Why is my iPhone 16 Pro Max overheating and lagging with light use?

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Why is my iPhone 16 Pro Max overheating and lagging with light use?

I bought the phone 2 weeks ago and I upgraded from 14 pro max. I transferred the data by using phone data transfer feature. The phone feels like a downgrade, don’t get me wrong but the performance is actually a downgrade from 14 pro max. The micro stutters, and some massive stutters and frame drops while opening control center, scrolling and opening apps. I upgraded to 18.4.1 after first boot up because my 14 pro max was already on that version. As it’s required for transferring phone to phone data.

I even did factory reset and then downloaded the back up from iCloud after using for a week still the phone seems sluggish time to time. I don’t even use camera much and I don’t have a single game or heavy app on my phone. All I use is social media apps. I’m not a heavy user.

I don’t have any hardware issues, phone’s brand new out of the box. Please tell me if it’s iOS issue, will the next 18.5 update gonna fix it?! Is anyone in the same boat with me? I have been using iPhone since iPhone 3gs. So I know how apple devices works and phone gets hot so easily after opening camera apps. Even the new camera button animations aren’t smooth sometimes. The whole animation and performance feels so unpolished and unoptimized. I also started using Apple Intelligence which isn’t quite smart and helpful in the curremt state if I’m being honest with you. I seen a lot of battery drain issues with Apple Intelligence on so I even turned it off and still the performance is same. Please shed some light on the issues. I know how each and every setting works, turned off Always on display, disabled app refresh for bunch of apps already. I don’t even have widgets on my home screen. Don’t get me wrong the phone factor and weight seems a huge upgrade from 14 pro max but I’m more into the performance and daily usage.

I have seen number of people experiencing the same performance issues too.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on May 7, 2025 12:22 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

SravanKrA

Community+ 2025

Level 10

431,148 points

May 26, 2025 8:56 AM in response to hsn_wrch

📱Facing iPhone heating issues? Here's what worked for me on my iPhone 12 Pro:

1️⃣ Backup on iCloud/iTunes

2️⃣ Log out of Apple ID

3️⃣ Erase (Keep eSIM Data)

❌ DO NOT restore from backups! Set up as new iPhone. Wait 2-3 days - no issue! That Indicates...

✅ No hardware/ iOS issue

Now...

📦 Restore data gradually

🔍 Find app/settings causing heat

My experience says this is purely caused by some third-party app that you may have installed.

I am not aware of the ambient temperature in which you are using the iPhone. However --> Keeping iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch within acceptable ...

Store the device where the temperature is between -20º and 45º C (-4º to 113º F). Don’t leave the device in your car, because temperatures in parked cars can exceed this range.

Use iOS devices where the ambient temperature is between 0º and 35º C (32º to 95º F). Low- or high-temperature conditions might cause the device to change its behavior to regulate its temperature. Using an iOS device in very cold conditions outside of its operating range might temporarily shorten battery life and could cause the device to turn off. Battery life will return to normal when you bring the device back to higher ambient temperatures. Using an iOS device in very hot conditions can permanently shorten battery life.

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Answer 2

May 26, 2025 8:57 AM in response to hsn_wrch

There may be several reasons due to which an iPhone may behave as described by you. Some of them could be...

Let's delve a bit deeper into some of them:

Storage: A full iPhone can definitely slow things down. Phones can experience performance issues when the storage is nearly full. Users can check their storage status by going to Settings > General > [Device] Storage. Deleting unnecessary apps, photos, or videos can free up space and improve performance. How to check the storage on your iPhone and iPad - Apple Support.
Battery Health: A degraded battery can impact performance. A deteriorating battery can impact the overall performance of an iPhone. Checking the battery health can be done by going to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If the maximum capacity is significantly reduced, it might be time to replace the battery. Prolong and Maximise Battery Performance … - Apple Community
Incorrect Handling: Accidental drops or bumps can cause internal damage. looking at the Apple's guide on proper handling is a good step. Important handling information for iPhone - Apple Support (IN)
Environmental Issues: Extreme temperatures, dust, and water exposure can all be detrimental.
1. Keeping iPhone clean is an important step. Dust accumulation in the iPhone's ports and openings can affect functionality. Apple provides guidelines on how to clean iPhones safely, which usually involves using a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust without causing damage. Cleaning your iPhone - Apple Support
2. Keep the iPhone within temperature limits. Phones are designed to operate within a specific temperature range. Exposure to extreme temperatures, especially in parked cars, can lead to overheating or other performance issues. If your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold - Apple Support.
3. Addressing safety issues is also important: Important safety information for iPhone - Apple Support (IN)
Unauthorized Service: Servicing an iPhone through unauthorized channels can result in substandard repairs and void warranties. Users should always seek authorized Apple service centers for repairs and maintenance.
1. Repairs by unqualified technicians can introduce new problems. Find information about your warranty or AppleCare plan - Apple Support is helpful.
2. Modification / Alteration of an iPhone by a third-party vendor may cause issues beyond repair. --> Unauthorized modification of iOS - Apple Support (IN)
Jailbreak: Now, let's talk about jailbreaking. Jailbreaking removes Apple's restrictions, allowing for more customization and app installation outside the App Store. However, it can also lead to instability, security vulnerabilities, and issues receiving future iOS updates.

By considering all these possibilities, you've provided a comprehensive approach to troubleshooting the iPhone's behavior.

Understanding and addressing these factors can help you maintain the optimal performance and longevity of their iPhones. Following Apple's guidelines and seeking authorized support when needed are crucial for a positive user experience.

If you are sure it is the fault of the equipment.

If you have either dropped the device accidentally or exposed it to liquid or used it beyond acceptable temperature limits then…

Take your device to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider, or contact Apple Support:

Find Locations - Location Selector - Apple

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

Get a Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Contact Genius Bar.

Manage Reservations - My Reservations - Apple

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Why is my iPhone 16 Pro Max overheating and lagging with light use?

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