Trouble with Apple iPhone XR Swipe-Up? Try These 11 Solutions

Part 1: Why Is My iPhone Screen Not Swiping?

The iPhone’s swipe-up gesture serves as a fundamental navigation tool. It allows users to access various functions and features swiftly. Yet, when this functionality encounters issues, it can be perplexing and disruptive. That’s why learning the reasons behind I can’t swipe up on my iPhone is essential. Summarized below are some of the common reasons behind frozen swipe-up issues:

1. Software Glitches

Updates or software bugs can occasionally interfere with the swipe-up gesture. It leads to unresponsiveness or delays.

2. Touch Screen Calibration

Sometimes, the touch screen may need recalibration. This can cause the swipe-up feature to become unresponsive.

3. Physical Damage

Physical damage, like heavy falls, can impact the phone’s touch sensitivity. Moreover, it affects swipe gestures as a result.

4. Full Memory or Background Apps

Insufficient memory or many background apps running simultaneously can overload the Apple iPhone XR device. This leads to performance issues, including unresponsive gestures.

5. Water Exposure

Sudden exposure to moisture or water damage can also cause the screen to malfunction. This can cause the screen to become unresponsive, leading to swipe-up issues.

Part 2: 11 Ways To Fix iPhone Swipe up Not Working

Encountering an unresponsive swipe-up gesture on your Apple iPhone XR can be exasperating. However, you no longer need to worry. There are numerous troubleshooting techniques available to address this problem. Explained below are the 11 effective ways to address the problem:

Fix 1. Fix iOS System Error Without Data Loss: Dr.Fone – System Repair (iOS)

Wondershare Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) is a reliable solution designed to resolve iOS system issues. It also includes unresponsive gestures like the swipe-up problem on iPhones. This tool specializes in repairing iOS system errors without causing data loss. It offers a comprehensive solution for resolving iOS system issues conveniently from home. With this tool, you can address over 150 iOS system problems.

Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS)

Repair iOS System Errors Without data loss.

• Only fix your iOS to normal, no data loss at all.
• Fix various iOS system issues stuck in recovery mode , white Apple logo , black screen , looping on start, etc.
• Downgrade iOS without iTunes at all.
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
• Fully compatible with the latest iOS version.

3981454 people have downloaded it

These include the Apple logo, boot loop, and the 1110 error, among others. It enables you to downgrade or update iOS versions without needing to jailbreak your device. Additionally, it allows you to enter or exit DFU and Recovery Mode at no cost.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This user-friendly iOS system repair solution doesn’t typically lead to data loss.
2. It doesn’t require users to have advanced technical skills to operate it.
3. Wondershare Dr.Fone is compatible with all iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch models, regardless of the iOS version.

Steps to Fix iPhone Swipe up Not Working via Wondershare Dr.Fone

Here’s how to use Wondershare Dr.Fone to address the swipe-up not working on iPhone problem:

Step 1: Initiate System Repair with Dr.Fone

After successfully downloading Dr.Fone on your device, navigate towards the left side panel and click “Toolbox.” From the many options appearing on the main window, select “System Repair.” Then, establish a connection between your iOS and your current device.

Step 2: Opt for iOS Restoration and Enable Recovery Mode

Select the Apple iPhone XR device type from the available options and select “iPhone.” From the new window, select “iOS Repair,” and following that, select “Standard Repair.” Now, follow the instructions available and enable recovery mode for your iOS.

Step 3: Select iOS Firmware to Initiate the Repair Process

After that, you’ll reach a window showing different iOS firmware alternatives. Pick any as per your preferences and click “Download.” Once the download is complete, click “Repair Now” and “Done” to end the repair process.

Fix 2. Force Restart iPhone

Performing a force restart, also known as a hard reset, can troubleshoot minor software glitches. These can cause unresponsive swipe-up issues on your Apple iPhone XR. Here’s a guide on how to perform a force restart on various iDevice models to fix the iPhone won’t swipe up:

For iPhone 8 and Later Devices

Instructions: Begin by moving your finger towards the left side of your Apple iPhone XR and tap on the “Volume Up.” Then, release the button after some points. Proceed similarly with the “Volume Down” button. Then, navigate towards the right side and press the “Side” button there. Keep on forcing the “Side” button up until the screen shows the Apple logo. This will indicate that a force restart is initiated.

