Phone camera says it's overheating or needs to cool down

Symptoms

• Message says camera is unavailable due to temperature or needs to cool down
• Phone feels warm or hot to the touch
• Happens more after extended video recording or in direct sun
• Camera works again once the phone cools

Likely causes

• CommonExtended video recording generating heatRecording, especially at high resolution, is one of the most heat-intensive tasks a phone performs.
• CommonDirect sunlight or a hot car raising the phone's internal temperatureExternal heat adds to the heat generated internally, triggering protective limits sooner.
• CommonCharging while using the camera heavilyCharging generates its own heat, which compounds with camera use.
• PossibleA case trapping heatThick cases can reduce airflow and slow cooling.

What to do

1. Stop using the camera and let the phone rest in a cool, shaded area.
2. Remove the case temporarily to help the phone cool faster.
3. Unplug the phone if it's charging.
4. Avoid using the phone at all for a few minutes to speed cooling.
5. Once cooled, resume camera use in shorter sessions or in a cooler environment.
6. Avoid leaving the phone in direct sun or a hot car in the future.

When to call a pro

See a repair shop if the phone overheats and shows this warning during normal, brief camera use with no direct sun or charging involved.

Safety