Smartphone are like mini computers that we carry in our pockets every day. They provide numerous conveniences, but they also heat up due to various factors such as overuse, exposure to high temperatures, or running heavy applications. So, how can you cool your phone if it’s overheating? Read on to find the answers.
Why Do Smartphones Overheat?
Before we can properly address the solutions, it’s important to understand why smartphones can overheat. The two main culprits are processor-intensive tasks and external environment. Your smartphone generates heat when performing tasks like playing graphically demanding games, streaming HD videos, or during long phone calls. On the other hand, exposure to high environmental temperatures, such as direct sunlight or a hot car, can also cause your device to overheat.
Detecting Overheating: Signs and Symptoms
Early detection is crucial when it comes to overheating prevention. Some common signs include:
- Performance issues: Overheating can cause your phone to slow down, freeze, or even shut down.
- Battery drainage: An unusually quick battery drain is often a telltale sign.
- Physical heat: If your phone feels hot to the touch, it’s likely overheating.
Effective Measures to Cool Your Overheating Phone
Now that we’ve covered the causes and symptoms, let’s explore the various ways to cool down your smartphone.
Terminate Resource-Heavy Apps
Limiting the number of apps running in the background can reduce the workload on your phone’s processor and subsequently reduce overheating. Close all unnecessary applications and avoid using multiple demanding apps simultaneously.
Lower Screen Brightness
A bright screen can generate a significant amount of heat. Try lowering your brightness or enabling auto-brightness to keep your phone’s temperature in check.
Turn Off Unnecessary Functions
Many phones have features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and mobile data that can contribute to overheating when enabled. If these features aren’t currently needed, switch them off to lower the device’s temperature.
Remove Phone Case
If your phone is overheating, your case might be part of the problem. Some cases can insulate heat, causing your phone to become hotter. Removing it can help disperse the heat more effectively.
Avoid playing video games
The desire to complete the next level of Candy Crush can be difficult to resist, but doing so will cause your phone to overheat much faster in the stifling heat. Avoid running demanding apps and games when you’re outside. Even if it is absolutely necessary, keep the period of use to a minimum. Games frequently overwork the processor, resulting in excessive heat generation.
Reset or Restart Your Phone
Restarting your device can shut down unnecessary background processes, thereby reducing the temperature of your phone.
Preventing Future Overheating
Maintaining your smartphone to prevent overheating can extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Regular Updates
Keep your phone’s software and apps updated. Regular updates often include performance enhancements and bug fixes that can help keep your device running smoothly and avoid overheating.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Never leave your phone exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Such conditions can push your phone’s temperature past safe levels.
Monitor Your Phone’s Temperature
Regularly check your phone’s temperature, particularly when using demanding applications or in a hot environment.
Overheating doesn’t have to be a recurring issue for your smartphone. By understanding the causes and implementing these simple solutions, you can protect your device from overheating and ensure it continues to perform at its best.
FAQ’s About Phone Overheating
What is the normal operating temperature for a phone? The normal operating temperature for a phone is around 20-30°C (68-86°F). If it exceeds this range, it’s likely overheating.
Can an overheating phone explode? While rare, severe overheating can cause a phone’s battery to swell or even explode. It’s important to handle an overheating phone with caution.
Does phone overheating affect battery life? Yes, consistent overheating can reduce the battery’s life and overall performance.
Why is my phone getting hot so fast? Your phone might be getting hot fast due to various reasons such as intensive app usage, prolonged exposure to heat, or even a faulty battery.
Is it normal for a phone to heat up while charging? A slight increase in temperature while charging is normal. However, if your phone becomes excessively hot, it could be a sign of a problem.
Can phone overheating cause data loss? In severe cases, phone overheating can cause data loss due to damage to the device’s internal components.