For iPhone 7 Series

Instructions: Begin by reaching both sides of your Apple iPhone XR at once. Press the “Volume Down” button situated on the left side using your left hand while simultaneously using your right hand to press the “Sleep/Wake” button on the right side. Stay firm with the grip on both buttons and release them when you see the signature Apple logo glowing on the screen. This will indicate that the force restart operation has been successful.

For iPhone 6 and Older Devices

Instructions: To restart your Apple iPhone XR 6, press the “Wake/Sleep” button on the top edge of the phone. Hold the other “Home” button at the bottom center screen of the phone. Continue holding the buttons until the Apple logo becomes visible on the display. Then, press the “Wake/Sleep” button and the “Home” button.

Fix 3. Remove the Cover or Case

Sometimes, an unresponsive swipe-up gesture on your Apple iPhone XR could be due to interference caused by a protective cover or case. The cover might be too thick, improperly aligned, or interfering with the touch sensitivity of the screen. Gently remove the protective cover or case from your Apple iPhone XR. Inspect the screen for any dust, debris, or smudges while the cover is removed. Utilize a clean, soft cloth to wipe the screen.

Fix 4. Clean iPhone Screen or Remove Screen Protector

An unresponsive swipe-up gesture on your Apple iPhone XR might be due to dirt, smudges, or interference caused by a screen protector. Power off your Apple iPhone XR to prevent accidental taps during the cleaning process. Carefully clean the screen by softly rubbing it with a fresh and dry microfiber cloth. In addition, ensure the cloth is soft and free from any debris that might scratch the screen.

Fix 5. Activate Control Center Access on the Lock Screen

If your Apple iPhone XR swipe-up gesture isn’t working specifically on the lock screen to access the Control Center, it might be due to settings restricting its accessibility. Enabling Control Center access on the lock screen allows you to swipe up from the bottom edge. Follow these steps to ensure Control Center access is enabled on the lock screen and fix the iPhone swipe up not working:

Step 1. On your iOS device, access the “Settings” app and launch it. Now scroll down to find and tap “Face ID & Passcode.”

Step 2. Head to the “Allow Access When Locked” section, toggle on the “Control Center” switch, then return to the lock screen to verify if the problem has been resolved.

Fix 6. Enable Control Center Within Apps

Are you experiencing issues with accessing the Control Center via the swipe-up gesture while using certain apps? If yes, ensuring that Control Center access is enabled within apps is essential. It ensures that the swipe-up gesture from the bottom edge of the screen functions. Here’s how to enable Control Center access within apps:

Instructions: Navigate to Settings on your Apple iPhone XR and access “Control Center.” On the following screen, activate the toggle next to “Access Within Apps.” It will allow you to access the Control Center when using apps.

Fix 7. Update to the Latest iOS Version

Running an outdated iOS version can sometimes lead to various software issues. These include unresponsive gestures like the swipe-up function on your Apple iPhone XR. Updating your device to the latest iOS version can often resolve such problems. Here’s how to check for and update your Apple iPhone XR to the latest iOS version:

Step 1. Unlock your Apple iPhone XR and open the “Settings” app to access “General” settings. Simply touch the “Software Update” option to verify if an update is accessible.

Step 2. If an update is available, press the “Update Now” button to commence the updating process. During the process, make sure to follow the prompts carefully to avoid issues.

Fix 8. Turn Off VoiceOver

VoiceOver is an accessibility feature on iPhones. It assists users with visual impairments by providing spoken feedback for actions on the Apple iPhone XR device. Sometimes, VoiceOver settings can interfere with normal touchscreen gestures like the swipe-up function. Here’s how to turn off VoiceOver to resolve iPhone 13 won’t swipe up to unlock:

Step 1. You will need to open the Settings app and scroll down to select the “Accessibility” menu. There, tap “VoiceOver” to get access to the “VoiceOver” settings.

