Apple sends heated message to iPhone 3G and 3GS users
02 Jul 2009
Apple Inc has warned users against allowing its iPhone3G and iPhone3GS, which has redefined the smart-phone market, from overheating.
After users complained on the web that the iPhones were overheating during usage, Apple issued a warning, ''Operate iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS in a place where the temperature is between 0º and 35º C (32º to 95º F). Low- or high-temperature conditions might temporarily shorten battery life or cause the device to temporarily stop working properly.''
The overheating problem has occurred even in the latest version of the Apple iPhone, the 3GS, which was launched last month, (See: Apple unveils the high speed iPhone3G S) and has sold over one million units so far.
The iPhone 3GS's central processor is faster with chip functions at about 600MHz while the older version, the iPhone 3G runs at 400MHz. Technically the 3GS chip should use less power since many chipmakers have embraced the latest technology, where the chips although run faster but consume low power.
The company has advised the users of the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS, to store the handset in a place where the temperature is between -20º and 45º C (-4º to 113º F) and warned them not to leave the device in their cars because temperatures in parked cars can exceed this range.
It added that if the interior temperature of the device exceeds normal operating temperatures, the users may experience the following as it attempts to regulate its temperature:
- The device stops charging
- Display dims
Weak cellular signal - Temperature warning screen appears with the message "iPhone needs to cool down before you can use it" (see image below)
- It also displays a message reading, ''iPhone needs to cool down before you can use it.''
- This message appears when the operating temperature has become too hot. This is a safety mechanism that protects the components of your device. If this message appears, you should turn the device off, move it to a cooler environment, and allow it to cool before resuming use.
- The company explained some conditions and activities that may activate the temperature warning message like:
- Leaving the device in a car on a hot day.
- Leaving it in direct sunlight for extended amounts of time.
- Using certain applications in hot conditions or direct sunlight for long periods of time, such as GPS tracking in a car on a sunny day or listening to music while in direct sunlight.
