iOS 17.1 Beta 3: Action Button Disabled in a Pocket

In the latest Beta release of iOS 17.1, users have encountered a new issue that prevents the action button from activating the camera or flashlight when the device is in a pocket. This unexpected behavior has been reported by several users, causing inconvenience and frustration.

The Problem Explained

When iOS 17.1 Beta 3 is installed on an iPhone, users have discovered that the action button, typically used to quickly access the camera or flashlight, becomes unresponsive when the device is kept in a pocket. Previously, users could simply swipe up from the bottom of the screen or press the home button to activate the action button. However, this functionality seems to have been disabled in the latest beta release.

Upon investigating the issue, it appears that the proximity sensor, a feature designed to detect the proximity of an object near the device, may be causing this problem. When the proximity sensor is activated, it disables certain functions to prevent accidental activation of the camera or flashlight when the device is in close proximity to a user’s body. While this is a useful safety feature, it seems to be overly sensitive in the latest beta version of iOS 17.1, rendering the action button completely unresponsive even when the device is not in direct contact with the user’s body.

A Temporary Workaround

While waiting for Apple to address this issue in a future update, there is a temporary workaround that can be used. By disabling the proximity sensor, users can regain access to the action button and resume using the camera or flashlight even when the device is in a pocket.

To disable the proximity sensor, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

Step 2:

Scroll down and tap on „Accessibility“.

Step 3:

Tap on „Touch“.

Step 4:

Toggle off the switch next to „Proximity Sensor“.

Once the proximity sensor is disabled, you should be able to use the action button to activate the camera or flashlight even when your iPhone is in a pocket.

Apple’s Response

Apple has acknowledged the issue and assured users that they are working on a solution. They have recommended the temporary workaround mentioned above until the problem can be fully resolved in a future software update.

It is worth noting that beta releases, by nature, are expected to have bugs and issues that are later resolved in subsequent updates. These releases are meant to gather feedback and iron out any problems before the final public release. Therefore, it is important for users participating in beta testing to provide feedback to Apple so that they can address these issues promptly.

Closing Summary

The iOS 17.1 Beta 3 update brings an unexpected issue where the action button fails to activate the camera or flashlight when the device is in a pocket. This can be attributed to the sensitivity of the proximity sensor, which disables certain functions to prevent accidental activation. While awaiting a fix from Apple, users can disable the proximity sensor as a temporary workaround. Apple has acknowledged the problem and is actively working on a resolution. As always, it is crucial for beta testers to provide feedback to assist in identifying and resolving such issues before the final release.