Step 2. On the following screen, toggle off the “VoiceOver” switch if it is enabled. Afterward, check if the swipe-up gesture issue is resolved.

Fix 9. Customize Touch Accommodations

Touch Accommodations is an accessibility feature on iPhones. It is designed to modify touch sensitivity and enhance touchscreen interactions for users. Customizing these settings might resolve issues with unresponsive gestures like the swipe-up function. Here’s how to customize Touch Accommodations to fix the Apple iPhone XR 12 won’t swipe up to unlock:

Step 1. Move to the “Accessibility” settings of your Apple iPhone XR and select “Touch.” On the following screen, scroll down and tap “Touch Accommodations.”

Step 2. Now, first, enable the “Touch Accommodation” option from the top of the next screen. Then, scroll down and set the “Tap Assistance” option to “Use Initial Touch Location.”

Fix 10. Turn Off Reduce Motion

Reduce Motion is an accessibility setting on iPhones designed to reduce animations and visual effects. It is particularly for users sensitive to motion effects. However, enabling this feature might affect certain gestures or animations on the Apple iPhone XR device. Thus potentially causing issues with the swipe-up function. Here’s how to turn off Reduce Motion to fix the iPhone 11 won’t swipe up to unlock:

Step 1. Go through your iOS device Settings to open the “Accessibility” tab. Here, find and tap the “Motion” option to proceed.

Step 2. Now, on the following screen, turn off the toggle next to the “Reduce Motion” option. Then, go and check if the swipe-up gesture issue is fixed or not.

Fix 11. Reset iPhone All Settings

Resetting all settings on your Apple iPhone XR can help resolve software-related issues. It can help remove conflicts that might be affecting the swipe-up gesture. Note that this action will reset all settings on your device, but it won’t delete your data. Here’s how to reset all settings to fix iPhone swipe not working:

Step 1. Go to your device’s “General” settings and scroll down to tap the second last option, “Transfer or Reset iPhone.” On the following screen, press “Reset” from the available two options.

Step 2. Now, choose “Reset All Settings” from the pop-up options and confirm it by providing the passcode. Then, wait for a few moments as your Apple iPhone XR is restored to its original settings.

Part 3: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up

Encountering swipe not working on iPhone can sometimes lead to difficulties. This is especially the case in unlocking the Apple iPhone XR device or accessing essential functions. In such scenarios, using Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) provides a reliable solution. It bypasses the swipe-up need and regains access to your Apple iPhone XR without relying on the problematic gesture. This tool offers a solution to unlock iPhone/iPad devices without the passcode.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone/iPad Lock Screen Without Swiping Up.

• Simple, click-through, process.
• Unlock screen passwords from all iPhones and iPads.
• No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
• Supports iPhone 15 / iPhone 14 / iPhone 13 / 12, iPhone 11, … and the latest iOS version fully!

4,395,216 people have downloaded it

It allows the removal of various lock screens present on iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Additionally, it provides the capability to bypass the iCloud activation lock. Users can also bypass MDM and screen time restrictions without experiencing any data loss.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This software is compatible with the latest iOS 17 and iPadOS 17, including iPhone 15 models.
2. The unlocking process involves a simple 3-step procedure.
3. With it, you can remove Apple ID from your device without the password.

Steps To Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up via Wondershare Dr.Fone

You can use the simple steps explained below to unlock your Apple iPhone XR and fix the Apple iPhone XR 11 swipe-up not working:

Step 1: Connect Your Device and Choose Unlock iOS Screen

Upon downloading and installing Wondershare Dr.Fone onto your computer, access the “Toolbox” menu. Here, proceed to select “Screen Unlock” followed by “iOS.” Within this window, choose the “Unlock iOS Screen” option to proceed with unlocking your iOS device’s screen. Subsequently, connect your Apple iPhone XR and click Start to initiate the unlocking process.

Step 2: Ensure Your Device is in Recovery Mode

Now, adhere to the on-screen prompts provided to enter Recovery Mode based on the specific model of your iDevice. Then, the platform automatically recognizes and exhibits the Apple iPhone XR device Model. If necessary, change the model and choose the system version as per your preferences. Upon completion, click on “Start” to continue the process.

