If the proximity sensor on your RealMe 16 is not working during calls, the screen may stay on when you hold the phone to your ear. This often leads to accidental taps, muted calls, or unwanted app openings. The issue is usually caused by software settings, sensor obstruction, or calibration problems, and most fixes are simple once you know where to look.
Why the Proximity Sensor on Your RealMe 16 Is Not Working
- Dirt, dust, or a screen protector is blocking the sensor area.
- The proximity sensor feature is disabled in system settings.
- A temporary software bug is affecting sensor behavior.
- Third party apps are interfering with call functions.
- The sensor needs recalibration after an update or system change.
1. Clean the Proximity Sensor Area
The proximity sensor sits near the front camera and earpiece, and even a thin layer of dirt can block it. Cleaning this area ensures the sensor can properly detect when the phone is near your face.
Turn off your phone, and then remove any case or cover.
Gently wipe the top front area of the screen with a clean microfiber cloth.
Make sure there is no dust, oil, or residue near the earpiece.
2. Check If the Proximity Sensor Is Enabled
Some RealMe devices allow sensor related features to be disabled, which can stop the screen from turning off during calls. Making sure the feature is enabled restores normal call behavior.
Open Settings, and then tap Additional settings.
Tap Proximity sensor or Screen off during calls, and make sure it is enabled.
Exit Settings and test the sensor during a call.
3. Remove or Test Without a Screen Protector
Thick or poorly aligned screen protectors can block the sensor. Testing without one helps confirm whether it is the cause.
Remove the screen protector, and then restart your phone.
Make a test call and place the phone near your ear.
If the screen turns off, replace the protector with a sensor friendly one.
4. Restart Your Phone
A restart refreshes system services, including sensors used during calls. This often fixes temporary bugs that appear after long uptime or app crashes.
Press and hold the Power key, and then tap Restart.
Wait for the phone to boot up completely.
Place a call and check if the screen turns off as expected.
5. Check for Interfering Apps
Call recording apps, screen overlays, or dialer replacements can interfere with sensor behavior. Identifying these apps helps restore normal functionality.
Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
Review recently installed apps, and uninstall any call or overlay related apps.
Restart your phone and test the proximity sensor again.
6. Test the Proximity Sensor Using Diagnostics
RealMe phones include hardware tests that show whether the sensor is working properly. This helps determine if the issue is software or hardware related.
Open the Phone app, and then dial the RealMe hardware test code.
Select the proximity sensor test and follow the on screen instructions.
If the sensor fails the test, professional service may be required.
If the proximity sensor on your RealMe 16 stops working during calls, the cause is usually something simple like obstruction or a disabled setting. Once cleaned, enabled, and recalibrated, the screen should turn off properly again during calls.
FAQs
Why does my RealMe 16 screen stay on during calls?
This happens when the proximity sensor cannot detect your face, often due to dirt, a screen protector, or disabled sensor settings.
Can a software update break the proximity sensor?
Yes. Some updates can temporarily affect sensor behavior, which is usually fixed by restarting the phone or recalibrating the sensor.
How do I know if my proximity sensor is physically damaged?
If the sensor fails the built in hardware test and cleaning does not help, it may be a hardware issue that requires service center repair.
