If every time you call someone your phone does weird things because the screen stays on and you end up hanging on by the cheek or accidentally opening appsThe proximity sensor is almost certainly the culprit. It's one of those tiny components we don't pay any attention to... until it fails.
The good news is that most problems can be mitigated by tweaking a few settings, trying out a few apps, and checking simple things like your case or tempered glass screen protector. This guide explains it clearly and step by step. Everything you can do to fix when the screen doesn't turn off when you call and how to recalibrate or reset the proximity sensor on different Android phones, with special attention to Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO.
What is a proximity sensor and what is it actually used for?
The proximity sensor of a smartphone consists, in most models, of a emitter and an infrared light receiverThe emitter sends out IR rays, these bounce off nearby objects (like your face) and the receiver interprets how much light returns to calculate the approximate distance to the phone.
Its mission is very specific: when you bring the mobile phone to your ear during a call, the system understands that You no longer need to look at the screen and it turns off automatically.This prevents your face from accidentally pressing buttons, hanging up, activating the keyboard, or switching to another app. It also reduces battery consumption and device overheating while you're on a call.
Although each brand and model implements it in its own way, the proximity sensor is usually located in the top front of the phone, next to the earpiece speakerIn phones with very thin bezels or edge-to-edge displays, such as Samsung's Galaxy S21 family, this sensor can be completely hidden under the glass, integrated within the panel.
Not all phones use the same type of sensor. Some have optical sensors (the classic infrared ones)Others use ultrasonic sensors, and many brands have started using "virtual" proximity sensors, which rely on software and the device's movement to detect when you bring it close to your face. These last ones are, in practice, the ones that usually cause the most headaches. If you need more information on how recognize and repair sensor faultsIn some articles you will find detailed guides.
Why doesn't the screen turn off when you make a call?
When the sensor is working properly, when you initiate or receive a call, as soon as you bring the phone to your ear, the screen turns off and stays that way until you separate itIf that doesn't happen, or if it turns off and on erratically, one of these causes is usually behind it:
- Dirt or grease on the sensor (makeup residue, dust, pocket lint, etc.).
- Poorly placed case or tempered glass that cover or obstruct the sensor area.
- Misconfigured software or gesture settings, such as pocket mode or gestures to answer calls.
- Software errors after an update from the system or the phone app.
- Proximity sensor miscalibration or failure in the “virtual sensor”.
- Physical damages on the screen or in the upper area of ​​the terminal (bumps, breaks, moisture).
In some cases, certain customization layers add features that, while seemingly useful, end up being intrusive. For example, some phones have a gesture for hold the phone to your ear and answer automaticallyThis feature sometimes causes the system to not handle the panel shutdown properly during the call.
Reset all Android sensors to "unlock" the proximity sensor
Android doesn't offer a direct button to reset only the proximity sensor, but it does allow something very similar: Turn off all the phone's sensors and turn them back on.In practice, this is equivalent to giving them a small "reset" that often solves specific problems.
The process involves activating the developer optionsIt is valid on most Android phones, regardless of the brand or system version, as long as the manufacturer has not removed this specific function from the quick settings.
The steps, in summary, are as follows: first you must go to the phone settings and enter the device information sectionThere you will see information such as the model, Android version, and other technical details.
Within this screen you need to locate the field called "Build number" or similar. Tap it repeatedly until the system displays a message indicating that developer options have been enabled. You may be prompted for your PIN, pattern, or password before being granted permission.
Once you have activated that extra menu, return to the main settings screen and enter the section “System” or “Additional Settings”where the new "Developer options" section now appears. Access it and use the internal search function or scroll through the list until you find the function called "Sensors disabled" or something similar.
Activating this switch enables a button in the quick settings (the panel you pull down from the top of the screen) with the same name; it's similar to a hidden option that disables sensors which temporarily disables proximity detection and other sensors.
At that point you'll notice your phone behaving strangely: automatic rotation won't work, some apps will lose access to certain data, and of course, The proximity sensor is also turned off.Wait a few seconds and tap the button again to reactivate the sensors. This on/off cycle forces an internal "reset" that often corrects detection problems during calls or when listening to WhatsApp voice notes.
Gesture settings, pocket mode, and screen settings
In many customization layers, within the settings you will find sections dedicated to gestures and movement functionsThere are usually options there such as answering automatically when you bring the phone to your ear, silencing calls when you turn the phone over, or lifting the phone to turn on the screen.
These types of gestures rely on the device's sensors. When something isn't working correctly, it's advisable to disable them as a test. For example, if you have the gesture of “bring it to your ear to answer calls”Temporarily disable it and check if from that moment on the screen turns off correctly when you put the phone to your ear.
In some models, especially from Chinese brands like Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO, there is also the so-called pocket modeThis function prevents the screen from activating or responding to touches when the phone is inside a pocket or bag, preventing unintentional taps.
This pocket mode is usually found in the Settings app, within the section “Lock screen and password” and then “Advanced settings”Although the exact name may vary. If you notice strange panel behavior during calls, try toggling Pocket Mode on and off, making several test calls with the option in each state, until you see which configuration works best for you.
