperatures even during navigation or music streaming.
Consider using a phone case with cooling features. Some cases have built-in fans or heat-dissipating materials that help control temperature.
Regular Performance Checks
Check for apps that drain battery and create heat. Delete unused apps and close background programs regularly. Heavy games and video apps often cause overheating.
Update your iOS system. Apple often includes thermal management improvements in updates that help control heat problems.
Monitor your battery health through Settings > Battery > Battery Health. A declining battery often runs hotter and needs replacement if below 80% capacity.
Adjust screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level. Bright screens use more power and generate more heat.
Consider using low power mode when you don’t need full performance. This reduces processing demands and keeps temperatures lower during extended use.
If gaming, take short breaks every 20-30 minutes to let your phone cool down naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
iPhone overheating can be frustrating and concerning. Here are answers to common questions about cooling down your device and preventing heat issues.
What steps can I take to cool down an overheated iPhone?
If your iPhone feels hot, first move it to a cool place away from direct sunlight. Take off any case you’re using to help heat escape faster.
Turn off your iPhone to speed up the cooling process. Some users report that their phones got so hot they couldn’t hold them without getting burned.
You can also try putting your iPhone in airplane mode since this turns off many background processes that generate heat.
Why does my iPhone suddenly feel hot to the touch?
Your iPhone might heat up due to heavy app usage, especially games or video streaming apps. These tasks make the processor work harder.
Direct sunlight is a common cause of overheating. Even a few minutes in hot sun can warm your device significantly.
Charging your phone, especially with a case on, can cause heat buildup. Background apps running continuously may also contribute to overheating.
What should I do if my iPhone displays an overheating warning?
When you see the temperature warning, Apple recommends you turn off your device immediately and move it to a cooler environment.
Wait until the phone cools down before trying to use it again. The warning appears to protect internal components from damage.
Do not place your iPhone in a refrigerator or freezer to cool it down, as this can cause condensation to form inside and damage the device.
Can overheating cause damage to my iPhone?
Yes, frequent or extended overheating can damage your iPhone’s battery and internal components. The battery is especially vulnerable to heat damage.
Over time, heat exposure can reduce your battery’s capacity and lifespan. This means shorter times between charges.
In extreme cases, overheating might cause permanent damage to your phone’s processor or other sensitive electronics.
How can I prevent my iPhone from heating up during charging?
Remove your case before charging to allow better heat dissipation. Cases can trap heat that builds up during charging.
Avoid using your iPhone for demanding tasks while it’s charging. Reducing screen brightness can also help keep temperatures down.
Charge your phone on hard, cool surfaces rather than soft materials like beds or couches that can insulate heat.
Is there a way to check the current temperature of my iPhone?
Apple doesn’t provide a built-in way to check your iPhone’s exact temperature. This information is monitored internally by the system.
Third-party apps claim to show temperature readings, but most only estimate based on battery temperature sensors and may not be accurate.
If your iPhone feels warm to touch or shows performance issues, it’s best to take cooling measures regardless of the exact temperature.
