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How to Fix iPhone Screen Goes Black During Call

Quick Tips
  • If the screen goes black during calls, your iPhone’s Proximity Sensor might be the cause. So, clean the screen or remove the screen protector to resolve the issue.
  • You can also disable Reduce Motion or Reset All Settings to see if the issue is fixed.
  • However, if nothing else works, contact Apple Support and visit a certified technician.

Why Does My iPhone Screen Go Black During Call?

Several factors can affect your call experience on an iPhone. Here are some common reasons for a black screen during active calls on an iPhone.

  • A hard case messing up the side button on the iPhone
  • A thick screen protector
  • Incorrect settings
  • Water damage
  • Outdated software system
  • Buggy proximity sensor

Basic Fixes 

  • Force restart the iPhone: There can be times when you can’t access the iPhone home screen after the call. The reboot option won’t work here, as you can’t see the screen in the first place, so you’ll have to force restart the device.
  • Clean the screen and sensor: If your iPhone’s proximity sensor malfunctions, the screen may remain black during a call. Placed above the receiver, the sensor kicks in and turns off the screen when you answer a call and put the iPhone near your ear. Clean the top part of your iPhone and try accessing phone options during a call.
  • Remove the screen protector case: Thick screen protectors can mess up the proximity sensor on your iPhone. The sensor can’t detect when you place or move the phone beside your ears. Remove such a screen protector and try taking calls again. Hopefully, you won’t notice the screen going black during a call.
  • Awake the screen manually: Tap the display to switch on the panel. Don’t press the side button as it ends the calls on your phone.
  • Update iOS: Updates can usually fix bug-related issues. So, head to Settings → General → Software Update, and update the device if available.

Fix 1. Disable Reduce Motion From Accessibility

The Reduce Motion option eliminates animations from iOS and makes your phone feel faster. If you have enabled the Reduce Motion option, disable it to fix the iPhone whose screen goes black during a call.

Step 1: Open the Settings app. Head to the Accessibility menu.

Step 2: Select Motion.

Step 3: Disable the Reduce Motion toggle from the following menu.

Fix 2. Reset All Settings

A wrong setting tweak can also make the screen black during a call, especially if you’re not holding the phone close to your face. Follow the steps below to reset the settings on your iPhone.

Step 1: Open the Settings. Head to the General menu.

Step 2: Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 3: Tap on Reset and select Reset All Settings.

Fix 3. Visit Apple Center

Did you apply all the tricks above and still see the iPhone screen going black during the call? Though unlikely, the chances are that your iPhone’s proximity sensor needs a replacement. Book an appointment at the nearest Apple service center, explain the problem, and they should diagnose and fix it.

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Last updated on 07 August, 2024

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