There has been a problem with my mom’s phone recently. In fact, she told me recently that her phone isn’t working properly and when she makes a call, her screen turns off during the call. This article outlines the steps I took to repair her phone.
If your phone screen turns off during calls and doesn’t turn back on, it can be very frustrating. You can’t end the call, use the keypad, or switch to speaker easily. This problem is common on Android phones and is usually related to the proximity sensor or software settings—not a damaged screen.
I personally faced this issue where the screen stayed black even after moving the phone away from my ear. After checking sensor settings and cleaning the screen area, the issue was fixed without visiting a service center.
In this article, I’ll explain why phone screens turn off during calls and share practical fixes that actually work.
How This Problem Usually Appears
You may notice:
- Screen goes black during calls
- Screen doesn’t wake up after call
- Power button doesn’t turn screen on
- Call continues but screen stays off
- Happens mostly during voice calls
These symptoms usually indicate a proximity sensor issue.
Common Reasons Screen Turns Off During Calls
1. Proximity Sensor Covered or Dirty
Dust, fingerprints, or screen protectors block the sensor.
2. Faulty Screen Protector or Case
Thick or poorly aligned protectors interfere with the sensor.
3. Proximity Sensor Calibration Issues
Sensor may not detect distance correctly.
4. Software Bugs After Updates
Updates can temporarily affect sensor behavior.
5. Third-Party Call or Utility Apps
Some apps interfere with call screen behavior.
Fixes That Actually Work
Method 1: Clean the Proximity Sensor Area
This was the fix that worked for me.
What to do:
- Locate the sensor (near the front camera/earpiece)
- Clean gently with a microfiber cloth
- Remove oil, dust, or smudges
- Test calls again
A blocked sensor can’t detect distance properly.
Method 2: Remove Screen Protector Temporarily
Many screen protectors cause this issue.
- Remove the screen protector
- Make a test call
- If fixed, use a thinner or sensor-friendly protector
Method 3: Restart the Phone
Restarting clears temporary sensor glitches.
Always try this before advanced fixes.
Method 4: Disable Pocket Mode / Accidental Touch Protection
Some phones include this feature.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Display
- Disable Pocket mode or Accidental touch protection
- Restart phone
This prevents the screen from staying off unnecessarily.
Method 5: Check Call App Settings
Call app settings may affect screen behavior.
- Open Phone app settings
- Reset call settings if available
- Disable call-related overlays
Method 6: Test in Safe Mode
Safe mode disables third-party apps.
What this tells you:
- If issue disappears in safe mode, an app is causing it
- Uninstall recently installed apps (especially call/utility apps)
Method 7: Update Phone Software
Sensor bugs are often fixed via updates.
- Go to Settings → Software update
- Install pending updates
- Restart phone
Why Screen Turns Off but Doesn’t Turn Back On
This happens because:
- Proximity sensor stays blocked
- Sensor calibration fails
- Screen protector interferes
- Software bug freezes sensor state
Fixing the sensor usually solves it.
What You Should Avoid
- Covering sensor with tape or stickers
- Using very thick or dark screen protectors
- Assuming screen damage immediately
- Factory reset without trying simple fixes
These delay the real solution.
FAQs
Is this a screen problem?
No, it’s usually a proximity sensor issue.
Does restarting really help?
Yes, for temporary sensor glitches.
Can updates cause this?
Yes, but updates usually fix it later.
Should I replace the sensor?
Only if software fixes fail.
Final Thoughts
If your phone screen turns off during calls and won’t turn back on, the issue is usually caused by a blocked or misbehaving proximity sensor—not screen damage.
From my experience, cleaning the sensor area and removing the screen protector fixed the issue instantly. Always try simple sensor fixes before visiting a service center.
Vaishnav Singh is the founder and primary author of TechHary.com. Based in Mumbai, he brings hands-on professional experience to his writing, having worked extensively as a Windows expert within the IT industry. His practical background in solving complex technical issues fuels his passion for creating clear, helpful, and relevant content. At TechHary.com, Vaishnav dedicates himself to publishing in-depth articles, guides, and insights aimed at demystifying technology for enthusiasts and professionals alike. His mission is to build a trusted resource where readers can find reliable information to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape.