If you’re wondering why is my iPhone 13 being slow, the most common causes are low storage space, background activity, and other factors Apple has documented.
Why is my iPhone 13 being slow?
Apple documents that low device storage, an app that is not responding, background activity, low power or heat-related throttling, poor cellular conditions, and outdated iOS software can all make an iPhone feel slow.
Check your iPhone 13 storage space
Apple says to keep at least 1 GB of free space to avoid slowdowns. Apple says cached and temporary data might not count as usage. To see your storage usage and recommendations:
- Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Review the list of apps and their storage usage.
- Tap an app to choose Offload App or Delete App.
Apple documents that Offload App removes the app but keeps its documents and data, while Delete App removes the app and all its related data. Apple also notes that cached and temporary data might not count as usage in the storage view, so your device may have less usable space than shown.
Manage Background App Refresh on your iPhone 13
Apple says apps in a suspended state are not actively using system resources, but with Background App Refresh they can check for updates and new content. A restricted user, such as one managed under parental controls, cannot enable Background App Refresh. To adjust this setting:
- Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
- Tap Background App Refresh again.
- Turn it off entirely, or choose Wi‑Fi or Wi‑Fi & Cellular Data.
Apple explicitly says that closing all apps does not improve overall performance on an iPhone that seems slow.
Other reasons your iPhone 13 might feel slow
Apple documents several additional causes that can make your iPhone feel slow:
- Weak cellular signal: A device may feel slow if the cellular signal is weak or cellular data has issues across locations. If the problem persists in multiple locations, contact your carrier.
- Extreme temperatures: Extreme temperatures can affect performance. Moving the device to a more moderate temperature can help.
- Unresponsive touch screen: A touch screen that responds incorrectly can make the device seem slow.
- Outdated iOS software: Apple’s slow-device guidance says to update iPhone software if needed. Check for available updates under Settings > General > Software Update.
Updating iOS and operating systems is one of the simplest ways to ensure your iPhone 13 runs smoothly, as Apple includes performance improvements and bug fixes in each release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my iPhone 13 slow?
Apple documents low storage, background activity, poor cellular conditions, heat, touch-screen issues, and outdated software as common causes.
How much free storage should remain?
Apple says at least 1 GB free.
Should all apps be closed to speed it up?
Apple says no; closing all apps does not improve overall performance.
Where is storage checked?
Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
Where is Background App Refresh?
Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
Does Low Power Mode affect Background App Refresh?
Yes, Apple Developer documentation confirms that Background App Refresh is disabled automatically when Low Power Mode is turned on.
For the wider topic, see updating iOS and operating systems.
