An accelerometer measures acceleration along three device-relative axes. Gravity is included, so a stationary phone should not show zero total acceleration.
Run a tilt and movement test
- Open Hardware → Accelerometer in Device Status⁺.
- Place the phone on a steady, level table and let the readings settle.
- Note the X, Y and Z values. The combined acceleration should be roughly 1 g at rest.
- Pick up the phone and slowly turn it from lying flat to standing upright. Gravity should move between the axes.
- Gently move it sideways, then stop. Look for a changing signal followed by a stable resting reading.
Keep a secure grip; dropping or striking the phone adds no useful evidence.
Read the result
Small fluctuations on a stationary phone are normal. Orientation changes redistribute gravity, while movement adds acceleration. A stable total near 1 g at rest and a repeatable response to movement are useful signs that readings are arriving.
A flat trace can also mean updates have paused. Keep the page visible, reopen it and repeat before suspecting hardware. This check does not establish laboratory accuracy or certify the phone’s repair history.
Is this the same as testing rotation?
No. Use the gyroscope test to check angular velocity. Screen rotation also depends on orientation lock and app behavior.
Ready to try it?
Device Status⁺ · Monitor and test your iPhone hardware
Free on the App Store