iPhone Screen Won't Rotate? Check Rotation Lock First

Guide 3b · Screen

Turn the phone sideways and nothing happens? Usually it's the rotation lock or the app. Here's how to check.

Works on: Every iPhone.

Step 1: Turn Off Portrait Orientation Lock

1. Open Control Center. On Face ID models, swipe down from the top-right corner. On Home button models, swipe up from the bottom.
2. Find the lock with a circle arrow around it. If it's red, tap it so it turns gray.
3. Close Control Center and turn the phone sideways.

Don't see the button? In Control Center, tap the + in the top corner, tap Add a Control, and search for Orientation Lock.

Step 2: Try An App That Rotates

Some apps, and most Home Screens, stay upright. Open Calculator or Safari and turn the phone sideways.

Step 3: Restart The Phone

Turn it off and on, then try again.

Step 4: Test The Motion Sensor

1. Open the Measure app and tap Level.
2. Tilt the phone. The numbers should change as you move it.

Numbers don't move, even after a restart? The motion sensor may have a hardware problem. I can check it.

Source: Rotate the screen on your iPhone, Access Control Center on your iPhone (Apple Support, checked Oct 18, 2026).

Franchitti's Fix LLC is an independent repair shop, not affiliated with Apple.