Maps GPS screen going dark while driving

Hello everyone,


Is that annoying just a little. Is a software update responsible for this? I have version iOS 18.6.2 installed.


Anyone else has experience this? Otherwise, I have to hold my phone in my hand while driving. Not safe!


Thanks!


-Ron

iPhone 12

Posted on Sep 10, 2025 01:40 PM

Reply
18 replies

Sep 12, 2025 08:06 AM in response to SSL-ADT

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...



Sep 12, 2025 09:28 AM in response to SSL-ADT

SSL-ADT wrote:

Hello everyone,

Is that annoying just a little. Is a software update responsible for this? I have version iOS 18.6.2 installed.

Anyone else has experience this? Otherwise, I have to hold my phone in my hand while driving. Not safe!

Thanks!

-Ron

Are you on Wifi or using Cellular data when using maps while driving? I imagine the screen is going dark at the predetermined time you have set for how long your screen stays lit in Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock.

Sep 12, 2025 09:41 AM in response to SSL-ADT

SSL-ADT wrote:

Cellular Data.

Auto-Lock was set to 5 minutes when I experienced the blackouts. I have since changed it to NEVER as suggested online and by AppleCare.

But, because I have not yet being on the road (long distance), I do not know if the phenomenon has changed or not.

No one but you to my knowledge has asked about this. Since you're using Cellular Data, your app and iPhone have been doing what you set it up to do, which is for the screen to go dark after 5 minutes. If you set the screen to Never, it should remain lit. But you'll want to either change the setting back or remember to tap the side power button once to lock your screen when you arrive at your destination.

Sep 12, 2025 11:17 AM in response to KiltedTim

KiltedTim wrote:

Is your phone connected to power when this happens?

In my experience, if you're actively navigating and the phone is connected to power with the maps app in the foreground, it will not go into standby. If it is not connected to power, the screen will go dark until shortly before the next instruction is given.

I think you are correct in that the phone needs to at a minimum be plugged into a USB outlet to provide power to the phone.

Sep 12, 2025 12:03 PM in response to KiltedTim

Oh, that makes a lot of sense... Good point!


But, I always connect the phone in my vehicle when using the Maps app. That's the first thing I checked, to see if the battery icon showed the lightning icon. When I arrived home on a 1 1/2 hour drive, the battery was at 98%. And I had been away for about 4 hours on a business trip.


Could the Maps app somewhat failing to recognize the charging??

Maps GPS screen going dark while driving

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