Experiencing your iPhone screen going black during a call can be frustrating. This problem often relates to the proximity sensor, which may not be working correctly. When this sensor fails, the screen might turn off prematurely. There are multiple solutions to explore. This includes troubleshooting steps like cleaning the sensor or hard restarting the device. Each step aims to get your iPhone back to working flawlessly during calls.
Another potential cause can be software glitches in the iOS system. Updating the device to the latest software version might resolve the issue. Additionally, some users have found that adjusting accessibility settings can make a significant difference. For some, simple actions such as removing the phone case or uninstalling certain apps have worked.
iPhone Screen Goes Black During Call: Causes and Solutions
If your iPhone screen goes black during calls, preventing you from accessing the keypad, hanging up, or switching to speaker mode — you’re not alone. This issue is fairly common and usually tied to the proximity sensor, a small but essential component near the top of your iPhone’s display.
This guide explains why your iPhone screen turns black during calls and how to fix it step-by-step, whether the cause is hardware, software, or accessories.
🔍 Why Does the iPhone Screen Go Black During Calls?
Apple designed iPhones with a proximity sensor near the earpiece that automatically turns off the display when you hold the phone close to your ear. This prevents accidental touches on the screen during a call.
However, if your screen stays black even when you move the phone away, it usually means the sensor is malfunctioning or being obstructed.
Common Causes:
- Dirty or blocked proximity sensor (dust, oil, or screen protector interference).
- Software glitches after iOS updates.
- Faulty screen protector or case covering the sensor area.
- Hardware damage (especially after drops or repairs).
- Third-party calling apps (like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom) misbehaving.
🧼 1. Clean the Proximity Sensor Area
Most common cause: Dust or smudges near the top of your iPhone screen.
Fix:
- Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the area near the front camera and earpiece.
- Avoid using liquids directly on the screen.
- Remove any debris or residue from your case.
Tip: The proximity sensor is located above the display, near the notch or Dynamic Island (depending on your model).
🧩 2. Remove or Replace Your Screen Protector or Case
Some screen protectors — especially tinted or thick ones — can block the proximity sensor.
Fix:
- Remove your screen protector.
- Test a call to see if the screen now turns on when you move the phone away from your face.
- If it works, replace your protector with a sensor-friendly model that has a cutout near the earpiece.
🔄 3. Restart or Force Restart Your iPhone
A quick restart can fix temporary software glitches.
Restart:
- Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up (or Down) → slide to power off → wait 30 seconds → turn back on.
Force Restart:
- Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
⚙️ 4. Check for iOS Updates
Apple often releases minor updates to fix proximity sensor or display issues.
To update:
- Go to Settings › General › Software Update → install any available updates.
If you’re already on the latest version (like iOS 18.7.2 or iOS 26.1 as of November 2025), your device should already include recent sensor fixes.
🧠 5. Reset All Settings
If the problem persists, reset all system settings (this won’t erase your data).
Steps:
- Go to Settings › General › Transfer or Reset iPhone › Reset › Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
This resets network, display, and sensor configurations to default.
📞 6. Test with Third-Party Apps
If the screen only goes black during FaceTime, WhatsApp, or Messenger calls, the issue may be app-specific.
Fix:
- Update the affected app via the App Store.
- If the issue persists, uninstall and reinstall the app.
- Test with a standard phone call to confirm if the problem is system-wide.
🧰 7. Use Diagnostic Tools (Apple Support)
Apple’s built-in diagnostics can help identify hardware issues with the proximity sensor.
Steps:
- Open the Apple Support app or visit support.apple.com.
- Choose your device → Start a Diagnosis.
- Follow the prompts to test sensors and display functions.
If the proximity sensor fails the test, you may need professional repair.
🧑🔧 8. Contact Apple or Authorized Service
If none of the above fixes work, the proximity sensor or display assembly may be damaged.
This can happen after screen replacements or drops.
Options:
- Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider.
- Contact Apple Support for repair options.
- If your iPhone is under warranty or AppleCare+, the repair may be covered.
✅ Quick Summary
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Screen stays black after moving phone away | Dirty or blocked proximity sensor | Clean the top of the screen |
| Screen goes black only with case/protector | Accessory interference | Remove or replace protector |
| Random blackouts during calls | Software glitch | Restart or update iOS |
| Persistent issue after updates | Configuration error | Reset all settings |
| Still not fixed | Hardware fault | Contact Apple Support |
🏁 Final Thoughts
A black screen during calls is usually not a major hardware failure — it’s often caused by a blocked or miscalibrated proximity sensor. Cleaning the screen, removing accessories, or updating iOS usually solves the issue.
If your iPhone continues to behave oddly after trying these fixes, it’s best to let Apple run a diagnostic to ensure the sensor and display are functioning properly.
Sources:
- SimplyMac – How to Fix the Black Screen While Calling Issue
- Guiding Tech – Fix iPhone Screen Goes Black During Call
- Computer City – iPhone Screen Goes Black During Calls
Key Takeaways
- The issue is often related to the proximity sensor.
- Software updates and adjustments to settings are potential solutions.
- Simple fixes like cleaning the sensor or hard resets can be effective.
Understanding iPhone Screen Issues During Calls
iPhone screens going black during calls can be frustrating. Knowing why this happens and how to fix it can help users maintain their devices better.
Role of Proximity Sensor in Screen Behavior
The proximity sensor in an iPhone helps save battery by turning off the screen during calls. It detects when your face is close to the phone and reacts by blacking out the screen. It prevents accidental touches from your cheek or ear. But when this sensor fails, the screen might stay black or not respond.
It’s a small sensor at the top of the screen. Issues might occur if it gets dirty or blocked. Clean the area around the front camera gently. Don’t cover the top part of the phone with cases or screen protectors that block the sensor.
Common iPhone Models Affected
Several iPhone models might experience this black screen issue. This problem isn’t limited to old phones. Even newer models like the iPhone X and iPhone XR can have this problem. The issue isn’t tied to a specific model, meaning it’s important for all iPhone users to be aware.
Different iPhones have different ways to troubleshoot. For instance, iPhone 7 users need to press the Side and Volume Down buttons to reset. Meanwhile, iPhone X users may need to press the Volume Up, Volume Down, and Side buttons. Knowing your model helps you find the right fix.
Impact of iOS System on Screen Functionality
The iOS system plays a key role in how the iPhone screen works during calls. System updates can introduce bugs that affect the proximity sensor. When the sensor isn’t working properly, the screen stays black. Keeping your iOS updated can help fix these bugs.
Sometimes, system glitches might need a more serious fix. You might have to reset all settings or use an iOS system recovery tool. Doing a regular software update can also prevent many issues from happening in the first place. If problems continue, contacting support might be necessary.
Taking these steps can ensure your iPhone works properly during calls, and you can avoid the screen going black at inconvenient times.
