August 14, 2026, 3:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
When temperatures rise to 30 degrees Celsius or more, even smartphones reach their limits. In the car, on the beach, or while navigating in the sun, devices can become so hot that they restrict functions or display warning messages. For such situations, a supposedly simple trick is currently spreading on TikTok. Users recommend placing an overheated smartphone briefly in the refrigerator or even the freezer. While the quick cooling sounds practical, experts warn of potential damage.
Not only high temperatures can affect a smartphone. Very rapid cooling can also become problematic. If a warm smartphone is placed in the refrigerator and later removed, moisture can form. Initially, the warm air inside cools down. When the cold smartphone later comes into contact with warm ambient air, additional condensation can form.
Condensation Can Damage Components
How quickly moisture forms is evident with cold bottles that fog up in warm air within a short time. Inside a smartphone, however, condensation can have much more serious consequences. It can cause short circuits or permanently damage components through corrosion.
Even waterproof devices are not automatically protected from this. The sealing does not help against moisture that forms inside the device. Additionally, the sudden temperature change stresses other components. In the worst case, the temperature shock damages the screen or the sealing loses its protective function.
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Numerous Damage Cases Already Known
According to a report by the “BBC,” the effects of this cooling trick are already evident in central repair centers in the United Kingdom. Local repair shops are now delivering numerous smartphones and tablets with moisture damage after users cooled the devices in the refrigerator or freezer.
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The report also mentions a particularly severe incident. During a heatwave, an iPad delivered to a business exploded. The device’s battery had previously swollen.
How to Cool the Smartphone Safely
If the smartphone gets too hot, it should first be removed from direct sunlight. Additionally, manufacturers like Apple and Google recommend temporarily not using the device and closing open apps.
Furthermore, the smartphone should be disconnected from the charging cable. It can then cool down slowly in a shady and well-ventilated place. It is advisable to remove the protective case to allow heat to escape more easily. Users should avoid quick cooling in the refrigerator or freezer.