If your cell phone gets hot, there can be various causes. The software, hardware, and external factors can all influence the temperature.
Cell phone gets hot: First aid
If you notice that your cell phone is getting unusually hot, this can not only be unpleasant, but also indicate technical problems. The latter can affect the long-term life of the device. If your cell phone suddenly gets hot, you should first check the following:
- Remove the device from the heat: Make sure that the mobile phone is not in direct sunlight, in a closed car, or near radiators.
- Avoid high humidity: This can impair heat dissipation and cause additional damage due to condensation.
- Switch off the device: If the mobile phone feels very hot, switch it off and leave it to cool down in a cool, dry place.
- Do not place in the refrigerator! The extreme temperature difference can cause condensation to form inside, which can lead to short circuits or permanent damage.
- Store loosely: Place the device in the shade or in a breathable bag so that it can cool down better.
Possible causes of an overheated cell phone: Apps and software problems
If your cell phone regularly becomes hot, it is possible that certain apps or other software functions on your smartphone are responsible.
- If an app is running in the background for a long time or you have a lot of apps open at the same time, this can cause your phone to overheat.
- Close all apps (Android, iOS). Remember to close apps regularly when you are not using them.
- Games with complex graphics or AR applications place a high load on the system. Use such apps sparingly, especially on older devices.
- Uninstall all apps and files (Android, iOS) that you no longer need. A full memory can slow down the system and increase the temperature.
- When you are on the move, your mobile phone often searches in vain for a Wi-Fi network. This function can also lead to overheating. So turn off Wi-Fi (Android, iOS) when your phone is not connected to a Wi-Fi network and is getting hot.
- Outdated software can cause performance issues. Therefore, perform regular updates (Android, iOS) to fix performance and security issues.
- If your phone regularly becomes hot for no apparent reason, reset it (Android , iOS).
Check the battery and charging cable if your phone gets hot
The battery in particular can be problematic if the phone gets too hot while charging or when the battery is low.
- Old or damaged battery: These can work inefficiently and generate more heat. If you notice excessive heat, have the battery checked or replace it.
- Avoid deep discharge: Regularly discharging the battery completely damages it and can cause it to heat up. Charge your mobile phone before the battery level falls below 15%.
- Charging: Slight warming during charging is normal, but if the device becomes noticeably hot, try a different charging cable or charger. Use certified original accessories whenever possible and avoid intensive use of the mobile phone during charging.
Simple solutions at a glance
If your Android phone or iPhone gets hot, this is not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if the problem occurs frequently or a heat wave is imminent, we recommend the following tips:
- Remove the device from the sun and place it in the shade.
- Delete unnecessary apps and close functions.
- Disable network search (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data) when not in use.
- Keep software up to date.
- Clear memory regularly.
- If problems persist: Reset factory settings (after backing up data).
- If the device becomes hot during charging: Have the charging cable and battery checked.
