iPad Locks Itself While in Use

Brand new iPad Air 5 is will randomly return to the Lock Screen while I’m in the middle of using it.


There seems to be no pattern. Sometimes it will happen several times in 30 minutes; other times I’ll use the iPad for over an hour with no issues.


It will lock regardless of orientation. There are no magnets or other devices nearby, and I have no peripherals connected, not even an Apple Pencil.


I have seen a few other reports of this issue but no solutions other than to suggest it has something to do with the iPad detecting a case closing over the screen.


Curious if anyone has a solution for this issue other than turning auto-lock off entirely.


Running OS version 17.5.1.

iPad Air, iPadOS 17

Posted on May 26, 2024 6:24 PM

Reply
1 reply

May 27, 2024 5:51 AM in response to nath32

First, if you have purchased a device directly from Apple, in most countries/regions you have up to 14-days within which to unconditionally return the item for exchange or refund. If applicable and you have any concerns whatsoever, you would be well advised to take advantage of the opportunity while you can. Upon expiry of 14-days, any issues will be handled under warranty.


If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.




If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

iPad Locks Itself While in Use

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