iPhone 13 overheating and potential safety risk

bacrita wrote:

my iPhone 13, 128 GB, which I purchased approximately three years ago.

Recently, the phone has started overheating significantly during normal use, including while charging and even when I am simply using it for basic tasks. The device becomes extremely hot to the touch, which is very concerning.

I am genuinely worried about the safety of this device. I do not want to risk leaving it charging overnight or unattended, as I am concerned it could pose a fire hazard. This situation is causing me serious concern about the safety of my home.

I would like Apple to carry out a full diagnostic assessment of the device and confirm whether it is safe to continue using and charging. I expect a clear explanation of the issue and an appropriate solution.

Please treat this as a safety-related complaint

This is a user to user only forum, not Apple Support. I'm sure Apple would be happy to test your phone. Schedule an appointment at your closest Apple Store Genius Bar and they'll let you know if there is an issue (likely a failing battery, which you can pay them to replace) or something more serious. You can use this link to schedule an appointment --> Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

What is your Battery Health? If it is below 80%, you would absolutely need service for a replacement. The phone is only expected to last for 500 charge cycles and it would be unusual for an iPhone 13 to not require a battery replacement by now. That information is available for you to look yourself at Settings > Battery > Battery Health, but you can also contact Apple directly or schedule an appointment with them for a complete diagnostic.

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

Ignoring the Service Required message in the battery settings when the Battery Health is below 80% can be a safety problem if the battery starts to swell and also cause additional damage to your phone. You don't want to mess with a failing battery and it should only be replaced by Apple or Authorized Service Provider. If you do see that it is less than 80%, you can expect to pay about $89-$99.

Apple Service and Repair for iPhone Battery - Apple Support

Sorry, but you’ve reached an online community of fellow Apple users.

We assist other users with their devices and in navigating thru Apple’s vast support ecosystem.

Apple CSRs do not actively participate here.

In your case, you’ll need to contact Official Apple Support to make your request to Apple.

In the interim … what value is displayed for your Battery Health?

Anything less than 80% indicates that a battery replacement is due / overdue.

iPhone battery and performance - Apple Support

Apple Service and Repair for iPhone Battery - Apple Support

Thank you for participating in the Apple Support Community.

We want to make sure you reach the right team for help with your device. We recommend that you contact Apple Support directly. Depending on your region, you may be able to reach them here: Get Support.

We won't go into detail....that will be up to Apple....but your battery is on its last legs, and that will explain a lot.

I also hope you had not previously replaced the battery from an unauthorized provider or purchased a refurbished device from a third party where it may not be the OEM battery. While it is possible for a 3 year old device to still be showing 84% Battery Health, it is just not that common for an iPhone 13.

Re: “… it is just not that common for an iPhone 13 … “

Indeed it’s not.

For comparison, I just replaced the original battery on an iPhone 14 Pro Max last week (at 78%).