Why can't I get StandBy to work on my iPhone 16?

I have never been able to get Standby to work on any phone. I plug the phone in, lock it, and put it on its side. Nothing happens. What am I doing wrong? Thank you.



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 16, iOS 18

Posted on Mar 14, 2025 6:14 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 14, 2025 7:12 PM

It sounds like you've set up StandBy correctly, but here are a few things to check:

  1. Make Sure StandBy is Enabled – Go to Settings > StandBy and ensure it's turned on.
  2. Use a Compatible Charger – StandBy requires the phone to be charging, so make sure you're using a certified MagSafe, Qi, or wired charger.
  3. Check for Motion Detection Issues – StandBy might not activate if the phone isn't detecting its orientation correctly. Try adjusting the angle or using a stand.
  4. Try a Different Surface – Some users report that certain surfaces or cases interfere with StandBy triggering properly.
  5. Restart Your iPhone – A simple restart can sometimes resolve glitches.
  6. Check for Software Updates – Ensure you're running the latest iOS version under Settings > General > Software Update.

If none of these work, you might want to try resetting your settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings) as a last resort. Hope this helps!

6 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 14, 2025 7:12 PM in response to TheLittles

It sounds like you've set up StandBy correctly, but here are a few things to check:

  1. Make Sure StandBy is Enabled – Go to Settings > StandBy and ensure it's turned on.
  2. Use a Compatible Charger – StandBy requires the phone to be charging, so make sure you're using a certified MagSafe, Qi, or wired charger.
  3. Check for Motion Detection Issues – StandBy might not activate if the phone isn't detecting its orientation correctly. Try adjusting the angle or using a stand.
  4. Try a Different Surface – Some users report that certain surfaces or cases interfere with StandBy triggering properly.
  5. Restart Your iPhone – A simple restart can sometimes resolve glitches.
  6. Check for Software Updates – Ensure you're running the latest iOS version under Settings > General > Software Update.

If none of these work, you might want to try resetting your settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings) as a last resort. Hope this helps!

Mar 14, 2025 6:59 PM in response to mitsguy2001

"Why can't I get StandBy to work on my iPhone 16?: I have never been able to get Standby to work on any phone. I plug the phone in, lock it, and put it on its side. Nothing happens. What am I doing wrong? Thank you."

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StandBy not Working:

Overviewed this Link Yet?: Use StandBy to View Information at a Distance while iPhone is Charging - Apple Support


See also

Change when iPhone automatically locks. You can set how long it takes iPhone to automatically lock.

Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock, then choose a length of time.

Mar 15, 2025 10:55 AM in response to mitsguy2001

If I play with it enough it works. Seems totally random. Seems it’s mostly k my worth it if you use wireless charging. But I have been told it’s better to charge with a cable.

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Charging Wired vs. Wireless?:

It’s all preferential. But it all comes down to the need of use. Wired charging is more liable. And the same goes for when using a modem or router. Connecting is more trustworthy, and connections keep with it —I always leave my Mac plugged in when in use or it needs a bit of a charge while not in use. And I always charge my iPhone with my cable —but leave it plugged in when charging and when performing risky tasks that may result in data loss or booting issues, like downloads and installing updates, respectively. So, IMO hardwired is best.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Why can't I get StandBy to work on my iPhone 16?

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