In response to mounting customer complaints about the iPhone 15's overheating issue, Apple has announced plans to release a software update to address the problem. The tech giant clarified that the overheating was due to a combination of bugs in iOS 17, specific app glitches, and the device's initial setup phase.
Apple's statement came after a flurry of user complaints on various platforms, including Apple's forums, Reddit, and social media, indicating that all four models of the recently launched iPhone 15 tend to run hotter than anticipated. Some users even reported that the iPhone 15 Pro was so hot that it became uncomfortable to hold.
An Apple spokesperson provided clarity on the matter, stating, "We have identified a few conditions which can cause iPhone to run warmer than expected. The device may feel warmer during the first few days after setting up or restoring the device because of increased background activity. We have also found a bug in iOS 17 that is impacting some users and will be addressed in a software update. Another issue involves some recent updates to third-party apps that are causing them to overload the system. We're working with these app developers on fixes that are in the process of rolling out."
The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple's latest high-end models priced at $999 and $1,199 respectively, feature a redesigned titanium enclosure with an aluminum frame, aimed at enhancing reparability. Apple was quick to clarify that the overheating issue was not related to this new titanium design.
The company emphasized that the forthcoming iOS 17 update, intended to rectify the overheating problem, would not compromise the performance of the devices. Apple's official website also provides insights into the conditions under which iPhones might feel warmer, such as during backup setup, wireless charging, using graphics-intensive apps or games, or streaming high-definition videos. The company assures users that it's typical for devices to feel warm during heavy usage, and unless a temperature warning is displayed, the iPhones are safe to use.
Despite the overheating concerns, the new iPhone models seem to be in high demand. Shipping times for these devices have been extended by several weeks, and Apple stores witnessed long queues on launch day. JPMorgan analysts noted, "Interestingly, lead times for the 15 Pro Max, 15 Plus, and 15 are tracking more elevated relative to their predecessors (e.g., iPhone 14 Series), and the 15 Pro Max is boasting the highest lead time we have seen historically across all SKUs since we have been tracking lead time data."
However, Ming-Chi Kuo, a renowned Apple supply chain analyst, opined last week that the iPhone 15's overheating issue might negatively impact sales.
Apple has previously encountered challenges during product launches, but these have not significantly affected the company's long-term trajectory. Notably, the iPhone 4, released in 2010, had a design flaw leading to dropped calls, for which Apple provided free cases. In 2012, post the iPhone 5 launch, Apple CEO Tim Cook apologized for the glitches in Apple Maps. The iPhone 6, launched in 2014, faced criticism for bending under pressure.
