10 reasons why iPhone gets very hot when using or charging it

Every iPhone owner has likely experienced the issue of their device getting excessively hot, whether it is during use or while at rest. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including both natural circumstances and potential malfunctions. It is important to understand when this heating is normal and when it may be necessary to seek professional assistance or attempt a DIY solution.

To address this issue, we have compiled a comprehensive guide that covers all iPhone models, including: 4, 4s, 5, 5c, 5s, 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X, XS, XS Max, XR, SE 2, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max. This guide follows a step-by-step approach, starting with simple solutions and gradually progressing to more complex ones.

Main Causes

To address the various causes of iPhone overheating, start by identifying which specific component heats up the most:

1. The area around the cameras on the back cover. This occurs when using the flashlight or recording videos.
2. The upper right corner of the back cover. This is where the processor and video processing chip are located.
3. Underneath the "Home" button at the bottom – applicable to older models. There may be an issue with the charging port. The iPhone may have entered emergency mode after being exposed to water, causing the haptic feedback mechanism to fail.

The manufacturer recommends an optimal temperature range of 0 to +40°C.

This temperature requirement should also be followed for Android devices. However, we have a separate article specifically addressing them.

High load on the processor

One of the most common causes of high temperatures in the processor and video subsystem area is:

1. Engaging in intense gaming. When the user plays demanding games such as "Tanks" with maximum graphics settings or "PUBG," the iPhone’s outdated hardware may struggle to handle the latest game editions. Both the graphics accelerator and central processor generate a significant amount of heat, causing the device to quickly heat up and slow down.
2. Streaming movies, TV series, YouTube, or other video content in HD/uHD/4K modes. This puts a heavy load on the video chip, leading to increased temperature in the iPhone.

At times, an iPhone may become warm when running antivirus software or other CPU-intensive programs.

Incomplete applications

The iOs ecosystem is widely recognized for its strong emphasis on security and the stability of its applications. However, it is important to note that there are still some unfinished or incomplete programs available on the AppStore, which are typically labeled as beta or alpha versions. These utilities may not yet be fully optimized and can place a heavy load on memory, CPU usage, and battery life, resulting in increased heat generation and temperature spikes.

Another category of applications that can contribute to device heating are hacked software.

These are programs that are installed after a jailbreak has been performed. These pirated utilities, often obtained from unauthorized sources like Cidya, tend to be unstable and can cause devices to overheat.

When talking

Engaging in any conversation puts a continuous strain on the communication module and nearly all components of a cell phone. This issue is familiar to anyone who has ever engaged in a phone conversation lasting longer than 15 minutes. The problem can be exacerbated if the user is in an area with poor signal quality. In such situations, the phone will continually search for a network, causing the iPhone to heat up and rapidly drain its battery.

The same principle applies to messaging apps and other communication applications. For instance, when making a video call on Skype, not only does the primary radio sensor work hard, but the video chip and central processor are also heavily utilized.

When operating in access point mode (as a means of distributing internet), the smartphone serves the purpose of both a phone and a mobile Wi-Fi router. This places a double burden on the device, as it simultaneously utilizes the main radio sensor (3G/4G/LTE) as well as the Wi-Fi chip. The heat generated is particularly noticeable during prolonged periods of downloading or distributing traffic to other devices. After approximately 30-40 minutes, the phone becomes uncomfortably warm, reaching temperatures of 40-45 degrees.

To prevent damage to the battery, the iPhone’s protective system automatically shuts off the device when it reaches 45 degrees. This indicates that the device has overheated and will not power back on until it has sufficiently cooled down to 20-25 degrees.

With navigation turned on

The scenario is reminiscent of the previous issue. When the user initiates the GPS transmitter, the chip commences operation in a continuous mode alongside the primary radio sensor. In the event that the phone is being utilized as a navigator, such as for displaying maps on the screen, the rise in temperature becomes apparent at a rapid pace. At this juncture, the GPS, video chip (responsible for displaying the map), and CPU (performing path calculations) all experience significant strain. Consequently, it comes as no surprise that the battery diminishes rapidly.

