Airplane mode on iPhone is a setting that turns off all wireless communication on your device, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connections. When activated, it allows you to comply with airline regulations while flying and can also help save battery life when you’re on the ground. It’s a handy feature to know how to use, and it’s pretty straightforward too.
How to Activate Airplane Mode on iPhone
Before diving into the steps, let’s briefly talk about why you might want to use airplane mode. It’s not just for when you’re up in the sky; it can also be useful when you want to charge your phone faster or when you need a break from constant notifications.
Step 1: Access the Control Center
Swipe up from the bottom of your screen (or down from the top right corner on an iPhone X or later) to open the Control Center.
The Control Center is like a handy toolbox that gives you quick access to commonly used settings and features, including airplane mode.
Step 2: Tap the Airplane Icon
Look for the airplane icon and tap it. It will turn orange, indicating that airplane mode is now on.
This icon is pretty universal, so even if you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll likely recognize it as the symbol for airplane mode.
Step 3: Confirm Airplane Mode is Activated
When airplane mode is on, you’ll see an airplane icon in the top right corner of your screen, replacing the usual signal bars.
Remember that you won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or use data once airplane mode is activated, so make sure to let your contacts know if you’re going off the grid.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your iPhone will be in airplane mode. This means you won’t be able to send or receive calls, use cellular data, or connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices. However, you can still use apps that don’t require an internet connection, listen to downloaded music, and take photos.
Tips for Using Airplane Mode on iPhone
- Tip: You can still use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in airplane mode by turning them on individually after activating airplane mode.
- Tip: Airplane mode is great for saving battery life because it turns off power-hungry wireless connections.
- Tip: If you’re not on a flight but want some peace and quiet, airplane mode can help by stopping incoming calls and notifications.
- Tip: You can schedule your iPhone to automatically enter airplane mode at certain times using the Do Not Disturb feature.
- Tip: Some games and apps work perfectly fine in airplane mode, so you can still have fun without a connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Airplane Mode on iPhone
Can I use Wi-Fi while in airplane mode?
Yes, you can turn on Wi-Fi manually even when airplane mode is activated.
Will I receive texts and calls once I turn off airplane mode?
Yes, any missed calls or texts will come through once you’re reconnected to a network.
Does GPS work in airplane mode?
GPS may still work in some apps, but without Wi-Fi or cellular data, its accuracy might be reduced.
Can I play music in airplane mode?
Absolutely, as long as the music is downloaded to your device.
Does airplane mode save battery life?
Yes, since it turns off wireless communications, it can help extend your battery life.
Summary of Activating Airplane Mode on iPhone
- Access the Control Center
- Tap the Airplane Icon
- Confirm Airplane Mode is Activated
Conclusion
Airplane mode on iPhone is a simple but effective tool that has benefits beyond just complying with airline regulations. It can help you save battery life, give you a break from an always-connected world, and even charge your phone faster. Understanding how to activate and use airplane mode is something every iPhone user should know, as it can come in handy in various situations. Plus, with the ability to still use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you’re not completely cut off from the world. So next time you’re about to take off on a flight or just need a digital detox, remember how easy it is to switch on airplane mode and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.