Rising Temperatures, Rising Risks

With summer heatwaves intensifying across many regions, smartphones are at greater risk of overheating. Excessive heat not only reduces performance but can also damage the battery, slow down processing speed, and in severe cases, cause permanent hardware failure.

Avoid Direct Sunlight Exposure

One of the easiest ways to protect your phone is to keep it out of direct sunlight. Leaving a phone on a car dashboard, outdoor table, or windowsill can quickly raise its internal temperature beyond safe levels. Use shade, pockets, or bags to minimize direct exposure.

Limit Heavy Usage in Hot Conditions

Running games, GPS navigation, or video streaming for extended periods in hot weather can push a phone’s processor to the limit. This generates heat internally, adding to the external heat from the environment. Pausing intensive apps or using battery-saver mode can help reduce strain.

Remove Phone Cases During High Heat

While cases protect against drops, they can trap heat. In extreme conditions, temporarily removing the case while charging or using the phone can improve airflow and cooling.

Avoid Charging in Hot Environments

Charging naturally generates heat, and doing so in already high temperatures can accelerate overheating. Charge your device in a cool, shaded place, and avoid using it heavily while plugged in.

Use Airplane Mode or Power Saving Features

Switching to airplane mode reduces processor workload and prevents apps from running in the background. In high-heat situations, this can significantly lower internal heat build-up.

What to Do If Your Phone Overheats

If your phone feels uncomfortably hot, power it off and place it in a cool, dry area — but never in a freezer or fridge, as sudden temperature changes can cause condensation and damage internal components.