iPhone users love the “Raise to Wake” feature. It makes checking notifications or the time much simpler. Sometimes though, this feature might stop working. If your “Raise to Wake” feature isn’t responsive, it could be due to a simple setting adjustment or a need for a device restart.
Making sure the “Raise to Wake” option is enabled is crucial. You can do this by heading to Settings, then Display & Brightness. If it’s already on but still not working, restarting the device often helps. Simple fixes like these can usually solve the problem.
iPhone Raise to Wake Not Working: Causes and Fixes
Raise to Wake is a convenient iPhone feature that automatically wakes the screen when you lift your device. If it stops working, it can be frustrating—especially if you rely on it for quick notifications or Face ID. This guide explains why Raise to Wake may not be working and provides practical fixes to restore the feature.
What Is Raise to Wake?
Raise to Wake uses iPhone motion sensors to detect when you lift the device and then turns on the lock screen automatically. It works on iPhone models starting with iPhone 6s and newer, running iOS 10 or later.
Common Reasons Raise to Wake Isn’t Working
Before diving into fixes, it helps to understand what may be causing the issue:
- Raise to Wake is turned off in settings
- Low Power Mode is enabled
- Motion sensors aren’t responding properly
- Software bugs or outdated iOS version
- Display or hardware damage
- Certain accessibility settings interfering
How to Fix iPhone Raise to Wake Not Working
1. Check If Raise to Wake Is Enabled
This is the most common issue.
- Open Settings
- Tap Display & Brightness
- Toggle Raise to Wake ON
Lock your iPhone and test the feature again.
2. Turn Off Low Power Mode
Low Power Mode limits background features, including motion-based functions.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Battery
- Turn Low Power Mode OFF
Check if Raise to Wake starts working again.
3. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can fix temporary sensor or system glitches.
- Hold the Side button + Volume button
- Slide to power off
- Wait 30 seconds and turn the phone back on
4. Update iOS
Software bugs can disable Raise to Wake functionality.
- Open Settings
- Tap General
- Select Software Update
- Install any available updates
Apple frequently fixes sensor-related bugs in iOS updates.
5. Check Accessibility Settings
Certain accessibility features may interfere with motion detection.
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accessibility
- Select Motion
- Ensure Reduce Motion is OFF
Also check Touch and Display settings for custom configurations.
6. Test Auto-Lock and Attention Settings
Raise to Wake works best alongside attention-based features.
- Go to Settings > Display & Brightness
- Set Auto-Lock to a short duration
- Navigate to Face ID & Passcode
- Enable Attention-Aware Features
7. Remove Thick Cases or Screen Protectors
Bulky cases or magnetic accessories can interfere with motion sensors.
- Remove the case temporarily
- Test Raise to Wake without accessories
If it works, consider switching to a thinner case.
8. Reset All Settings (Last Software Option)
If the problem persists, resetting settings can help.
- Go to Settings
- Tap General
- Select Transfer or Reset iPhone
- Tap Reset
- Choose Reset All Settings
⚠️ This won’t delete data but will reset Wi‑Fi, display, and system preferences.
When Raise to Wake Still Doesn’t Work
If none of the fixes work, the issue may be hardware-related.
Possible Hardware Causes
- Damaged motion sensors
- Water or drop damage
- Faulty display components
In this case:
- Contact Apple Support
- Visit an Apple Authorized Service Provider
Alternative Features You Can Use
If Raise to Wake can’t be restored, try:
- Tap to Wake (available on newer iPhones)
- Always-On Display (supported models)
- Pressing the Side button to wake the screen
Final Thoughts
Raise to Wake is a small but useful feature, and most issues can be fixed with simple setting checks or a software update. In rare cases, hardware damage may be to blame—but it’s best to exhaust all software solutions first.
Key Takeaways
- Check if “Raise to Wake” is enabled in Settings.
- Restarting your iPhone can often fix the issue.
- Basic troubleshooting steps often resolve the problem.
Diagnosing ‘Raise to Wake’ Issues
To fix ‘Raise to Wake’ issues on an iPhone, it’s important to check settings and explore common troubleshooting steps. This helps in identifying and resolving the problem efficiently.
Verifying Settings and Compatibility
Start by checking if ‘Raise to Wake’ is turned on. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and confirm that the feature is enabled. This setting may also be under General or Accessibility sections on some devices.
It’s also essential to know that this feature works only on certain iPhone models. Make sure your iPhone supports ‘Raise to Wake’. For example, iPhone X and newer models have this feature. Check the iOS version as well. An outdated iOS can cause functionality issues. Go to Settings > General > Software Update and ensure you have the latest version installed.
Common Solutions for Functionality Problems
If the setting is correct and your iPhone model supports it yet it’s not working, try basic fixes. Restarting the phone is often effective. Hold the side button and any volume button until the slider appears. Slide to power off, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
Removing any screen protectors or cases is another possible fix. These can sometimes interfere with the sensors. Next, check if Lock Screen widgets are causing trouble. Remove unnecessary widgets by unlocking your iPhone and swiping left on the Lock Screen.
Resetting the settings might help too. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t delete your data but will reset customized settings. If none of these steps work, contact Apple Support for further assistance.