Step 3: Unlock Your iOS Device Successfully

Once the iOS firmware has been successfully downloaded, it undergoes verification. Proceed by selecting the “Unlock Now” button to initiate the unlocking process. A prompt window will emerge on the screen, requesting confirmation of the process. Enter the code and tap “Unlock” to proceed to the final step. Upon successfully unlocking the iDevice, click the “Done” button to finish the process.

Conclusion

Having trouble with swipe up not working on an iPhone can be annoying. It stops you from using important stuff and moving around your phone quickly. This guide has lots of ways to fix it. We’ve covered simple things like restarting your Apple iPhone XR and cleaning the screen, as well as more complex stuff like changing settings and using unique options for accessibility. These fixes can help make the swipe-up gesture work again.

We’ve also talked about a helpful tool called Wondershare Dr.Fone. It’s made to fix problems with the lock screen, including issues with swiping on your Apple iPhone XR. Moreover, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock lets you get into your Apple iPhone XR even when gestures aren’t working properly.

How to Unlock Apple iPhone XR, Apple’s New iPhone

It has happened to all of us at some point in the other. The chances of it happening are notoriously higher when you just started using it. We are talking of passcodes on iPhones. Apple requires setting up a 6-digit passcode to use some features such as Face ID on your Apple iPhone XR. So, you thought it was a great idea to set up your new Apple iPhone XR with a new passcode, right? The only problem is that the 6 digits you thought are bulletproof and no one will be able to come up with them in relation to you, are not coming to you either. You forgot the newly set passcode, entered the incorrect passcode more times than the software was happy about, and the Apple iPhone XR is locked now. What to do? Read on.

Part I: Why Is Your Apple iPhone XR Locked?

There can be a few reasons why your Apple iPhone XR is locked, the primary ones being that you bought a second-hand Apple iPhone XR from someone who set it up with a passcode and decided it wasn’t for them and was nonchalant enough to sell it to you without removing the passcode from the Apple iPhone XR, or that you forgot the passcode to your new Apple iPhone XR and entered it incorrectly a few times. In any case, help is at hand.

We understand how frustrating it can be when your newly purchased Apple iPhone XR does not unlock because of a passcode entry issue, and all you want to do is get the screen unlocked. At Wondershare, we strive to create meaningful differences in the lives of the people that use our software and keeping that in mind, we have a solution for you to unlock your Apple iPhone XR passcode screen using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS).

II.I Using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to Unlock the Locked Apple iPhone XR

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone/iPad Lock Screen Without Hassle.

• Simple, click-through, process.
• Unlock screen passwords from all iPhone and iPad.
• No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
• Supports iPhone XS (Max) / iPhone XR / iPhone X / 8 (Plus)/ iPhone 7(Plus)/ iPhone6s(Plus), iPhone SE and the latest iOS version fully!

4,395,217 people have downloaded it

Dr.Fone is a set of modules that make life easy for you. Any kind of problem you can think of, it is likely that Dr.Fone has a remedy for it ready in its arsenal. A locked Apple iPhone XR is no different. Here is how to use Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to unlock Apple iPhone XR passcode:

Step 1: Install Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) on your computer.

Step 2: Connect your locked Apple iPhone XR to the computer.

Step 3: Launch Dr.Fone and select the Screen Unlock module.

Step 4: Select Unlock iOS Screen.

Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to boot the Apple iPhone XR in Recovery Mode. If for some reason you are unable to boot into Recovery Mode, there are instructions at the bottom to enter DFU mode.

Step 6: Dr.Fone will tell you the phone model and the software installed on it. If it is incorrect, use the dropdown lists to select the correct information.

Click Download to download the firmware file for your device.

Step 7: Select the firmware package after the download completes. After the download completes, you can click Unlock Now to start unlocking the Apple iPhone XR.

In a short while, your Apple iPhone XR will be unlocked. It is important to note that unlocking a locked Apple iPhone XR cannot be done without wiping data.

