Google warns strange camera error is sign your phone is dangerously hot – list of five subtle clues you’re in trouble
GOOGLE has revealed the signs that your phone is getting so hot it can’t function properly.
Heat is a serious problem for smartphones for many reasons – so avoiding it is essential.
For a start, heat can mean that your smartphone physically can’t perform effectively.
And heat can also damage the lithium-ion battery inside your smartphone, permanently shortening battery life.
Not only that, but if your phone gets too hot then it could physically hurt you – or even pose a fire risk.
There are some ways to avoid letting your Android phone get too hot, and clues that the temperature is getting too high, Google says.
“To help prevent your phone getting too hot, keep it out of direct sunlight,” Google explained.
“If your phone’s temperature continues to rise, it could show a warning and turn off.
“The phone turns off to keep you and your phone safe. If your phone turns off, let it cool down and restart it.”
SIGNS YOUR PHONE IS OVERHEATING
One key sign is that your phone’s camera flash stops working.
And a second sign is when your camera itself no longer functions in a bid to keep your phone cool.
Thirdly, look for signs that your phone is slowing down – this is a key indicator that it’s getting too hot.
Fourthly, your phone might also begin to charge more slowly.
And finally, you might notice that your mobile data or Wi-Fi are partially or totally turned off.
This might specifically target 5G mobile data, but all network connections might be shut down if it’s very hot.
WHAT CAUSES SMARTPHONE OVERHEATING?
If your phone is getting too hot, Google said there are some steps you can take.
First, you’ll want to shut off power-intensive features, as Google warns “your phone may overheat” when you’re using them.
Examples include:
- Placing video calls
- Recording with the camera app
- Playing media – especially over 5G
- Using navigation apps for extended periods of time
- Using features or apps while charging your phone
PHONES GET WARM!
Google says it's OK if your phone gets a little warm – that may happen when you do any of the following...
- Play videos, games, or other media.
- Transfer or restore backed-up data on your phone.
- Record high definition videos.
- Connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Tether your phone or use it as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Download or upload a lot of data over a mobile data or Wi-Fi connection.
- Set up your phone.
- Restore your phone from backup.
- Do any of the above while your phone charges.
But be careful if it gets hot – you’ll want to stop using heavy apps or features if that’s the case.
Google also notes: “Keep your phone away from excessive heat, like inside a hot vehicle or outside in direct sunlight.
“Don’t keep your phone in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.”
To limit overheating, try reducing your phone’s display brightness, and use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data.
Google adds: “If your phone is too hot, disconnect it from its power source if it’s plugged in, move it to a cooler place, and do not use it until it has cooled down.”