A number of customers contend that the titanium frame on higher-priced models gets uncomfortably hot to the touch.
Apple is grappling with user complaints regarding overheating issues with its latest iPhone 15 models. Some customers are reporting that the titanium frame becomes uncomfortably hot to handle.
On Apple’s community forum, users are sharing feedback about overheating problems with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. One user expressed, “I’ve got the new iPhone 15 Pro, and it’s uncomfortably hot to the touch.” Another user wrote, “My skin is hurting! What’s happening with the iPhone 15 Pro Max?”
Numerous posts on the Apple forum discuss overheating concerns related to the iPhone 15 Pro series, with one user even posting a photo of their iPhone 15 next to a thermometer registering a temperature of 44°C (111°F). Similar discussions are also taking place on platforms like X and Reddit
Ming-Chi Kuo, an Apple analyst at TF International Securities, suggested that any overheating issues might stem from design compromises aimed at reducing the phone’s weight. The iPhone Pro model’s titanium frame, which is a poor heat conductor, could hinder heat dispersion, whereas Apple had previously used stainless steel for its premium phones.
Kuo noted, “The primary cause is more likely the compromises made in the thermal system design to achieve a lighter weight, such as the reduced heat dissipation area and the use of a titanium frame, which negatively impacts thermal efficiency.”
He speculated that Apple would likely address the problem through software updates and indicated that the issue probably wasn’t related to a new chip made in Taiwan for the Pro models.
Kuo also pointed out that if left unaddressed, this problem could potentially impact iPhone Pro sales. The iPhone 15 was released last week in the UK, with prices ranging from £799 for the basic model to £999 for the Pro and £1,199 for the larger Pro Max.
In our examination, it reaches a temperature of 44°C. The key consideration is whether Apple deems this acceptable,” he remarked.
Ben Wood, CCS Insight’s chief analyst, stated that any heat-related problem would not pose a safety risk. “There won’t be a widespread recall of iPhones at any time. This is something that can be adjusted if necessary,” he explained, further noting that the vast majority of smartphone users wouldn’t discern any performance alteration with a software update.