II.II How to Unlock Apple iPhone XR with Find My (iPhone)

Find My allows you to unlock your Apple iPhone XR remotely if you want to. So, if you have forgotten the passcode and are unable to unlock your Apple iPhone XR, there is a way you can unlock it using Find My. Doing this will wipe your data from the Apple iPhone XR device and set it up as new, though. Here is how to do that:

Step 1: If you have any other Apple device that is logged in with the same Apple ID as the Apple iPhone XR, you can launch Find My on that device. Else, you can visit https://icloud.com and log into the same iCloud account/ Apple ID as the locked Apple iPhone XR.

Step 2: Under Find My (or Find My iPhone if you are using the iCloud website), select your Apple iPhone XR and click Erase iPhone and confirm.

That’s it. You will have wiped and unlocked your Apple iPhone XR and it will start with factory settings. Note that this works only if the Apple iPhone XR was connected to Find My in the first place. If not, then you always have Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to help you out.

II.III Put The Apple iPhone XR in Recovery Mode

You can unlock your Apple iPhone XR using Recovery Mode, yourself.

Step 1: Connect your Apple iPhone XR to the computer and open iTunes. If you are on a Mac that runs macOS Catalina or higher, open Finder.

Step 2: Press the volume up button and let go. Press the volume down button and let go. Press the side button (power button) and keep holding it till Finder or iTunes detects the phone in Recovery Mode.

Step 3: Select Restore to download and reinstall the latest iOS on your Apple iPhone XR and unlock Apple iPhone XR.

Part III: How to Turn Off Passcodes in Apple iPhone XR

If after reading all this and going through so much hassle to unlock the Apple iPhone XR, you feel that passcodes are not worth your time, we feel you. We designed Dr.Fone to help you be at ease and be safe with passcodes for when you forget them, but if you would rather not use passcodes at all, we understand where you’re coming from. Here is how to turn off passcodes for good on Apple iPhone XR:

Step 1: Launch Settings.

Step 2: Scroll down to Face ID and Passcode.

Step 3: Enter your passcode.

Step 4: Scroll down and select Turn Passcode Off.

Step 5: Enter your passcode one last time.

You’re done. Now go ahead and forget the passcode forever. You will not need it again. Do note, however, that not using a passcode on your Apple iPhone XR leaves not only your data but your Apple iPhone XR itself in a highly vulnerable state. Anyone with access to your device can do anything on the Apple iPhone XR device that you could, including setting up a passcode that you will then have to use this guide to unlock.

Part IV: More information about Apple iPhone XR/Apple iPhone XR mini/Apple iPhone XR Pro

The ways mentioned before should help you get out of the locked Apple iPhone XR now. Here is a shortlist of the features of the Apple iPhone XR range. You may learn more information about Apple iPhone XR range that you may never know before.

5G Capability and Dual eSIM Support

The Apple iPhone XR range builds on the Apple iPhone XR 12 range for 5G capability by supporting more bands than the Apple iPhone XR 12 lineup. 5G modems are the same across the Apple iPhone XR lineup. the Apple iPhone XR lineup supports dual eSIM for the first time ever in iPhones. You do get a physical SIM tray for one nano-SIM though, so don’t sit up.

Cinematic Mode

You might be wondering if you will get the highlight Cinematic Mode if you were to pick the cheapest of the Apple iPhone XR lineup, that is, the Apple iPhone XR mini. The answer is yes, you will. All Apple iPhone XR models support Cinematic Mode.

Water Resistance and Charging

All Apple iPhone XR models feature the same IP68 water resistance (that is a depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes) and feature MagSafe charging. No differences here, except that the Apple iPhone XR mini is still capped at 12W charging with MagSafe, just like the Apple iPhone XR 12 mini was.

Part V: The Bottom Line

A locked Apple iPhone XR is never a pretty sight. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you can do to try and unlock your Apple iPhone XR and remove the passcode from your Apple iPhone XR. There is also Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to unlock your Apple iPhone XR for you when you need help removing the passcode from your Apple iPhone XR and unlocking it.

How to Unlock Apple iPhone XR With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesn’t Work

There are plenty of reasons why Apple devices are in such high demand. The quality of the products is unquestionable – few can argue the superior quality of the Apple iPhone XR’s camera, for instance. Almost all devices are long-lasting. They have a great resale value. They offer cutting-edge features.

