iPhone Keeps Going to Lock Screen? Here’s How to Fix It

Is your iPhone unexpectedly locking itself while you’re using it? Whether you’re scrolling through apps, typing a message, or simply browsing, an iPhone that keeps going to the lock screen can be incredibly frustrating. 

This issue is more common than you’d think, but don’t worry! In this article, we’ll walk you through some easy and effective methods to fix this problem, ensuring your iPhone functions smoothly again. 

Why Does My iPhone Keep Going to Lock Screen?

Under normal circumstances, your iPhone is designed to lock the screen automatically after a set period of inactivity – usually 30 seconds, 1 minute, or whatever time you’ve selected in the Auto-Lock settings. This built-in feature helps conserve battery life and protect your personal data when the device is not in use.

However, while you’re actively interacting with your iPhone – whether you’re scrolling through social media, reading messages, watching videos, or tapping on the screen – the phone is not supposed to lock. If your iPhone keeps locking itself while you’re using it, that’s not normal behavior and usually signals an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Before we dive into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand some of the most common reasons why your iPhone might keep going to the lock screen unexpectedly:

• Software Glitches – Temporary bugs in iOS can interfere with screen activity detection, causing the device to lock even when you’re actively using it.
• Settings Misconfigurations – Incorrect settings related to Auto-Lock, Raise to Wake, or Low Power Mode can cause the screen to lock prematurely.  
• Faulty Apps – A misbehaving app may interfere with iOS functions, leading to system instability or unwanted screen lock behavior.  
• Battery or Performance Issues – If your iPhone is overheating, running low on power, or experiencing battery-related issues, iOS may automatically lock the screen to prevent further stress on the system.
• Hardware Problems – A malfunctioning Side button (power button) or a damaged proximity sensor could also trigger random screen locks.

Understanding these possible causes will help you better diagnose the problem and apply the right fix from the methods outlined below. Let’s get started.

Method 1: Force Reboot Your iPhone

If your iPhone keeps going to the lock screen, the first step is to restart your device. A force restart is effective in clearing any temporary bugs or minor system hiccups that might be causing your iPhone to lock itself while you’re using it. 

1. Press the volume up once quickly and let go.
2. Press the volume down once quickly and let go.
3. Press and hold the Side button. Keep holding it even when the “Side to Power Off” slider appears. 
4. Continue holding the Side button until you see the Apple logo on the screen, then release it.

This method forces your iPhone to restart, helping to clear any temporary bugs or minor system hiccups that might be causing your iPhone to lock itself while you’re using it.

Method 2: Reset All Settings

If a force restart doesn’t help and your iPhone keeps going to the lock screen, it could be related to a setting that’s been misconfigured. One of the easiest ways to rule this out is by resetting all settings on your iPhone. Don’t worry, this won’t delete your data, such as photos and apps; it will only reset system settings.

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap General.
3. Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
4. Tap Reset and select Reset All Settings.

5. Enter your passcode if prompted.
6. Tap Reset All Settings again to confirm the action.

After your iPhone reboots, check to see if the issue has been resolved. 

Method 3: Update iOS

If your iPhone still keeps going to the lock screen, it may be due to a software glitch or outdated system files. One of the most effective and straightforward solution is to update your iPhone to the latest version of iOS. Apple frequently releases updates to fix bugs, improve system stability, and enhance overall performance. By keeping your iOS up to date, you can resolve underlying software issues that may be causing your iPhone to keep locking itself. 

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap General.
3. Tap Software Update. 
4. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

Method 4: Use iSumsoft iOS Refixer

If your iPhone still keeps going to the lock screen after trying the above methods, you might want to consider using a third-party tool like iSumsoft iOS Refixer. This powerful software is specially designed to fix various iOS-related issues, including random lock screen glitches, system crashes, boot loops, and more — all without data loss. 

1. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable, then unlock your iPhone and tap Trust if prompted.
2. Download and install iSumsoft iOS Refixer on your computer, then launch the program.
3. Choose the System Repair option on the program.

4. Choose Standard Mode, which ensures that your data remains safe while repairing the system. 

5. Click Start to confirm that you want to proceed.
6. The software will detect your device model and prompt you to download the latest firmware. Click Download to begin.

7. Once the firmware is ready, click Repair to start repairing your iPhone.

8. When the repair is successful, your iPhone should function normally again and no longer lock unexpectedly during use.

Method 5: Check for Hardware Issues

If your iPhone still keeps going to the lock screen after trying previous methods, consider hardware issues. While software-related issues are the most common causes of this problem, it’s also possible that a hardware issue, such as a malfunctioning power button, could be to blame. If your iPhone’s power button is stuck or defective, it might be causing the device to lock itself unexpectedly.

1. Check if the power button feels loose or stuck.
2. If you notice any physical issues, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for assistance.

Conclusion

If your iPhone keeps going to the lock screen unexpectedly, don’t panic. There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix this issue. Start by force rebooting your device, resetting settings, or updating your iOS version. If those methods don’t work, consider using iSumsoft iOS Refixer for more advanced repairs. 

If none of these solutions resolve the problem, it could indicate a hardware issue, in which case contacting Apple Support is your best option. By following these steps, your iPhone should be functioning normally again, allowing you to enjoy a smooth user experience without constant interruptions.