How To Fix The ‘Flash Is Disabled’ iPhone Error

Posted in TILs by Tyrone on October 18, 2018

iPhone 'Flash is disabled' Camera error

iPhone ‘Flash is disabled’ Camera error.

If you browse this article you’ve obviously just been prompted with the “Flash is Disabled” prompt while opening the stock iOS Camera app. The text of the notification informs you that “The iPhone needs to cool down before you can use the flash.” It actually means what it says. You either exposed your iPhone to the sun for a prolonged period of time, or you performed some demanding tasks, that caused the device to overheat.

As a protective measure the Flash, a heat generating source, has been temporarily disabled to allow the iPhone to cool down. So, simply bring it into the shadow or let it “rest”, in a temperature friendly environment, without playing resource demanding games or multitasking. Be aware, that wireless charging can also heat-up your iOS device, especially if the iPhone is loading up in a hot environment caused by excessive summer temperatures, for example.

Fact: The ‘Flash is Disabled’ Camera error has been reported both on new iPhone models as well as on older devices. We’ve seen it on the iPhone XS and X as well as on the iPhone 8. The print-screen uploaded nearby has been snapped in my car, at 9am, after the device was stored in the vehicle for 30 minutes. Outside temperatures 94 degrees Fahrenheit (around 35 degrees Celsius), in the car it was most likely even hotter.

Important: Do not use ice or any other unconventional methods, like inserting the device in the fridge for a few minutes. Drastic temperature changes can do more harm then good. Switching from a hot environment to a freezing one could cause condensation in your iPhone which in worst case scenarios can lead to a short circuit or any other severe damage.

Related: Notice, that the Flashlight icon is also greyed out in the Control Center! It will become available when the iPhone returns to normal functioning temperatures. However, if the Flashlight is disabled, but the Flash in the Camera apps works normally, please tap here for the fix.

Tip: Do you know that you can turn off the iPhone’s flashlight with a swipe? Here is how to do it!

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