Is your iPad screen refusing to rotate no matter how you turn the device? Don’t worry, this is a common issue, and in most cases, it’s something you can fix quickly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through several practical steps to get your iPad screen rotating properly again. Whether it’s a setting, software issue, or something more technical, we’ll help you understand what to do and when to turn to the professionals.
Check Orientation Lock First
If your iPad screen is stuck, the most common culprit is the Rotation Lock feature. It’s handy when you want to fix your screen in either landscape or portrait mode, but it’s often enabled by accident.
To check:
- Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Centre.
- Tap the rotation lock icon (it looks like a padlock with a circular arrow).
- Make sure it’s off.
Force a Restart
Still no luck? Your iPad may be frozen. Performing a hard reset can refresh the system and often resolves minor software glitches.
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For iPads with a home button: Press and hold the Home and Power buttons together until the screen turns off and the Apple logo appears.
- For iPads without a home button: Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, followed by pressing and holding the Power button until you see the Apple logo.
Older iPad Models – Use the Side Switch
If you’re using an older model like an iPad Air 1, iPad Mini 3 or earlier, your device might have a physical side switch above the volume buttons. This can be configured to lock screen rotation or mute your device.
To check:
- Go to Settings > General > Use Side Switch To.
- Make sure it's not set to control rotation lock.
- Alternatively, try flipping the switch and look for the rotation lock icon appearing on-screen.
Try Rotating in a Different App
Not all apps support rotation. If your iPad won’t rotate in a particular app, try switching to Safari or Messages, which do support landscape mode.
To test this:
- Go to the home screen and try rotating your device.
- Open a known-rotatable app like Safari.
- If the screen rotates there, it’s the app that’s the issue, not your iPad.
iPad Screen Still Won’t Rotate? Other Checks
If none of the above has worked, here are more possible causes:
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Software is outdated: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates.
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Background apps: Restart your iPad to clear any conflicting processes.
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Touching the screen while rotating: This can lock the orientation. Try rotating the iPad while holding only the edges.
- Check for Display Zoom (on iPhone models): On devices like the iPhone 8 Plus, Display Zoom can stop the home screen from rotating. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > View > Standard.
Is It a Hardware Issue?
If your screen still isn’t rotating even after trying all of the above, the issue could lie with the accelerometer, which detects device movement. If this is faulty, your iPad won’t register orientation changes.
This is where we come in.
Let Imfixed Handle It
At Imfixed, we specialise in resolving iPad issues, from screen rotation faults to full screen replacements. Our team has years of experience in tech repair, serving customers across the UK and locally in Greater Manchester.
You can post your iPad to us, visit us in-store, or even use our call-out and local collection service. Whatever suits you best, we’ll ensure your iPad is repaired quickly and professionally.
After inspecting your device, our technicians carry out a full diagnostic and provide a thorough fix using high-quality parts. We’ll have your iPad rotating properly again in no time.
So if your iPad screen won’t rotate and you’ve tried everything, don’t risk it getting worse, get in touch with us today.
📞 Call us: 01204 520520
📧 Email: info@imfixed.co.uk
📍 Visit us: 101 Tonge Moor Road, Bolton, Greater Manchester, BL2 2DL
FAQs
How long does it take to repair an iPad?
Depending on the damage, it can take anywhere from 1 hour to 7 days.
Can I post my iPad to you?
Absolutely, just make sure it’s securely packaged. We’ll handle the rest.
The screen is half cracked and half black, can you fix just part of it?
Unfortunately, no. The full screen needs to be replaced to ensure proper functionality.
Want More?
- Learn more about our iPad repairs
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