IR sensor stays on when iPhone 16 display is off

I have recently noticed that an IR sensor stays on throughout even when my display is turned off. Also I have every possible settings turned off like attention awareness, face I’d, raise to wake etc. yet it remains same. I don’t know the reason but all I know is it serves no purpose to be on when the display is off. Please enlighten me!

[Edited by Moderator]

Original Title: iPhone 16 IR Sensor

iPhone 16

Posted on Oct 11, 2025 12:17 PM

Top-ranking reply

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

60,890 points

Posted on Oct 13, 2025 9:30 PM

There is no documentation that the IR sensor can be turned off at all. Here is some information Apple has provided:

iPhone and iPad Pro and the TrueDepth camera system have been thoroughly tested and meet international safety standards. The TrueDepth camera system is safe to use under normal usage conditions. The system will not cause any harm to eyes or skin, due to its low output.
When viewed through certain types of cameras, you might notice light output from the TrueDepth camera. This is expected as some cameras might detect infrared light. Some might also notice a faint light output from the TrueDepth camera when viewed in a very dark room. This is expected in extremely dark settings.

About Face ID advanced technology - Apple Support

The same question has been brought up before such as this one from 4 years ago. The comments then are basically the same that can be found here, as only Apple can answer "why" questions if they choose to do so. Apple has already made the statement that there is no concern from a safety standpoint.

Constant Infrared flashing - Apple Community

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34 replies

Dn777 Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 12, 2025 10:14 AM in response to Mac Jim ID

I never said it makes any difference to y’all. Also I know they have trade secrets but let’s see what they have to talk about this.

Dn777 Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 12, 2025 10:19 AM in response to Chattanoogan

Yeah you did share your experience and it says that what I’m experiencing is not the same as you do.

Dn777 Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 12, 2025 10:24 AM in response to Jeff Donald

Surely I will try to dig my way in to know about this. Peace.

Dn777 Author

Level 1

5 points

Oct 13, 2025 9:48 PM in response to Mac Jim ID

Okay let’s for a moment assume that the IR emitter can’t be turned off entirely. So at least state the function it does (when display is off) even when I turn off all its related settings.

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IR sensor stays on when iPhone 16 display is off