How do I unlock my iPhone after iOS 18.5 update when screen won't wake up?

Question

How do I unlock my iPhone after iOS 18.5 update when screen won't wake up?

I installed the iOS 18.5 update on 5/16/25. Since then, each time my phone dims during the always on timeframe, I can’t unlock my phone. I’m a quad amputee so I rely on using my touchscreen rather than using the side buttons. The touchscreen doesn’t wake the phone up in order to enter my password. Fortunately, I have someone in the home that can use those side buttons to wake the phone however, I need a solution to fix this problem. I do have the accessibility features set up on the phone, but I can’t find one that will allow me to unlock the phone or wake it up. Is there a solution that will work for me? I’ve never had a problem until this most recent update.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on May 17, 2025 3:08 PM

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Answer 1

May 17, 2025 3:44 PM in response to eileenfromwales

In Settings > Accessibility > Touch - do you have Tap to Wake turned on?

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Answer 2

May 17, 2025 8:26 PM in response to eileenfromwales

You're welcome. After you turn off all Accessibility settings, Force Restart your iPhone, then turn the ones on after you get back in your iPhone. Here's how to Force Restart --> Force restart iPhone - Apple Support

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Answer 3

May 17, 2025 8:20 PM in response to lobsterghost1

no, I tried turning that on and it didn’t do anything. It’s still not turning back on once it locks up. I’m gonna try turning off all the accessibility functions and see if it makes a difference and then turning them all back on thanks for your suggestion, though, I thought it would work. I’ll keep troubleshooting and maybe someone else has another suggestion. I appreciate your thought.

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Answer 4

May 26, 2025 4:59 AM in response to eileenfromwales

Since the update, I am having this issue as well and my touchscreen will only turn on and work every 8 to 10 restarts and then will only stay working until the phone turns itself back off. I only know of one accessibility setting that I have on and I can turn that off if I can ever get back into it, but this update is turned my phone into a brick. Please help. I have a 12 pro. I’m a single dad and we only have my daughter’s phone to use and no way to communicate between us until resolved.

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Answer 5

May 17, 2025 7:10 PM in response to eileenfromwales

I’ll check that setting to see if it’s included in everything I’ve set up. Thanks for replying.

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How do I unlock my iPhone after iOS 18.5 update when screen won't wake up?

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