iPhones sometimes get hot while charging. This can be concerning for users who worry about their device’s safety and longevity. The main causes of iPhone overheating during charging include using the phone while it’s plugged in, faulty chargers, or high ambient temperatures.
Many factors can contribute to this issue. Using power-hungry apps or playing games while charging increases the heat generated by the device. Charging in direct sunlight or very warm environments also raises the phone’s temperature. Sometimes outdated software or damaged batteries lead to overheating problems.
Fortunately there are simple steps to prevent and fix iPhone overheating. Using official Apple chargers helps ensure safe power delivery. Removing the case while charging improves heat dissipation. Updating iOS to the latest version can resolve software-related heating issues. If overheating persists it may indicate a more serious hardware problem requiring professional repair.
It’s normal for your iPhone to feel warm while charging — especially during fast charging or heavy use.
However, if it becomes uncomfortably hot or displays a temperature warning, that indicates overheating.
This guide explains why it happens and how to prevent or fix it.
⚙️ Common Causes of iPhone Overheating While Charging
1. Fast Charging and Power Output
- Using a 20W or higher charger can cause temporary warmth — this is normal.
- Fast charging generates heat as a byproduct of rapid energy transfer.
- If the device gets too hot, iOS automatically slows or pauses charging to protect the battery.
(Source: Apple Community)
2. Using the Phone While Charging
- Running apps like FaceTime, games, or video streaming while charging adds extra processing load.
- This combination (charging + high CPU use) can cause the phone to heat up quickly.
(Source: Apple Community)
3. Environmental Temperature
- Charging in hot environments (like direct sunlight or a car dashboard) prevents heat from dissipating.
- Apple recommends keeping your iPhone between 32°F and 95°F (0°C–35°C) during charging.
4. Poor Ventilation or Cases
- Thick or insulated phone cases can trap heat.
- Wireless charging pads can also generate extra warmth if misaligned.
5. Software or iOS Updates
- After major updates (e.g., iOS 18.6.2), some users report temporary overheating due to system re-indexing or background tasks.
- This usually resolves within a few days.
(Source: Apple Community)
6. Faulty Cables or Chargers
- Non-certified or damaged accessories can cause power surges or inefficient charging, leading to overheating.
- Always use Apple-certified (MFi) cables and adapters.
🧊 Solutions: How to Fix iPhone Overheating When Charging
✅ 1. Stop Using the Phone While Charging
- Avoid gaming, streaming, or FaceTiming while plugged in.
- Let the phone charge undisturbed for faster, cooler charging.
✅ 2. Remove the Case
- Take off the phone case during charging to improve airflow and heat dissipation.
✅ 3. Move to a Cooler Environment
- Charge your iPhone in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
- Avoid charging in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
✅ 4. Use Certified Chargers
- Stick to Apple’s original charger or MFi-certified accessories.
- Avoid cheap third-party chargers that may lack proper voltage regulation.
✅ 5. Update iOS
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update and install the latest version.
- Apple often releases updates to optimize battery and thermal management.
✅ 6. Enable Optimized Battery Charging
- Go to Settings → Battery → Battery Health & Charging → Optimized Battery Charging.
- This feature learns your charging habits to reduce heat and battery wear.
✅ 7. Restart or Reset Settings
- A simple restart can clear background processes causing heat.
- If issues persist, go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset All Settings (this won’t erase data).
✅ 8. Check for Hardware Issues
If overheating continues:
- Inspect the charging port for dust or debris.
- Try a different cable and adapter.
- If the problem persists, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for a diagnostic check.
⚠️ When to Be Concerned
Seek help if:
- You see a temperature warning screen (“iPhone needs to cool down”).
- The phone shuts down automatically during charging.
- The battery drains unusually fast or the back feels excessively hot.
These may indicate a battery or hardware issue needing professional service.
💡 Pro Tips to Prevent Future Overheating
- Charge your iPhone on a hard, flat surface (not under pillows or blankets).
