6 tips to stop your phone from overheating

Summer is here, and while we're excited about sunny days and outdoor adventures, our phones might not share the sentiment. With scorching summer temperatures, your phone can quickly turn into a mini heater; and overheating can slow down your device, drain your battery, or even cause permanent damage. That’s why AT&T ProTech experts put together this list of tips to help keep your phone cool and functional this summer season.

1. Keep things shady

Direct sunlight can cause your phone to heat up quickly, especially during the summer. Shield it from the sun's harsh rays by keeping it in the shade or inside a bag when you’re outdoors. Try to avoid leaving it on a car dashboard or any other spot where it can be exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods.

2. Take breaks from intensive activities

We all love binge-watching our favorite shows or engaging in epic mobile-gaming sessions. But these kinds of activities can generate a lot of heat because of the energy they require the system to expend. Try to limit these activities, especially if you’re outside on a hot day. Take breaks between sessions to let your phone cool down. Pro tip: you can use this time to hydrate yourself, too.

3. Optimize your settings

Your phone's settings can play a significant role in its temperature regulation. Lower the screen brightness and disable features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS when not in use. These simple adjustments can go a long way in preventing overheating. You should also keep apps that you're not using closed. Check your phone's settings to see which apps are running in the background, and disable ones you don’t need.

4. Give your phone some breathing room

Proper ventilation is crucial to dissipate heat properly. Avoid covering your phone with blankets, leaving it under your pillow, or placing it in any tight spaces where airflow is restricted. The wrong phone case can restrict airflow as well, trapping heat and making it harder for your phone to cool down. If your phone starts to feel warm, remove the case to allow better air circulation. Pick phone cases made from materials like thermoplastic polyurethane, polycarbonate, aluminum, or carbon fiber. These dissipate heat effectively.

5. Keep software updated

Software updates aren't just about adding new features; they also include essential bug fixes and optimizations that can improve your phone's performance and temperature regulation. Keep your phone up to date to ensure it's running as efficiently as possible. To ensure you always have the latest improvements, you can also enable automatic updates.

6. Avoid overcharging

Leaving your phone plugged in overnight may seem convenient, but it can lead to overcharging, which generates excess heat. Opt for shorter charging sessions, and unplug your phone once it's fully charged to prevent unnecessary heating. Remember to charge your phone in a cool, well-ventilated area, and avoid soft furnishings that can trap heat or block airflow.

Summer is all about fun in the sun, not worrying about your phone overheating. With these friendly tips, you can keep your phone cool, functional, and ready for all your summer escapades. So go ahead: soak up the sun, and let your phone enjoy a little R&R in the shade.

With these friendly tips, you can keep your phone cool, functional, and ready for all your summer escapades. So go ahead: enjoy some fun in the sun, without worrying about your phone overheating. Soak up a few rays, and let your phone have a little R&R in the shade.

And if you’re having other issues with your phone, don’t sweat it. AT&T Protect Advantage customers can chat with a ProTech expert any time. We’re here to help!