When your iPhone repeatedly returns to the PIN lock screen, it can be frustrating, especially during important tasks. You might wonder, “What causes the iPhone to keep going back to the lock screen?” Several factors could contribute to this issue:
- iOS version: The iOS version you’re using is a primary factor. Updating or downgrading to a different iOS version has been reported to resolve this problem.
- Corrupt iOS: Corrupt iOS settings could be another cause. Resetting all iOS settings and restarting your iPhone may rectify this error.
- Unlocked secondhand iPhone: If you’ve used software to unlock a secondhand iPhone, a flawed unlocking process could be the culprit. Using the correct tool might resolve this issue.
- Notifications from different apps: Certain apps sending notifications at specific times could also trigger the problem.
- Conflicts Among Apps: Consider whether you’ve recently installed a new app. The newly downloaded app might clash with other apps currently running, resulting in unexpected issues.
- Incorrect Configuration of Date and Time: The functionality of features on your iPhone is heavily dependent on accurate date and time settings. If these settings are not configured correctly, your iPhone may consistently return to the lock screen.
Let’s look into various methods to address this issue:
1. Restarting Your iPhone or iPad
Many instances of buggy behavior can be resolved with a straightforward restart. This holds true even if your iPhone or iPad repeatedly returns to the Lock screen.
To restart your device, simultaneously press and hold the Sleep/Wake (or Power) button along with the Volume Down button. Once the “slide to power off” option appears, slide it. Afterward, wait for 30 seconds before pressing the Sleep/Wake button again to initiate the restart process.
2. Force Reboot to Fix the Issue
The steps to force reboot differ based on your iPhone model:
– For iPhone 8, X, and 11: Press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and finally, hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.
– For iPhone 7: Simultaneously press the On/Off button and the Volume Down button until the Apple logo appears.
– For iPhone SE/6s and earlier: Press and hold the Home and Power buttons until the Apple logo appears.
3. Reset Settings to Resolve the Issue
You can reset your iPhone’s iOS settings:
- Go to Settings, then General, and select Reset.
- Choose “Reset All Settings” and confirm with your Apple Password.
4. Adjust Your Auto-Lock Settings
If your iPhone or iPad continues to return to the Lock screen even after a restart, you may need to modify your Auto-Lock settings. This feature automatically puts your device to sleep after a brief period of inactivity, conserving battery power and preventing screen burn.
To tweak your Auto-Lock settings:
- Navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness.
- Scroll down and select Auto-Lock to extend the duration.
If you encounter difficulty adjusting the Auto-Lock settings, try disabling Low Power Mode first. Low Power Mode automatically sets Auto-Lock to 30 seconds.
Exercise caution when setting Auto-Lock to “Never,” as it can drain your battery if you forget to manually lock your device. Additionally, failing to lock your iPhone before stowing it away may result in accidental pocket dials.
5. Update to iOS 12 or Later
Updating iOS to the latest version may resolve the issue:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to General, then Software Update, and select Download and Install.
- Enter your Apple ID passcode, agree to the Terms and Conditions, and confirm.
6. Correct Date & Time
Try changing the time zone to a location where it’s a day behind. After changing, your iPhone may crash once but should be fine afterward:
- In Settings, go to General, then Date & Time.
- Turn off “Set Automatically” and select a city where it’s yesterday.
- The time should update accordingly.
Note: Setting the time back to your city’s time zone may not solve the issue and could cause inconvenience due to incorrect time.
7. Turn Off Notifications
Disable notifications for all apps or specific ones:
- In Settings, go to Notifications.
- Choose apps to turn off notifications or disable them altogether.
This method has proven effective for many users in resolving the issue when other methods fail.
8. Remove Your Device from Its Case
Your iPhone or iPad utilizes various sensors to detect when it’s enclosed in a case, prompting it to lock the screen. A malfunctioning case might inadvertently trigger these sensors.
To troubleshoot, try taking your iPhone or iPad out of its case—this includes iPad Smart Covers—and observe if it still returns to the Lock screen. Additionally, be mindful of keeping your iPad away from magnets, as they can activate specific sensors and trigger the screen lock.
To prevent your iPhone or iPad from locking when the case is closed:
- Navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness.
- Disable the Lock/Unlock option.