It’s an all-too-familiar frustration: you’re in the middle of an important call, perhaps navigating a complex menu or referencing crucial information on your screen, and suddenly – blackness. Your screen has timed out, forcing you to frantically tap it back to life. This seemingly minor annoyance can disrupt the flow of your conversation, make you appear unprofessional, and generally hinder your multitasking abilities. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent your screen from turning off during calls, ensuring a smoother and more productive calling experience.
Understanding The Problem: Display Timeout Settings
The culprit behind this inconvenient screen dimming is your device’s display timeout setting. This feature is designed to conserve battery life by automatically turning off the screen after a period of inactivity. While beneficial in many situations, it can be detrimental during calls, especially when you need to access other apps or features on your phone.
Think of it as a power-saving measure gone rogue during your crucial moments. The screen timeout is a default setting in most smartphones, meant to optimize battery performance when the device is idle. Understanding this basic concept is the first step towards a solution. The good news is that these settings are usually customizable.
Android’s Screen Timeout Options
Android devices offer a range of screen timeout durations, typically from a few seconds to several minutes. The exact options may vary depending on the device manufacturer and Android version, but the principle remains the same: a shorter timeout saves more battery, while a longer timeout keeps the screen on for longer periods.
To adjust the screen timeout on your Android device, you generally need to navigate to the Settings app. Then, look for sections like “Display,” “Screen,” or “Lock screen.” Within these sections, you should find the “Screen timeout,” “Sleep,” or “Display timeout” option.
You can then select your preferred duration. For example, you might choose 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or even “Never” (though the “Never” option is generally not recommended as it can drain your battery quickly).
IOS (iPhone) Auto-Lock Settings
iPhones use a similar feature called Auto-Lock. Located within the Settings app, the Auto-Lock feature allows you to control how long your iPhone’s screen stays on before automatically turning off.
To adjust the Auto-Lock settings on your iPhone, open the Settings app, scroll down to “Display & Brightness,” and then tap on “Auto-Lock.” Here, you’ll find options ranging from 30 seconds to 5 minutes, as well as a “Never” option.
Just like on Android, selecting “Never” will prevent your screen from turning off automatically, but it will also significantly reduce your battery life. It’s generally best to choose a longer duration, such as 5 minutes, if you frequently need to keep your screen on during calls.
Temporarily Disabling Screen Timeout During Calls
While adjusting the global screen timeout setting can be effective, it might not be ideal if you only need to prevent the screen from turning off during calls. Fortunately, there are other methods you can use to temporarily disable the screen timeout specifically when you’re on a call.
Using Third-Party Apps
Several third-party apps available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store can help you manage your screen timeout behavior during calls. These apps often offer more granular control over the screen timeout settings, allowing you to customize them based on the specific app you’re using, or even the type of call you’re on (e.g., voice call vs. video call).
For example, some apps can automatically keep the screen on whenever you’re using the phone app, or when a call is in progress. Others might allow you to create custom rules based on specific conditions, such as the duration of the call or the type of network you’re connected to.
Before installing any third-party app, be sure to check its reviews and ratings, and carefully review its permissions to ensure that it’s not collecting or sharing your personal data without your consent. Look for apps with a good reputation and a privacy policy that you’re comfortable with.
Utilizing Accessibility Settings
Both Android and iOS offer accessibility features that can indirectly help you keep your screen on during calls. These features are primarily designed to assist users with disabilities, but they can also be useful for anyone who needs to maintain a constant display.
On Android, you can explore the accessibility settings related to screen manipulation or interaction. Some devices have features that allow you to keep the screen on as long as you are looking at it. Though usually used for something else, you can point the camera toward a static object while on a call and the screen will stay on.
On iOS, the “Attention Aware Features” found in Settings > Face ID & Passcode, can detect when you’re paying attention to your device and prevent the screen from dimming.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even after adjusting your screen timeout settings or using third-party apps, you might still encounter issues with your screen turning off during calls. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to help you resolve these problems.
Checking Proximity Sensor Functionality
The proximity sensor is a small sensor located near the earpiece of your phone that detects when the phone is close to your face. This sensor is designed to automatically turn off the screen during calls to prevent accidental touches and conserve battery life.
However, if the proximity sensor is malfunctioning or obstructed, it can cause the screen to turn off even when the phone is not near your face. This can happen if the sensor is dirty, damaged, or covered by a screen protector.
To troubleshoot proximity sensor issues, try cleaning the sensor with a soft, dry cloth. Make sure that there are no obstructions, such as a screen protector or case, that could be blocking the sensor. You can also try testing the proximity sensor using a diagnostic app or by making a test call and observing whether the screen turns off when you move your hand close to the sensor.
Addressing Power Saving Mode
Power saving mode is a feature that’s designed to extend your device’s battery life by reducing its performance and limiting certain features. One of the ways it accomplishes this is by aggressively managing the screen timeout settings, often setting it to a shorter duration than your preferred setting.
If you’re experiencing issues with your screen turning off during calls, check to see if power saving mode is enabled. If it is, try disabling it to see if that resolves the problem. You can usually find the power saving mode settings in the Battery section of your device’s Settings app.
Managing App Permissions
Some apps may request permissions that allow them to control your screen timeout settings. If you’ve granted such permissions to a problematic app, it could be interfering with your desired screen behavior during calls.
Review the permissions of any apps that you suspect might be causing the issue. You can usually do this in the Apps or Application Manager section of your device’s Settings app. Look for apps that have permissions related to screen management or system settings, and revoke those permissions if necessary.
Advanced Techniques
If the basic methods haven’t solved the problem, there are some advanced techniques that might work. These methods can require a bit more technical knowledge.
