How Do You Lock the Touchscreen on an iPhone?
How Do You Lock the Touchscreen on an iPhone?
3 Answers

Trying to keep your iPhone touch screen locked? Let\’s break it down and go through a few methods that can get this done—whether you\’re dealing with pocket dials or simply want to keep your phone secure when you lend it out.
So, why would you want to lock your screen? Well, there are a bunch of reasons. Maybe you’re tired of pocket dials dialing someone while your phone\’s in your jeans. Or you’re big on privacy and like that peace of mind. Not to mention, a lockdown can deter thieves if you lose your phone.
Now, onto the practical stuff—here’s how you can lock your screen:
- That Fancy Side Button: You know that trusty side button? Just a simple tap and your screen is off. Sure, it’s the fastest and simplest way, but you might want to go easy on it to avoid wearing it out.
- Auto-Lock Setting: This one\’s cool because it automates the process. Go to your settings, find “Display & Brightness,” and tap on “Auto-Lock.” You can pick how long you want your phone to hang before it nods off on its own. Times range from 30 seconds to never. Though, never say never—it\’s generally best for your battery to set an interval.
- AssistiveTouch Button: For those who dig accessibility features, this one’s for you. You can create a floating virtual button that acts as your lock switch. Just head to “Accessibility” settings, enable AssistiveTouch, and you’re set. Plus, it’s a lifesaver if your side button\’s acting up.
- Find My iPhone for Emergencies: Picture this: you\’ve misplaced your phone or it\’s gone AWOL. Not to worry! Use “Find My iPhone” either from another device or online, and boom—activate Lost Mode. This isn’t just a lock; it\’s a fortress.
- Feature Restrictions: We’re talking keeping intruders out of Today View or Control Center when your phone’s locked. Under Face ID & Passcode settings, you’ll see the option to block this type of access.
If you hit a few bumps along the way, like Auto-Lock not kicking in, maybe check if you’re in Low Power Mode. Lost Mode not working? Perhaps it’s time for an Apple ID status check. And for all those accidental calls, look at the “Lock During Calls” option under Accessibility.
Make sure you’ve got your security game on too—use Face ID or Touch ID for quick access. The “Erase Data” feature after a bunch of failed attempts is your last-ditch defense. And a SIM pin can halt any funny business with your card.
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all here. You’ve got different tools for different scenarios. Whether it’s shielding from snoopers or just keeping your battery in check, it’s all about finding that balance that keeps you happy. So, dive into those settings and make your iPhone work for you!

Want to lock your iPhone’s touchscreen so it doesn’t act up when handed to curious little ones or even during a jog? Here’s how you can do it with Guided Access:
- Fire Up Guided Access:
- Jump into Settings on your iPhone.
- Head over to Accessibility, and look for Guided Access—it’s in the General section.
- Flip the Guided Access switch to on.
- Tap on Passcode Settings and get yourself a passcode. You’ll need it to end the session.
- Kickstart a Session:
- Open the app you want to lock the screen on.
- Give the Home button a triple click (or the Side button if there ain’t no Home button) to get things rolling.
- If you want, circle any spots on the screen you want to shut off. Perfect for keeping certain areas safe from touch.
- Tap Start to trigger the magic.
- Wrap It Up:
- Hit that Home or Side button three times.
- Punch in your passcode.
- Tap End, and you’re back to normal.
Honestly, it’s a lifesaver for keeping those random touches in check when you hand the phone over to your kids or just need some uninterrupted time. This trick is straight from the folks at Apple Support, so you know it’s legit.

So, you\’re wondering how to lock your iPhone\’s touchscreen. Well, here\’s the deal: there\’s this nifty feature called Guided Access that essentially lets you block out all the unnecessary stuff on your screen while you stick to one app. Perfect for when you\’re handing your phone to your kid or if you just want some extra focus. Let me walk you through how to get it set up.
Getting Set Up with Guided Access:
- Turn It On:
First off, hop into your Settings. Scroll your way down to Accessibility. You\’ll spot Guided Access somewhere in there—flip that switch on. You might want to tap Passcode Settings and set a passcode or turn on Face ID/Touch ID to keep it easy-breezy to exit later.
- Kickstart a Session:
Open the app you want to hang out in. Then, it depends on your iPhone model:
- If you\’ve got an iPhone 8 or older, give the Home button three taps.
- If you\’re rocking an iPhone X or newer, give the Side button a triple tap.
If you want to block certain screen areas from touchy fingers, circle the parts to ignore. Or leave it all touchable if that’s the plan.
- Extra Tweaks (Only if You Want):
Go ahead and triple-click the Home or Side button again, punch in your passcode, and play around with the Guided Access Options. Maybe turn off the hardware buttons or set a timer for how long the session should last. Once you\’re satisfied, hit Done.
- Calling It a Day:
When you\’re ready to call it quits, just hit the Home or Side button thrice again, enter your passcode or use your face/finger magic, and tap End at the top left. You\’re free to roam now!
Guided Access is amazing for staying on task or making sure your phone doesn\’t accidentally become a playground for someone else. It’s a favorite hack recommended by Apple\’s own crew and lots of folks over at places like Cult of Mac and Apple Discussions.
Hope that helps keep things under control on your iPhone!