Apple has issued a fresh safety alert for iPhone users who routinely leave their devices charging overnight — and the reason is more serious than you might think.
According to Apple’s updated guidance, charging your iPhone while you sleep, particularly if the device is covered by bedding or placed under a pillow, can cause the phone to overheat, increasing the risk of fire or injury.
The Overheating Risk
When an iPhone is plugged in and charging, it naturally generates heat. If airflow is restricted — for example, by blankets or pillows — that heat can’t dissipate properly. Over time, this can cause the battery to degrade more quickly, or in extreme cases, result in burns or even a fire hazard.
Apple’s official recommendation is to charge your phone in a well-ventilated area and to avoid using unofficial or damaged charging cables and adapters.
Not Just About Safety — Battery Health Too
Beyond the immediate danger, heat is one of the biggest enemies of battery longevity. Charging overnight in a warm environment can lead to faster battery wear, meaning you’ll be replacing your phone or its battery sooner.
Apple also advises enabling Optimised Battery Charging, a feature designed to reduce the time your iPhone spends fully charged, slowing down chemical ageing in the battery.
