iPhone X portrait mode is not working

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I'm having an issue with the Portrait mode on my iPhone X. I used to take photos in Portrait mode, but recently it stopped working with the rear-facing camera. It still works in 'selfie' mode with the front-facing camera. I've restarted my phone many times and made sure it's fully up to date. I've also reset my phone multiple times, but Portrait mode is still not working with the rear camera. Does anyone know how to fix this issue or have any suggestions?
 
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If Portrait mode on your iPhone X's rear-facing camera has stopped working, despite restarting, updating, and resetting your phone, you can try the following steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:

Troubleshooting Steps​

  1. Clean the Camera Lens:
    • Make sure the camera lens is clean and free from any dirt, dust, or smudges. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the lens.
  2. Remove the Case:
    • If you’re using a case, remove it and try using Portrait mode again. Sometimes cases can obstruct the camera or interfere with the depth sensors.
  3. Check for Depth Sensor Obstructions:
    • Ensure nothing is obstructing the depth sensors around the camera. The depth sensors are crucial for Portrait mode to function properly.
  4. Reset All Settings:
    • Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t delete your data, but it will reset system settings like Wi-Fi passwords and wallpapers, which can sometimes fix issues.
  5. Test in Safe Mode:
    • Although iOS doesn’t have a “Safe Mode” like other operating systems, you can test your phone in a minimal state by turning off Background App Refresh. Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and toggle it off.
  6. Check Lighting Conditions:
    • Portrait mode requires good lighting to work effectively. Ensure you are in a well-lit environment when trying to use Portrait mode.
  7. Force Close Camera App:
    • Double-click the Home button or swipe up from the bottom of the screen (depending on your iPhone model) to see all open apps.
    • Swipe up on the Camera app to force close it.
    • Reopen the Camera app and try Portrait mode again.
Let me now if it worked.
 
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If Portrait mode isn't working with your iPhone X's rear camera, start by cleaning the rear camera lens to remove any smudges or obstructions. Make sure you're in good lighting, as Portrait mode requires sufficient light to function. Ensure you're trying it on the right subject (usually a person), as the camera may not trigger Portrait mode if it doesn't detect a subject. You can also try resetting all settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings) to clear any potential software glitches. Check that Portrait mode is enabled in the camera settings, and consider using third-party apps like Halide or Camera+ 2 if needed. If none of these solutions work, it might be a hardware issue, and visiting an Apple Store for a checkup would be a good next step.
 
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If you go to camera settings try turning all settings especially Preserve Settings OFF before you try Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. If that doesn't help then yes, try Reset All settings. It will remove all of your custom Folders, Preference Settings, Bluetooth and Network Settings, Dock items and return you Home Screens to Alphabetical order with Native apps on the first screen, so a bit like a new iPhone but it may be your only option.
Having said that it is now ~8 years old so you have done well to keep it in fully functioning order till now.
 
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If none of the above helps and it's a big issue for you then your only remaining option is a new iPhone. Might I suggest the iPhone 16e as a replacement. I previously had an iPhone 13 Pro Max but earlier this year I traded it in via Apple for the 16e and I am VERY happy with it. At the time I got 50% of the price of the 16e for my iPhone 13 Pro Max effectively making it half price but even without a trade in the base price it still pretty good for a full featured current model iPhone.
 

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