However, perhaps the greatest advantage of Apple products is just how well they integrate with one another and work together.

With a quick little tap, you can have your Apple iPhone XR’s camera working as your Mac’s webcam. You can use your iPad as a second Mac display. Take calls using any device.

Moreover, you might be able to use the Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XR.

Now, you cannot just unlock any Apple iPhone XR with your Watch. The devices must be paired, and you’ll need to follow a few steps to enable this option. Here’s how to unlock your phone using your Apple Watch like a pro.

Part 1. Can I Use an Apple Watch To Unlock My Apple iPhone XR?

The Apple iPhone XR face ID is one of the simplest, most practical ways to unlock your phone. While you’ll need a passcode just as another security layer, you won’t have to worry about someone else breaking in if they know it, going through your messages, or collecting your private information.

With face ID, only you can unlock your phone, sign in to your favorite apps, and even authenticate purchases.

The problem is that neither face ID nor traditional passcodes aren’t always the most convenient option. If you wear sunglasses, safety goggles, a face mask, or other face coverings and can’t take them off for some reason, face ID won’t work. If you have gloves on and can’t type in your passcode, your passcodes won’t work.

What could work is your Apple Watch.

Depending on the Apple Watch version you own and your Apple iPhone XR model, you could use your watch to unlock your phone in any circumstances. It’s easy, secure, and convenient, above all else.

Part 2. Requirements for Unlocking Apple iPhone XR With Apple Watch

Unfortunately, not every Apple iPhone XR can be unlocked with your Apple Watch, and not every Apple Watch can unlock your Apple iPhone XR. Both devices must meet some requirements before you can adjust your settings to enable this option.

To be able to use your Apple Watch to unlock your phone with the utmost ease, you’ll need:

• An Apple iPhone XR with Face ID – Apple iPhone XR X and newer models;
• iOS 14.5 and newer versions;
• An Apple Watch series 3 and newer models;
• watchOS 7.4 and newer versions.

Additional requirements you’ll need to meet include:

• Your Apple iPhone XR and Apple Watch need to be paired;
• Both devices need to have WiFi and Bluetooth turned on (but a connection to a WiFi network isn’t necessary);
• You need to have a passcode on your Apple Watch;
• Wrist detection on your watch needs to be turned on;
• The watch needs to be on your wrist and unlocked.

You’ll also need to wear items such as sunglasses, face coverings, ski masks, or others that prevent you from using your Apple iPhone XR Face ID.

Part 3. How To Unlock Apple iPhone XR With an Apple Watch

If you meet all the aforementioned criteria, setting up the feature to unlock your Apple iPhone XR using an Apple Watch is easy. You’ll just have to follow a few steps:

• Step 1: Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcodeon your Apple iPhone XR;

• Step 2: Type in your passcode;
• Step 3: Find and enable Unlock with Apple Watch.

Remember that your Apple Watch’s wrist detection must be turned on for this option to work. When you tap to enable Unlock with Apple Watch, if your wrist detection isn’t turned on, you’ll get a prompt on your phone asking you to turn it on.

You can turn on wrist detection on your watch by following these steps:

• Step 4: Go to Settingson your Apple Watch;
• Step 5: Tap on the Passcode;
• Step 6: Toggle Wrist Detection

Now that you’ve enabled the option to unlock your Apple iPhone XR using your Apple Watch, it’s time to simply start using the feature. To unlock your phone, you’ll need to:

• Have your Apple Watch on your wrist, unlocked;
• Tap on your Apple iPhone XR or raise it to your face to activate it;
• Glance at your phone while wearing a face mask, sunglasses, or another item that’s preventing you from using Face ID;
• Swipe up on your phone’s screen.

Your Apple Watch will send an alert when you’ve used it to unlock your Apple iPhone XR. If you accidentally unlock your phone, simply tap on the Lock Apple iPhone XR on the screen of your watch to lock it.

However, remember that the next time you want to use your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XR, you’ll first need to type in your passcode.