Specific problems in Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO mobiles
In recent years, some Xiaomi models have been particularly talked about by users because persistent failures with the proximity sensorSo much so that in the summer of 2021 the brand opened an official investigation to gather information.
That research asked users about when the sensor failed, how often, and which calling app they used and other details. The goal was to identify patterns and locate the most affected models. The conclusion was that the problem was more common in devices with a virtual proximity sensor.
Among the models mentioned were, for example, Mi 10T, Mi 10T Pro, Mi 10T Lite, Mi Note 10 Lite, Redmi Note 10 and Redmi Note 10 ProIn all of these phones, the sensor is virtual, whereas the traditional optical type tends to be less troublesome. If you have one of these phones (or a similar one) and the screen doesn't turn off properly during calls or voice notes, you should try all the solutions in this article. It may also be helpful to consult [the relevant resources/resources/etc.]. tools for viewing hardware information If you want to know more technical details.
Calibrate the proximity sensor on Android using apps
When the sensor isn't responding as it should, one of the first things you can do is Check if it is properly calibrated and, if not, recalibrate it.For this purpose, there are several applications on Google Play for diagnosing and calibrating the proximity sensor.
The idea is very simple: first you use a test app to Check if the sensor correctly detects when we cover and uncover the top of the screenIf you notice erratic readings, delays, or that it never changes state, you'll know there's a problem.
Then you can use specific tools such as apps for “Reset proximity sensor”These methods restore the phone's operating parameters to their factory settings. In many cases, this is enough to get the phone working normally again during calls. You can review a selection of the best diagnostic apps to get started.
It should be noted that if, after resetting and calibrating the sensor, the fault persists exactly the same, it is quite likely that the origin is hardware-related: a damaged sensor, a faulty solder joint, or a physical problem in the panel areaIn that scenario, there's little more you can do with the software, and the most sensible thing to do is to contact technical support.
Calibrate the proximity sensor with secret codes
Some Android phones include hidden diagnostic menus that are accessed with secret codes marked in the phone appThese menus allow you to test sensors and hardware components, and even recalibrate them.
One of the best-known codes is * # * # * # * # 0588If your phone is compatible, selecting this option will open a proximity sensor test menu, often called "proximity sensor test" or "proximity sensor test." There you can see how the sensor reacts when you cover it with your hand and when you leave it uncovered.
From that same menu, some models offer an option to “proximity sensor calibration”which performs an automatic calibration. After it's complete, it's a good idea to restart the phone and make several test calls to see if the behavior has improved.
You should know, however, that this code It doesn't work on most modern mobile phonesIts compatibility is limited to certain chipsets and older versions of Android. If nothing opens, don't worry, you still have other options.
According to the brand, diagnostic access methods vary. For example, on mobile devices Samsung You can mark * # 0 * # In the phone app, open a complete test menu. There's usually a "Sensor" section where you can view the "Proximity Sensor" data; if you want a practical guide for the Self-diagnosis of your SamsungThere are step-by-step tutorials that show this process.
In the case of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCOThe most common way is through the CIT menu. You can access it from Settings > About phone > All specifications and tap repeatedly on “Kernel version”, or enter the code * # * # * # * # 6484 in the phone app. There you'll see a numbered list of tests; look for the item 22 “Proximity sensor test” or equivalent.
Within that test, a number is displayed that changes between two values, typically from five to zeroDepending on whether the sensor is covered or uncovered, place your hand over the top of the phone, where you usually rest your ear, and check how the reading changes. If everything is working correctly, the reading will change quickly and smoothly.
On some Xiaomi devices with certain MIUI versions, you can find the option to [access it] from that same CIT menu. calibrate the proximity sensor automaticallyAfter running it and restarting, the behavior often improves significantly.
Activate, deactivate, and recalibrate the proximity sensor in MIUI
In addition to the diagnostic menu, certain versions of MIUI allow activate or deactivate the proximity sensor via software from within the call settings themselves. This option was available in MIUI 12.0.4 and earlier, but disappeared in MIUI 12.5 and later versions on many models.
If your phone still includes it, you can follow a similar path to this: open the Go to "Settings" in the system and then to "Applications"Inside, select “System application settings” and then “Call settings”.
At that point you should see the "Incoming call settings" section, where the option to activate or deactivate the proximity sensor During calls, it's best to disable it briefly, exit the call, wait a few seconds, and then re-enable it. This gentle "off and on" often helps it function correctly again.
Other tests: phone apps and call types
Sometimes the problem isn't so much with the hardware as with the application itself that manages the calls. Many layers include a own phone app, with specific integration with the system, but you can try alternatives to see if the failure occurs.
A common option is to install the app “Google Phone” and use it as the default for a few days. If, with this app, the screen turns off and on correctly when you hold the phone to your ear and then away from it, you'll know the problem is with the original calling app.
