The proximity sensor on the OnePlus 13 plays an important role during phone calls. It detects when the phone is near your face and turns off the screen to prevent accidental touches. If the sensor stops working, the screen may stay on during calls, which can lead to accidental taps, muted microphones, or dropped calls.
This issue often happens because of sensor blockage, incorrect settings, or temporary software glitches. Thankfully, a few quick checks usually restore normal behavior.
Why Your OnePlus 13 Proximity Sensor Is Not Working
- Dirt, dust, or a screen protector covering the sensor.
- A thick or poorly aligned phone case blocking the sensor area.
- Temporary system glitches after a software update.
- Third-party apps interfering with call functions.
- Sensor calibration problems within the system.
Check for Dirt or Obstructions Around the Sensor
The proximity sensor sits near the top of the display, close to the front camera. If dust, oil, or debris blocks it, the phone cannot detect when it is near your face.
Inspect the top edge of the screen carefully. Wipe the area with a soft microfiber cloth.
Remove any screen protector or case that might be covering the sensor area. Make a test call afterward and check if the screen turns off normally.
Remove Thick or Misaligned Screen Protectors
Some screen protectors can interfere with sensors if they are not aligned correctly. This is especially common with thick tempered glass protectors.
Check if your screen protector overlaps the top bezel area. If it does, remove it temporarily to test the sensor.
Place a call and bring the phone close to your face. If the screen turns off properly, the protector was blocking the sensor.
Restart the Phone
A simple restart can resolve temporary glitches affecting hardware sensors. The system reloads core services, including those responsible for managing the proximity sensor.
Press and hold the Power button until the power menu appears. Tap Restart and allow the phone to reboot.
Once the device powers back on, make a test call and check if the screen behaves normally.
Check for System Updates
Software updates often contain fixes for sensor behavior and call related bugs. Installing the latest update can restore normal functionality.
Open Settings, and then tap About device. Tap Software update, and then check for available updates.
Download and install the update if one is available. After installation, restart the phone and test the sensor during a call.
Test the Sensor Using Hardware Diagnostics
The OnePlus diagnostic menu can help verify if the proximity sensor is working properly. This test helps determine whether the issue is hardware related.
Open the Phone app, and then dial *#808#. Navigate to the hardware testing menu and select the proximity sensor test.
Follow the instructions on the screen. Move your hand near the sensor and see if the values change.
Reset App Preferences
Some apps with screen control features may interfere with call behavior. Resetting app preferences restores default permissions without deleting your data.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps. Tap the three dot menu and select Reset app preferences.
Confirm the reset and restart the phone. Test the sensor again during a call.
A malfunctioning proximity sensor can make phone calls frustrating, but most problems come from simple causes like blocked sensors or temporary software glitches. Once the sensor area is clear and the system is refreshed, your OnePlus 13 should automatically turn off the screen during calls again.
FAQs
Where is the proximity sensor located on the OnePlus 13?
The proximity sensor is located near the top of the display, close to the front camera. It detects when the phone is near your face during calls.
Can a screen protector cause the proximity sensor to stop working?
Yes. Thick or poorly aligned screen protectors can block the sensor area, preventing it from detecting proximity correctly.
How do I know if my proximity sensor is damaged?
You can test the sensor through the phone’s hardware diagnostics menu. If the sensor value does not change when you move your hand over it, the sensor may be faulty.