Part 4. What To Do if You Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone XR With a Watch

Generally speaking, unlocking your Apple iPhone XR with an Apple Watch should be a simple, seamless task. Unfortunately, though, that’s not always the case. A glitch or a bug could be preventing you from enjoying this feature, so take a look at a few things you could try to fix it.

1. Check All Settings & Reconfigure

As mentioned earlier, there are a few requirements that your devices need to meet to unlock your Apple iPhone XR with your Apple Watch.

If you’re using the correct versions of Apple iPhone XR (iPhone X, iOS 14.5 and newer) and Apple Watch (series 3, watchOS 7.4 and newer), try to reconfigure your settings.

Make sure that you have:

• A passcode on your watch;
• Wrist detection turned on;
• Feature Unlock with Apple Watchturned on on your Apple iPhone XR.

If all the settings are correct, try one of the following options.

2. Restart Your WiFi/Bluetooth Connection

Your Apple iPhone XR and your Apple Watch need to have both WiFi and Bluetooth turned on. If they’re turned on on both devices, try turning them off and back on again to restart the connection.

Remember, you only need WiFi and Bluetooth on but don’t need to be connected to a WiFi network.

If the problem persists, you could also restart your devices and try again.

3. Reset Your Face ID

In some instances, it’s the Face ID feature that’s causing trouble, so you might want to try and reset it. It’s much easier than it may sound, you just need to follow the next few steps:

• Step 1: Go to your Apple iPhone XR’s Settings;
• Step 2: Select Face ID & Passcode;
• Step 3: Tap Reset Face ID.

When you tap on this, you’ll need to go through the process of setting your Face ID as usual. You’ll need to type in your passcode, hold your Apple iPhone XR in front of you (in portrait orientation), tap to get started, and put your face in the provided frame.

Move your face to complete the circle, then tap on Continue. Repeat the face scan process the second time and select Done.

4. Do a System Repair on Your Apple iPhone XR

If your Apple Watch unlock is still misbehaving, you might need to do a full system repair. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to use verified apps like Dr.Fone to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Dr.Fone Apple iPhone XR system repair is designed to be fast, efficient, and safe. It can repair virtually any system glitch in less than five minutes, ensuring your phone operates seamlessly.

To perform a standard system repair with Dr.Fone, follow the next few steps:

• Step 1: Download and launch Dr.Fone on your computer;
• Step 2: From the Toolboxon your left-hand side, select System Repair;

• Step 3: Connect your Apple iPhone XR to your PC using a cable connection;
• Step 4: Select your device type in the new window that opens;
• Step 5: Select iOS repair;

• Step 6: Select Standard Repair Mode;
• Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions and select Enter Recovery Mode;
• (Alternatively, select Guideif your phone is unresponsive);
• Step 8: Select the iOS firmware you want to download and install on your device;
• Step 9: Wait for the download to finish, then select Repair Now;
• Step 10: Wait until the process is complete, then select Done.

If it was a system mistake preventing you from unlocking your Apple iPhone XR with your Apple Watch, the option should be functioning well after the Dr.Fone iOS repair.

5. Reset Network Settings

If the problem wasn’t due to a system glitch, you should try resetting your Apple iPhone XR’s network settings. The process is simple, just:

• Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network;
• Step 2: Type in your passcode.

Resetting your network settings will clear out data from your internet, local network, and devices, including WiFi passwords, some Bluetooth connections, and more. However, your paired devices, such as the Apple Watch, shouldn’t be removed.

6. Reset Your Watch and Pair It Again

Finally, if you’re still experiencing issues, you might need to reset your Apple Watch and pair it with your Apple iPhone XR again.

It’s all quite simple:

• Step 1: Press and hold the power button;
• Step 2: Drag the slider under Power offto the right;
• Step 3: Press and hold the power button to turn the Apple iPhone XR device back on.

To perform a hard reset, simultaneously press and hold the power button and digital crown.

Conclusion

Using your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XR is convenient when you cannot use the Face ID feature. It allows you to seamlessly unlock your phone when wearing sunglasses, goggles, face masks, or other face coverings that prevent the Face ID from working.

Enabling this option is a straightforward process, and if there’s ever a glitch, there are several options you could try to repair it.

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