How to keep your phone from overheating this summer 

Summer is here, and while we love the sunshine and warm weather, our smartphones don't always fare so well. Overheating can cause your phone to slow down, drain its battery faster, and in some cases, even damage its internal components. Whether you're spending your days at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or just enjoying a backyard BBQ, keeping your phone cool is essential. Here are some tips from Tech Coach experts at Verizon for keeping your phone from getting too hot, and a few ways to cool it down quickly if it’s already overheating. 

7 ways to keep your phone from getting too hot

1. Avoid direct sunlight 

One of the simplest ways to keep your phone cool is to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. Leaving your phone out in the sun can cause it to heat up quickly, especially if it's in a case that retains heat. Try to keep your phone in the shade, and if you’re outdoors, use a bag or cover to protect it from the sun's rays. 


2. Turn off unnecessary features 

Background apps, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS can all contribute to your phone heating up. Turn off any features you're not using to reduce the strain on your phone’s processor and battery. You can usually toggle these settings in your phone's control panel or settings menu. 

3. Reduce screen brightness 

A bright screen is a major battery drainer and can also generate heat. Lowering your screen brightness can help keep your phone cooler. Consider using adaptive brightness settings, which automatically adjust the screen brightness based on the ambient light. 

4. Use Airplane mode 

If you're in an area with poor reception, your phone will work harder to find a signal, which can cause it to heat up. Switching to airplane mode can give your phone a break and prevent it from overheating. This is especially useful if you don’t need to be connected to the internet or make calls. 

5. Remove the case 

Phone cases can trap heat, making it harder for your phone to stay cool. If you notice your phone getting warm, try removing the case. This allows the heat to dissipate more effectively and can help your phone cool down faster. 

6. Keep your apps updated 

App updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes that can help your phone run more efficiently. Keeping your apps up to date ensures that they are optimized and can prevent unnecessary strain on your phone's processor.  

7 tips to cool an overheated phone fast 

1. Turn your phone off 

If your phone starts to overheat, your best course of action is to turn it off. This stops all processes and allows the phone to cool down. Leave it off for a few minutes before turning it back on. 

2. Remove the case 

As mentioned earlier, cases can trap heat. If your phone is overheating, removing the case can allow the heat to escape more easily. 

3. Move to a cooler environment 

Try to get your phone into a cooler environment as quickly as you can. Find a shady spot, an air-conditioned room, or any other place with a low temperature and away from direct light to help cool your phone down. 

4. Remove the battery (if possible) 

Some older phone models have removable batteries. If your phone is one of these, consider removing the battery to help it cool down faster. Just make sure you turn off the phone before doing so. 

5. Use a fan or air conditioner 

Placing your phone in front of a fan or an air conditioner can help lower its temperature quickly. The moving air helps dissipate the heat, providing a quick cooling effect. 

6. Avoid sudden temperature changes 

Avoid placing your phone in the refrigerator or freezer to cool it down. Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation inside your phone, potentially damaging its internal components. Instead, let it cool down gradually at room temperature. 

7. Close background apps 

Running multiple apps simultaneously can cause your phone to overheat. Close all background apps to reduce the workload on your phone’s processor. This can help it cool down faster. 

Keeping your phone cool during the summer is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following these preventive measures and knowing how to cool down an overheated phone, you can ensure that your device stays in top shape throughout the warm months.    

Remember, prevention is key, so take proactive steps to protect your phone from the summer heat. Stay cool, and enjoy the sunny days ahead! And if you ever need a little extra help with devices, remember: Verizon experts are here to help. Call or chat today.