Battery problem

There are three factors that can be considered in this case:

1. Physical damage to the battery. Recognizable indications include overheating and rebooting. Malfunctions, strong impact (dropped on a concrete floor), and bending of the case – all of these can lead to battery integrity issues. Furthermore, the entry of moisture into the case will also result in negative consequences.
2. Depletion of resources. The smartphone battery has simply reached the end of its lifespan. Typically, it lasts for about 1000 full charge and discharge cycles, which is equivalent to 3-4 years. The initial signs that the battery is deteriorating include being able to charge to 100% within 20-30 minutes. Once the charging cable is disconnected, the phone quickly loses its charge.
3. This is not the original charger. It’s a problem that affects both wireless and wired chargers. However, it’s important to note that if the charger unit (power adapter) gets heated up to 40 degrees, it’s not a cause for concern. In fact, it’s perfectly normal.

Viruses, adware Trojans

The iOs system offers a high level of security when the user has the official firmware version. However, if a person decides to jailbreak their device, it not only voids the warranty but also exposes them to a wide range of viruses and other malicious software.

When browsing the internet, adware Trojans can easily infect a smartphone. Additionally, there are Trojans that silently install themselves on the device. These malicious programs operate in the background, secretly mining cryptocurrency on the user’s device. Detecting such applications can be challenging, but one telltale sign is an increase in CPU temperature in the upper right corner of the device’s case.

Errors in iOs and when Jailbreak is installed

The Jailbreak procedure bears some resemblance to the process of rooting an Android device. Upon applying these "customizations," an iPhone may begin to experience glitches and freezing. This can impede the device’s performance and cause it to heat up.

Occasionally, the excessive heating of a device can be attributed to the improper functioning of the operating system. Bugs within iOS can strain specific components of the OS, leading to freezing and glitches. In some cases, temperature spikes may also appear. Typically, these bugs are swiftly addressed through OS updates.

This category includes all issues related to breakdowns or malfunctions on the hardware part of the device:

1. Mechanical damage caused by falls or strong impacts, such as bending the case in a jeans pocket.
2. Moisture getting on the internal components of the iPhone. A common symptom is hanging and sudden shutdowns.
3. Presence of a factory defect in any component. A common symptom is spontaneous reboots.
4. Malfunctions in the power controller or battery.
5. Accumulated dust in the device casing, leading to thermal issues.

Case and other external factors

There are several other factors that can contribute to temperature changes:

1. Dense casings can affect the dissipation of heat. These can include regular silicone bumpers, as well as thicker leather or fur products.
2. The smartphone may be constantly placed near another heat source, such as a working laptop on a table, or inside a bag with an active power bank.
3. Exposure to direct sunlight. If the device is frequently located near a window, for example.
4. Carrying the device in tight clothing, such as the back pocket of warm pants. In this case, the fabric acts as a dense casing and prevents heat from dissipating into the surroundings.

Another issue that can arise is the unintended activation of the camera when a cell phone is stored in the inner pockets of clothing. This can put a significant strain on the system and prevent proper heat dissipation due to the pocket itself.

Recommendations

Take into account some suggestions that will assist in prolonging the lifespan of the device and preventing the iPhone from overheating

Give your tech a rest

Remember to take a break of 5 minutes if you spend more than 30 minutes using your iPhone. This will prevent your device from getting too hot and will also help protect your eyesight. This tip is especially important if you’re watching long movies or TV shows, or if you’re playing games for an extended period of time.

Update firmware and programs regularly

iOs developers are continually optimizing the operating system to cater to various requirements. They carry out modifications, address bugs, and enhance all components. This has the effect of reducing the strain on the CPU, video chip, memory, and battery. It is also imperative to regularly update applications to ensure optimal system performance. In the event that the iPhone begins to heat up and experiences battery drain after an update, it is advisable to await the release of a new iOs version, as software glitches are typically resolved within a week or two.

