Auto rotate is a feature on smartphones and tablets that matches the screen’s orientation with the device’s actual orientation. It uses the gyroscope to detect if a device is used vertically or horizontally, and changes the display setting to either portrait or landscape mode accordingly. For example, when browsing YouTube on a smartphone, it’s often done in portrait mode, and when played rotated to landscape to accommodate the video’s aspect ratio of 16:9.

When auto rotate is disabled, it’s known as orientation lock, which ensures the device remains in either portrait or landscape mode regardless of the phone’s actual position. This setting is often used when the phone’s gyroscope information causes auto rotate to incorrectly position the screen. For example, a person laying on their side may have the screen appear horizontal when they intend it to be vertical.

Enabling auto rotate on Android

To enable auto rotate on an Android smartphone or tablet, follow these steps.

  • Open the Quick Settings menu by swiping down from the top of the screen.
  • Find the icon displaying your screen’s current orientation.
  • Press the orientation icon once to enable auto rotate.
  • Close the Quick Settings menu by swiping up from the bottom of the menu.

Enabling auto rotate on iPad or iPhone

To enable auto rotate on an iPhone or iPad, follow these steps.

  • Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right corner (iPhone X and newer) or up from the bottom of the screen (iPhone 8 or older).
  • Locate the Portrait Orientation Lock icon.
  • Make sure Portrait Orientation Lock is disabled by pressing the icon.
  • Close the Control Center by swiping the opposite way you opened it.

iOS, Landscape, Phone terms, Portrait, Rotate

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