My Phone is Hot, What Should I Do?

Ever picked up your phone and noticed it felt unusually warm? You're not the only one. A lot of people experience this, and it can be a bit worrying.

While it's normal for phones to get a little warm during use, too much heat can signal a problem.

In this guide, we'll dive into why your phone might be heating up and what you can do about it.

As phone experts at ClicknCell, we're here to help you understand and find some solutions.

But first, let's get the mini answer before we start getting into the real heat!

First, close unused apps and reduce screen brightness. Remove the case, let your phone cool, and avoid direct sunlight. Disable background processes, check for software updates, and restart your device. If the issue persists, consider professional help or battery replacement.

Ok so now we’ve got the short answer underway, let's start by finding out why your iPhone , Samsung , or any other phone might be feeling a bit too hot to handle!

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Why Does My Phone Get Hot?

Your phone can get hot for several reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Overuse:

    Playing games, streaming videos, or running multiple apps can cause your phone to overheat. These activities demand a lot of processing power, which generates heat.

  • Environmental Factors:

    Using your phone in direct sunlight or a hot environment can cause it to heat up quickly. Phones are designed to operate within a certain temperature range, and exceeding this can lead to overheating.

  • Battery Issues:

    Batteries naturally generate heat, but if your phone's battery is faulty or old, it might produce excessive heat.

  • Software Glitches:

    Sometimes, a software update or a bug in an app can cause your phone's processor to work harder than it should, leading to overheating.

  • Charging Problems:

    Using a low-quality charger or charging your phone for too long can cause it to overheat. Fast chargers, in particular, can generate more heat than regular chargers.

  • Hardware Issues:

    Problems with internal components like the processor or RAM can also cause your phone to heat up.

So what are some of the worst offenders for heating up quicker than a super quick thing?

Let's find out.

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Hotter Than July Mobile Phones

First up, the infamous Samsung Galaxy Note 7 . Remember this one? It was hot—literally.

Then there’s the LG G3. A phone that thought it was a toaster. Users reported that after a few minutes of intense gaming or video streaming, it transformed into a hand warmer.

Next, the iPhone 6s, Apple's little oven. Known for its sleek design and premium feel, it also had a knack for heating up during the simplest of tasks.

Browsing Instagram? Congratulations, you’ve just turned your phone into a mini stove.

So while these phones might have once been the stars of tech, they ultimately fizzled out—literally and figuratively—thanks to their unfortunate overheating issues.

Ok, so how do you know your phone is overheating, other than it feels like a hot potato?

Signs Your Phone is Overheating

Here are some common signs:

  • Performance slows down significantly.

  • The battery drains faster than usual.

  • The screen dims automatically.

  • Apps crash or fail to load.

  • You receive an overheating warning.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.

Immediate Steps to Cool Down Your Phone

So before you decide to give up and sell your phone you could try our best tips.

  • Turn it Off:

    If your phone is too hot, the quickest way to cool it down is to turn it off. This stops all processes and gives your phone a break.

  • Remove the Case:

    Phone cases can trap heat. Removing the case allows your phone to cool down more quickly.

  • Find a Cool Place:

    Move your phone to a cooler environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid placing it in the refrigerator or freezer, as rapid temperature changes can damage the device.

  • Stop Charging:

    If your phone is overheating while charging, unplug it immediately. Use a high-quality charger and avoid using the phone while it’s charging.

  • Close Unnecessary Apps:

    Shut down apps running in the background. This reduces the workload on your processor and can help cool your phone.

  • Activate Airplane Mode:

    Turning on airplane mode disables wireless connections, reducing the amount of work your phone has to do.

Long-Term Solutions to Prevent Overheating

While jumping straight on it is the best course of action, by putting in place some long-term solutions you stand a good chance of preventing your phone from overheating in the future.

  • Update Software Regularly:

    Keeping your phone’s software up to date can fix bugs and improve efficiency. Check for updates regularly and install them promptly.

  • Manage Apps Wisely:

    Some apps are resource-intensive. Monitor app usage and uninstall or disable apps you don’t use. Use light versions of apps when available.

  • Optimize Settings:

    Lower your screen brightness, reduce the screen timeout duration, and turn off unnecessary features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS when not in use.

  • Use Quality Accessories:

    Always use the charger and cable that came with your phone or high-quality replacements. Avoid third-party accessories that may not meet safety standards.

  • Avoid Overcharging:

    Don’t leave your phone plugged in for extended periods, especially overnight. Once your phone is fully charged, unplug it to prevent overheating and battery degradation.

  • Battery Maintenance:

    If your phone’s battery is old or faulty, consider replacing it. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time, and a new battery can improve performance and reduce heat generation. Read more in our other useful guide Battery Health 101: Simple Steps to Preserve Your Phone Lifespan

  • Proper Storage:

    Keep your phone in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving it in hot environments like a car on a sunny day.

When to Get Some Pro Help

If your phone continues to overheat despite your efforts, it might be time to seek out the phone pros.

Here are some scenarios where professional assistance might be helpful.

  • Persistent Overheating:

    If your phone overheats frequently, there might be an underlying hardware or software issue that needs professional attention.

  • Battery Swelling:

    If your battery is swollen, it’s a serious issue that requires immediate replacement..

  • Physical Damage:

    If your phone has been dropped or exposed to water, internal components might be damaged, causing overheating.

  • Unresponsive Phone:

    If your phone doesn’t respond to cooling measures and continues to overheat, professional diagnostics are essential.

The Impact of Overheating on Your Phone

If your phone regularly feels like you must be on a beach in the Bahamas, then it can have several negative effects on your phone, including:

  • Reduced Performance:

    Overheating can slow down your phone’s processor, causing lag and unresponsiveness.

  • Battery Damage:

    Excessive heat can degrade your battery’s capacity over time, leading to shorter battery life and the need for more frequent charging.

  • Component Wear:

    Heat can accelerate wear and tear on internal components, potentially leading to hardware failures.

  • Data Loss:

    In extreme cases, overheating can cause data corruption or loss. Regular backups are essential to protect your information.

My Phone is Hot, What Should I Do? - Final Thoughts

Smartphone overheating is a pretty common issue, but it doesn't have to be a big deal. If you know what's causing it and take some quick and long-term steps, you can keep your phone cool and running smoothly.

Looking after your phone and fixing overheating problems can help it last longer and give you a better experience overall.

Since your phone is such a crucial part of your daily life, keeping it in great shape is worth the effort!

But if you think that your mobile could do with an upgrade and decide to trade in your old device then head over to our stores and start selling today!

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