If you find yourself in a situation where your phone signal is weak and you’re experiencing difficulty making calls or communicating via messaging apps, it’s best to avoid engaging in lengthy conversations. Instead, it’s advisable to wait until you have a better signal to ensure clear and uninterrupted communication.

In cases where the signal level is particularly low and waiting is not a viable option, it may be worth considering relocating to a different area with better network coverage. Ideally, you should aim for a location where the network coverage is at least 70% of its maximum capacity.

If you’re in a building, going to upper floors can sometimes improve the signal strength. Additionally, moving to a less crowded space can also help reduce signal interference and improve overall connectivity.

Charge your battery properly

To ensure the longevity of your battery, follow these two suggestions:

1. When your battery level reaches 20%, connect your iPhone to a charger. Disconnect it when the battery reaches 80%, as it is recommended by phone manufacturers. Avoid waiting for a complete discharge or charging the phone to full capacity.
2. Use original chargers and cables. Alternatively, purchase reliable alternatives.

If you notice that the back cover of your smartphone is becoming worn out or the screen has slightly separated from the case, it is advisable to take the battery to a service center immediately. A battery in this condition is in its final stages of life, which can be detrimental to the device’s electronic components.

Unload rarely used programs from the memory

Unload unnecessary applications from memory once every two days by accessing the panel with all active programs and deleting them individually or all at once. Conduct a review of installed programs once every two months and remove any unnecessary software from memory without hesitation.

Exposing electronics to direct sunlight can be detrimental. The screen can suffer from darkened or yellowed spots as a result of prolonged light exposure. In rare instances, the device may even go into emergency mode and shut down completely. During these times, the power button may become unresponsive and a notification will appear, stating "The iPhone needs to cool down before it can be used."

Restore the iPhone as new

If your smartphone continues to overheat despite following the suggestions, an alternative solution is to restore the device to its original state. This can be done by resetting it to factory settings and then restoring it "as new". Prior to doing so, make sure to backup your data on iCloud or an external storage device to avoid any loss of information.

Q&A

Let’s examine some queries and responses a user might come across when the device starts to overheat.

There are two possible outcomes in this scenario:

1. The system will enter emergency mode. The phone will shut down and remain off until the temperature decreases to a safe level.
2. The iPhone may malfunction. This could occur if the phone becomes hot not only due to internal factors, but also from external sources. For instance, if it is placed near another heat-emitting object or exposed to direct sunlight. The extent of the damage will depend on how much the device has heated up.

Nevertheless, the emergency mode will always be activated initially.

Why it can get hot when turned off

There are various potential scenarios:

1. There may be a malfunction with the power controller.
2. If moisture has entered, it could have affected any components on the board, causing them to be submerged in liquid.
3. In an unlikely scenario, the wiretap could be active.

Only technicians from the service center can accurately identify the specific cause.

When heating is normal

It should be noted that the iPhone’s normal working condition is to heat up to 32°C. At times, the temperature may be slightly higher, but this is still considered normal:

1. When using resource-intensive applications or games.
2. While playing high-resolution videos.
3. During fast charging.
4. When distributing Wi-Fi traffic.
5. During OS updates.

These temporary heat-ups should be considered as part of the normal working conditions.

To achieve a faster cooling process, instant temperature reduction is not feasible, but there are several steps you can take:

1. Unload all background processes from your smartphone and disable active radio sensors such as GPS and Wi-Fi.
2. Remove the phone case.
3. Place your phone in a cool location, such as a dark closet.

However, it’s important to avoid placing your phone in the refrigerator as this can damage the device without providing any cooling benefits.

There are various factors that contribute to the heating up of an iPhone:

• An increased CPU load;
• Malfunctioning or incomplete applications;
• Extended periods of active talking, exceeding 15 minutes;
• Enabling the use of a hotspot on the phone;
• Keeping the GPS on for prolonged periods;
• Battery-related issues;
• Possible presence of a virus or trojan in the system;
• Bugs in the system or a jailbreak performed on the device;
• Hardware problems, where the heat is not dissipated properly due to a tight-fitting case or other thermal barrier.