The functionality that automatically disables the touchscreen during calls when the device is held to the ear relies on a component designed to detect nearby objects. This mechanism prevents accidental screen interactions. In certain situations, such as hardware malfunction or software conflicts, this sensor may exhibit erratic behavior, leading to unintended screen blackouts or unresponsive touch input. This can significantly impair device usability.
Disabling this object detection feature can be advantageous in scenarios where the sensor’s performance is unreliable or when alternative methods of screen management are preferred. For users experiencing persistent issues with the sensor, deactivation can offer a temporary workaround, restoring consistent touchscreen functionality. Historically, user-developed software modifications were often the only means to control this feature, but more recent operating system versions offer varying degrees of native control.