The convenience of keeping smartphones within arm’s reach, even while sleeping, has led to a concerning cautionary note from tech giant Apple, the creator of iPhones. Recent attention has been drawn to the potential fire hazards associated with sleeping near devices plugged into charging cables.
Numerous studies have already highlighted the potential health risks linked to sleeping in close proximity to smartphones. Now, Apple is taking a direct approach by including a warning in their online user guide for iPhones, urging users to exercise caution when charging their devices while they sleep.
Apple’s guidance stresses the importance of charging iPhones in well-ventilated environments and on flat surfaces like tables. Specifically discouraged are charging practices involving soft surfaces such as blankets, pillows, or direct body contact.
The crux of the advisory lies in the heat generated during the charging process. If this heat becomes trapped due to confinement, it can result in burns or, in extreme cases, even trigger fires. The practice of placing a charging phone under a pillow is identified as particularly hazardous.
In Apple’s words, the key message is unequivocal: “Don’t sleep on a device, power adapter, or wireless charger, or place them under a blanket, pillow, or your body, when it’s connected to a power source. Keep your iPhone, the power adapter, and any wireless charger in a well-ventilated area when in use or charging. Take special care if you have a physical condition that affects your ability to detect heat against the body.”
The tech giant goes further, advising against using damaged cables or chargers, as well as refraining from charging when moisture is present. This direct and cautionary stance reflects Apple’s commitment to user safety and the responsible use of their devices. As technology integrates further into daily life, such guidance underscores the importance of being mindful of device usage, especially during potentially risky scenarios like charging overnight.