- Avoid charging overnight in hot rooms.
- Don’t stack devices (like Apple Watch or iPad) on top of your iPhone while charging.
- Keep apps updated — outdated apps can cause background CPU spikes.
🧠 Summary
| Cause | Normal? | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fast charging heat | ✅ | Let it cool naturally |
| Using phone while charging | ⚠️ | Avoid multitasking |
| Hot environment | ⚠️ | Move to cooler area |
| Faulty charger | ❌ | Replace with MFi-certified |
| Software bug | ⚠️ | Update iOS |
| Persistent overheating | ❌ | Contact Apple Support |
Bottom line:
A warm iPhone during charging is normal, but excessive heat isn’t.
Follow these steps to keep your device safe, efficient, and long-lasting.
Key Takeaways
- Heat during charging is often caused by use while plugged in or faulty chargers
- Remove phone cases and avoid direct sunlight when charging to reduce overheating
- Persistent overheating may signal hardware issues needing professional repair
Understanding iPhone Overheating Issues
iPhones can get hot when charging due to various factors. This heat can affect the device’s performance and longevity if not addressed.
Causes of Overheating During Charging
High ambient temperatures are a common cause of iPhone overheating. Direct sunlight or hot cars can make your phone too warm. Using power-hungry apps while charging also heats up the device. Faulty chargers or cables may cause excess heat. Software bugs can sometimes lead to overheating issues. Background processes running during charging can strain the system. Dust or debris in the charging port might block proper heat dissipation.
To prevent overheating, avoid charging in hot places. Use official Apple chargers and cables. Close unused apps before plugging in. Keep your iPhone’s software up to date. Clean the charging port gently with a soft brush. If heat persists, try restarting your phone.
Impact on iPhone Health and Safety
Frequent overheating can harm your iPhone’s battery life. Heat speeds up chemical reactions inside the battery. This leads to faster aging and reduced capacity. Extreme heat may cause permanent damage to internal parts. The phone might shut down to protect itself from heat damage.
Apple builds in safety features to prevent overheating risks. Your iPhone will show a warning if it gets too hot. It may limit charging or turn off until it cools down. These measures help protect the battery and other components. If overheating happens often, it’s best to have your iPhone checked by a pro. They can spot any underlying issues that need fixing.
Frequently Asked Questions
iPhone overheating during charging is a common issue. Users can take steps to prevent it and understand when to be concerned.
What steps can I take to prevent my iPhone from overheating while being charged?
Remove the case before charging. This lets heat escape more easily. Charge your iPhone in a cool spot away from direct sunlight. Close unused apps and turn off background app refresh. These actions reduce the workload on your device while charging.
Is it normal for my iPhone to become hot during the charging process?
Some warmth is normal when charging an iPhone. The device works hard to replenish the battery. This generates heat as a byproduct. However if your iPhone feels uncomfortably hot to touch it may indicate a problem.
Could there be a fault with my charger or phone if my iPhone is overheating when charging?
A faulty charger or damaged battery can cause overheating. Use only Apple-certified chargers and cables. If the problem persists with official accessories have your iPhone checked by an Apple technician. They can test the battery and other components for issues.
At what point should I be concerned about the temperature of my iPhone during charging?
Be concerned if your iPhone feels too hot to hold comfortably. Watch for warning messages about temperature. If your iPhone shuts down due to heat stop using it and let it cool down. Persistent overheating needs professional attention.
Are there specific settings or environmental conditions that reduce the risk of my iPhone overheating while charging?
Charge in a room between 62°F to 72°F (16°C to 22°C). Turn on Low Power Mode to reduce energy use. Avoid wireless charging if your phone tends to overheat. These conditions help keep your iPhone cool while charging.
What should I do if my iPhone displays an overheating warning during charging?
Unplug your iPhone right away. Move it to a cooler spot. Remove any case. Let it cool down before using or charging again. If this happens often contact Apple Support. They can help identify and fix the underlying cause.