You can also experiment with other types of communication: calls via WhatsApp, Telegram or Skype And pay attention to how the screen behaves when you bring the phone close to your face. If it works fine in some apps and not in others, the problem is probably with the software and not the physical sensor.
System updates, restarts, and restoration
It's quite common for a sensor to start malfunctioning after a system update or an update to an important appSometimes it's a temporary bug that the manufacturer fixes in the next version, other times it's a one-off conflict with files from the previous installation.
That's why it's a good idea to periodically go into the phone's settings, to the section “System” or “System updates” and check for pending updates. If you find an update, make sure you have sufficient battery (at least 50%) and a recent backup, and apply it.
Similarly, if you haven't restarted your phone in a while, a A simple restart can clear errors in memory. that are affecting the proximity sensor. You can do this with the usual method (press and hold the power button and choose “Restart”) or, if the phone is locked, by forcing a restart by holding the power button for about 10 seconds.
If after trying everything above the problem persists, there is always the radical option of restore your phone to factory settingsBefore you start, make sure to back up your data: contacts, photos, chats, documents… You can set up a backup from Settings > System > Backup and restore (or similar).
Next, go to Settings > System > Reset and choose "Factory data reset"This will completely erase the device's contents and restore the software to its factory settings, just as it was the day you first turned it on. If the problem was purely software-related, the sensor should normally function properly again after the restoration.
Check for physical damage: screen, dirt, case, and screen protector.
Although we often think only about settings and apps, we mustn't forget that the proximity sensor is a physical component. If the The screen is broken, cracked, or badly damaged right in the area where the sensor is located.It is very likely that this is interfering with its operation.
Carefully examine the top of the panel, near the earpiece speaker. Any cracks, chips, or opaque areas can cause the sensor to receive the wrong amount of light. It doesn't detect well if something is approaching or moving away.In these cases, the only real solution is to replace the screen at a technical service.
Another key point is cleanliness. Our phones are always with us, so it's normal for them to get covered in dirt and grime. dust, dirt, grease, and even makeup residueIf dirt accumulates on the sensor area, it may "think" there is always something in front of it and keep the screen off, or the exact opposite.
To clean it safely, use a soft chamois (like the kind used for cleaning glasses) and, if necessary, a small amount of isopropyl alcoholIt evaporates quickly and leaves no residue. Avoid corrosive products or papers that could scratch the screen.
Please also check the tempered glass or screen protector that you have installed. Many screen protectors have specific cutouts to leave the front camera and sensors unobstructed. If yours is incorrectly installed, partially covering the openings, it can block or distort the proximity sensor reading.
As for phone cases, they are increasingly becoming large and bulky, especially those that offer extensive edge protection. Some can even reach... slightly invade the upper front area and cover the sensorTry using your phone for a few days without a case: if the problem suddenly disappears, you've identified the culprit.
Temporary solutions: speaker and headphones
While you're looking for the real cause of the problem, you might need an emergency solution to to be able to talk on the phone without hanging up or accidentally opening thingsTwo simple alternatives are to use the hands-free speakerphone or to use headphones.
If you activate the speakerphone during callsYou don't need to hold your phone to your ear, so the proximity sensor is hardly used. Similarly, if you use wired or Bluetooth headphones, you can leave your phone on the table or in your hand without bringing it close to your face, thus avoiding interaction with the screen.
These are not definitive solutions They're not the most discreet, especially on the street or in public places, but they can get you out of a bind while you're doing tests or waiting for an appointment with the technical service.
When should you contact technical support and what should you keep in mind?
if after Try recalibrating, checking settings, cleaning the sensor, changing phone apps, updating the system, and even restoring your phone. The problem persists; the fault is most likely physical.
In that case, it is advisable to contact the official technical service of your manufacturer or with the store where you bought the device. They will be able to open the phone, check the condition of the screen, the sensor module, and the internal connections, and replace the defective part if necessary.
Before sending it, carefully review your warranty conditions. If the phone It has not suffered any hard knocks, sudden falls, or water damage.And if you're still within the coverage period, the repair is usually included at no cost. However, if the phone has been damaged by water or shows clear signs of misuse, the repair may be at your expense.
The proximity sensor module itself is not usually an excessively expensive part, but sometimes It is integrated with the screen or with other components.which makes the repair more expensive. At that point, it's worth considering whether it's worth repairing or if it makes more sense to save up for a new device.
In many cases, before offering you a repair, official support may suggest some additional testing or specific software updatesIt's also a good idea to ask your questions in the brand's official forums, where technicians and other users share experiences and solutions that you may not have tried yet.
When the mobile phone screen doesn't turn off during calls, the user experience becomes a real nuisance, but there's almost always room for maneuver: by checking settings like gestures and pocket mode, Restarting and recalibrating the sensor using hidden menus or test apps, cleaning and repositioning screen protectors and casesBy trying different phone apps and updating the system, you should be able to get the proximity sensor working again; only if, after all that, it continues to fail, is it time to use the warranty and let the technical service take care of the problem. Share this information so more people can troubleshoot proximity sensor issues.