Cooling overheated phones in fridges risks damage, UK repair shops warn

A viral TikTok tip suggests cooling overheated smartphones in refrigerators or freezers, but experts warn the practice can cause condensation, short circuits, and permanent device damage. Condensation forms when cold devices meet warm room air, risking short circuits and corrosion inside. Even waterproof phones remain vulnerable. The temperature shock may also crack screens or compromise seals. BBC reports UK repair shops already receiving numerous smartphones and tablets damaged this way. During a British heatwave, one repair shop reported an iPad exploding after its battery had swollen. Rapid temperature shifts can also crack screens or permanently weaken protective seals.