How To Disable Proximity Sensor iPhone?

Proximity sensors are sensors that detect the presence of objects without having to make contact with them. For a proximity sensor to detect an object, it has to be close to the object. Follow the easy steps on How To Disable Proximity Sensor iPhone.

The iPhone is an excellent example of a device that has proximity sensors. In this article, you’ll learn how to disable the proximity sensor on the iPhone and more about the iPhone proximity sensor. Let’s get started!

How To Disable Proximity Sensor On iPhone?

The iPhone comes with a proximity sensor that emits a beam of electromagnetic radiation that looks for changes in the field or return signal. This return signal sends an automatic message to the iPhone, which it acts upon immediately. Note that different iPhone models come with different proximity sensors.

This proximity sensor comes in different types: optical, inductive, capacitive, magnetic, and ultrasonic proximity sensors.

Unfortunately, you cannot disable this feature on an iPhone. In every generation of the iPhone, there’s been a proximity sensor. Right from the first release, that gives users a safe experience when the screen is close to an object. Let’s go through some benefits of the proximity sensor on the iPhone.

Benefits Of The Proximity Sensor In iPhone

  1. The proximity sensor of an iPhone acts as a guard against accidental touching of any button while making a call by automatically turning your screen dark blue.
  1. It also helps reduce battery consumption while you’re on call.
  1. The proximity sensor will turn on your screen when you take it off your ear and want to use some tabs instead of pressing your power button, which will end the call if you use the power button.

These benefits must have stirred up a change of mind in seeking how to disable the proximity sensor on your iPhone. If yours is not functioning correctly, continue reading. Let’s help you fix it.

How To Fix The Proximity Sensor On An iPhone?

Method #1 Force Restart

Force restarting a device jogs the system and makes the hardware function correctly. The iPhone is not exempted from this, even though iOS devices seem unusual compared to other devices. To use this method effectively, follow these steps carefully:

  • Step #1 : If you’re using an iPhone 6s or earlier, press and hold the Home Button and Power Button till Apple’s logo appears on your screen. And if you’re using an iPhone 7 or 7 plus, press the Volume and Power Buttons simultaneously until Apple’s logo appears on your screen. On an iPhone 8 or later, press and release the Volume Up Button, press and release the Volume Down Button, and then press the Power Button until Apple’s logo appears on your screen.
  • Step #2 : Keep holding the buttons until your iPhone restarts.

Method #2 Surface Cleaning

Sometimes moisture or debris finds its way to the screen of your iPhone or the tip of your iPhone’s case close to the proximity sensor and, in turn, causes it to malfunction. This method of fixing your iPhone’s proximity sensor gives the best results when using these steps:

  • Step #1 : Get a dry wipe or lint-free cloth.
  • Step #2 : Locate the proximity sensor above the speaker in front of your screen.
  • Step #3 : Wipe the proximity sensor slowly.
  • Step #4 : Test the result by making a call. If it still malfunctions, check if your screen protector is cracked. If it’s cracked, replace it with a new one.

Method #3 Software Updating

Running an old software version could hinder the effective functioning of the iPhone’s proximity sensor. If, after using the previous methods, the proximity sensor still hasn’t started functioning correctly, go ahead and use these steps:

  • Step #1 : Go to Settings on your iPhone.
Go to Settings on your iPhone
  • Step #2 : Tap on General
Tap on General
  • Step #3 : Tap on Software Update
Tap on Software Update

If your iOS software is outdated, install the latest available update.

Method #4 Factory Reset

This method would wipe all existing data on your phone. Before using this method, ensure you’ve backed up your data to cloud storage or computer. Once that has been done, continue with these steps:

  • Step #1 : Launch the Settings app.
  • Step #2 : Tap on General
How To Disable Proximity Sensor iPhone
  • Step #3 : Scroll down and tap Reset, then tap Erase All Contents And Data.
How To Disable Proximity Sensor iPhone
  • Step #4 : Confirm your action by entering your Apple Id Passcode.

Method #5 Using ReiBoot App

This method requires a PC and an installed ReiBoot App. If you’ve not installed this app yet, go ahead and do so, then continue with the steps below.

  • Step #1 : Open the ReiBoot App on your PC.
  • Step #2 : Connect your iPhone to your PC using a USB cable.
  • Step #3 : Tap on Fix Now to repair.
  • Step #4 : Wait for the ReiBoot App to finish fixing your bugged iPhone.
  • Step #5 : Test the proximity sensor by making a call.

Method #6 Putting Your iPhone On DFU Mode

Before you start, you should note that this method deletes every bit of data on your phone, and something might go wrong. Here’s what to do if you’re using this method.

  • Step #1 : Connect your iPhone to your PC using a USB cable and run iTunes.
  • Step #2 : Press and hold the Sleep and Home Buttons at the same time.
  • Step #3 : Release the Sleep Button after 10 seconds while holding the Home Button.
  • Step #4 : Wait for iTunes to detect an iPhone in recovery mode and then leave the home button.
  • Step #5 : Your iPhone will enter DFU mode. If it didn’t, restart the whole process.

FAQs on iPhone’s Proximity Sensor

How Do I Know That My iPhone’s Proximity Sensor Is Malfunctioning?

You can easily detect if your iPhone’s proximity sensor is malfunctioning by making a quick call and checking to see if the display remains on when you cover the sensor with your palm, or you can turn on your screen and check if it’ll turn off when you put it in your pocket. If it remains on, then it isn’t perfect.

How Can I Test My iPhone’s Sensor?

To test your iPhone sensor, open the phone app and tap the dial. Input *#0*#. A diagnostic screen will appear with different test options. Tap on Red, Green, and Blue to run a test on pixel colors. Tap on Sensor to check the accelerometer and other sensors. Tap the Receiver to check audio and vibration.

Can Apple Check If My iPhone Has Been Hacked?

Yes, it can. When Apple detects that a state-sponsored hacking operation has targeted you, they’ll notify you through iMessage or email. Not just that, they’ll send a threat notification to you when you sign in with your Apple ID.

Why Is My Proximity Sensor Not Working?

Many problems with proximity sensors are related to dirt on the proximity sensor. To resolve this wipe, wipe your screen with a dry rag. If you’re using an iPhone case that does not fit, consider replacing it with one that fits it and doesn’t cover the proximity sensor.

Can Alcohol Damage My iPhone Screen?

Yes, it can. When you discover solid debris on your screen, you’ve tried using a dry wipe to clean it. However, there are still glaring particles on your screen surface; your first thought would be to use alcohol. Don’t take that idea! Alcohol strips the oleophobic and hydrophobic coatings that prevent oil and water from damaging your display.

Disable Proximity Sensor iPhone

iPhone users often face the problem of the iPhone screen turning off and not turning on immediately after a call due to proximity sensor issues. Hence the need to disable it. This article has taught you the benefits of proximity sensors and how to fix them when they are faulty. Leave a comment in the comment box, letting us know how helpful this article was for you.

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