Using Developer Options (Android)
Android’s Developer Options offer a range of advanced settings that can be used to customize the behavior of your device. One such setting is the “Stay Awake” option, which keeps the screen on whenever your device is charging.
To enable Developer Options, go to Settings > About phone (or About tablet) and tap on the “Build number” seven times. You’ll then see a message indicating that you’re now a developer. Go back to the main Settings menu, and you should see a new “Developer Options” section.
In Developer Options, look for the “Stay Awake” option and enable it. This will keep your screen on whenever your device is plugged in, which can be useful if you’re frequently on calls while your device is charging. However, keep in mind that this will also prevent your screen from turning off even when you’re not using your device, which can drain your battery more quickly.
Rooting (Android) And Advanced Customization
For advanced users, rooting your Android device provides the highest level of control over its system settings. Rooting allows you to access and modify system files that are normally inaccessible, giving you the ability to customize virtually every aspect of your device’s behavior.
With root access, you can use third-party apps or custom scripts to completely disable the screen timeout feature, or to create highly customized rules for managing screen behavior during calls. However, rooting your device can also void your warranty and make your device more vulnerable to security threats, so it’s important to proceed with caution and to thoroughly research the process before attempting it.
Rooting is generally not recommended for novice users, as it requires a good understanding of Android system architecture and the potential risks involved.
Conclusion
Preventing your screen from turning off during calls is often a matter of adjusting your device’s display timeout settings or utilizing third-party apps. By understanding the underlying mechanisms and following the troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smoother and more productive calling experience. Remember to consider the potential impact on battery life and security when making changes to your device’s settings, and always prioritize your privacy and security when installing third-party apps. Experiment with different approaches to find the solution that works best for your needs and calling habits. Understanding the interplay between power saving and display settings is crucial. Ultimately, the goal is to create a balance that maximizes convenience without sacrificing battery life or compromising your device’s security.
Why Does My Screen Turn Off During Calls, Even When I’m Actively Talking?
Your screen turning off during a call, even when you’re talking, is often due to the proximity sensor not functioning correctly. This sensor is designed to detect when the phone is near your face during a call, and automatically turn off the screen to prevent accidental touches. If the sensor is malfunctioning, it may trigger the screen to turn off prematurely, even when it isn’t near your face.
Another common reason could be incorrect settings within your phone’s operating system. Some power-saving features or display settings might be interfering with the intended behavior during calls. Checking your phone’s settings for screen timeout or proximity sensor settings could reveal the root cause of the problem and provide a solution.
How Can I Test If My Proximity Sensor Is Working Correctly?
Most smartphones have built-in diagnostic tools or third-party apps that can test the functionality of the proximity sensor. These tools will typically display a value that changes when you cover and uncover the sensor. If the value doesn’t change, or if it remains constant, it suggests that the sensor might be faulty.
You can also test the sensor by making a call and placing your hand near the top of the screen, where the sensor is usually located. If the screen doesn’t turn off when you cover the sensor, or if it flickers erratically, this is another strong indication that the proximity sensor is not working as intended and might require cleaning or repair.
What Are Some Common Fixes For A Malfunctioning Proximity Sensor?
One of the first steps you should take is to clean the area around the proximity sensor. Dust, dirt, or screen protectors can sometimes obstruct the sensor and cause it to malfunction. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the area. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, try restarting your phone. A simple reboot can often fix temporary software glitches that might be interfering with the sensor’s operation. If the problem persists after restarting, consider checking for software updates, as updates often include bug fixes that can address sensor-related issues.
How Do Power-saving Modes Affect Screen Behavior During Calls?
Power-saving modes are designed to extend battery life by limiting background activity and dimming the screen. In some cases, these modes can also aggressively manage the screen timeout settings, potentially causing the screen to turn off more quickly during calls than intended. This is especially true if the power-saving mode is configured with a very short screen timeout duration.
To prevent this, you can try disabling the power-saving mode during calls or adjusting the screen timeout settings within the power-saving mode configuration. This allows you to balance battery conservation with maintaining screen visibility during important conversations. Alternatively, you can create an exception for the phone app so the power-saving mode doesn’t affect it.
Are There Any Accessibility Settings That Could Be Causing The Screen To Turn Off During Calls?
Some accessibility settings designed for users with visual impairments can inadvertently affect screen behavior during calls. For example, settings that dim or turn off the screen after a period of inactivity might be triggered during a call, even if you are actively engaged in the conversation.
Review your phone’s accessibility settings and look for options related to screen dimming, auto-brightness, or screen timeout. Disabling or adjusting these settings might prevent the screen from turning off unexpectedly during calls. Also, check if there are any accidental touch prevention settings that might be too sensitive.
Can A Screen Protector Interfere With The Proximity Sensor?
Yes, a poorly applied or incompatible screen protector can definitely interfere with the proximity sensor. If the screen protector is too thick, covers the sensor area, or has air bubbles or imperfections around the sensor, it can block the sensor’s ability to accurately detect proximity.
Ensure that your screen protector is specifically designed for your phone model and that it has a cutout or is transparent in the area of the proximity sensor. If you suspect that your screen protector is the cause, try removing it temporarily to see if the problem resolves. If it does, you may need to replace the screen protector with a more compatible one.
What If None Of These Solutions Work? Is It A Hardware Issue?
If you’ve tried all the software-based solutions, such as cleaning the sensor area, restarting your phone, updating your software, and adjusting your settings, and the screen still turns off during calls, it’s highly likely that you’re dealing with a hardware issue. This could indicate a faulty proximity sensor, a damaged connection, or a problem with the phone’s motherboard.
In such cases, the best course of action is to contact the phone manufacturer or a qualified repair technician. They can diagnose the hardware problem and provide the necessary repairs or replacements. Attempting to repair the phone yourself might void the warranty or cause further damage, so professional assistance is recommended.