News
iPad orientation lock becomes mute switch in iOS 4.2
By Charles Starrett
Contributing Editor
Published: Wednesday, September 15, 2010
News Categories: iPad
Apple has made a change in the behavior of the iPad’s hardware under iOS 4.2, repurposing the device’s right-side orientation lock switch as a mute/unmute switch. Users of the updated software can now lock the device’s screen orientation via a software button in the far left pane of the Multitasking drawer, where it sits alongside audio playback controls and a brightness adjustment slider, similar to the layout of options in iOS 4.0 and 4.1 for the iPhone and iPod touch. Notably, the feature change is present in the first beta version of iOS 4.2, but could be reversed by the time of the update’s public release. Apple originally touted the iPad’s right side switch as a mute/unmute toggle, but changed its functionality to a screen orientation lock prior to the device’s release.
Related Stories
- Apps: ABC Aquarium, Disney Jr. Appisodes, Pinterest 2.4 + Pocket Informant Pro 3.0
- Report: iOS 7 could see Flickr, Vimeo integration
- Google Play Music All Access to get iOS app support?
- AT&T: All video chat apps will work over cellular in 2013
- Report: BBM iOS app won’t support iPad at launch
- Apps: Can Knockdown 3, eBay 3.0/2.3, Jungle Book + Sonic the Hedgehog 2.0
Comments
If you have a comment, news tip, advertising inquiry, or coverage request, a question about iPods/iPhones/iPad or accessories, or if you sell or market iPod/iPhone/iPad products or services, read iLounge's Comments + Questions policies before posting, and fully identify yourself if you do. We will delete comments containing advertising, astroturfing, trolling, personal attacks, offensive language, or other objectionable content, then ban and/or publicly identify violators.
Recent News
- OtterBox acquires LifeProof
- LifeProof debuts Frē case for iPad mini
- Logitech debuts Wired Keyboard for iPad
- New Apple online store design alters focus, hides deals
- Apps: ABC Aquarium, Disney Jr. Appisodes, Pinterest 2.4 + Pocket Informant Pro 3.0
- Report: iOS 7 could see Flickr, Vimeo integration
- Apple CEO Cook testifies on taxes, faces Senate critics
- Google Play Music All Access to get iOS app support?
- Senate subcommittee accuses Apple of tax avoidance
- AT&T: All video chat apps will work over cellular in 2013
Recent Reviews
- HMDX Jam Plus Bluetooth Wireless Speaker
- Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity & Sleep Wristband
- Cambridge Audio Minx Air 100 + 200 Bluetooth + AirPlay Wireless Speakers
- Mophie Juice Pack Plus for iPhone 5
- Ultimate Ears UE Boom
- Trü Protection Trü-Fit Anti-Glare Film Set
- New Trent iCarrier IMP120D Dual USB Power Pack
- BlueFlame 2M Charge and Sync Cable with Lightning Connector
- HMDX Jam Party Bluetooth Wireless Stereo Speaker
- Logitech Harmony Ultimate Universal Remote Control
Recent Articles
- Inability to use Find My Friends without a passcode
- Calendar info disappears after iCloud restore
- Remove old iCloud backup after restoring to a new iPhone
- Setting up a ringtone in iTunes
- Using a Wi-Fi hard drive with an iPad
- Backing up and restoring an iPod classic
- Can’t restore iPod touch without passcode
- Retaining older versions of Apps during an iOS Restore
- Can’t eject iPod nano without closing Firefox
- Can’t change iTunes Apple ID to iCloud e-mail address
1
Really wish/hope Apple makes this a configurable setting instead of forcing it on everyone. I have little use for a mute switch… I like the hardware orientation switch.
Posted by BrennerM on September 15, 2010 at 2:06 PM (PST)
2
I always prefer choice, but I am the opposite. I like the change - but would like to make everyone happy with a choice.
Posted by sb on September 15, 2010 at 4:09 PM (PST)
3
I use that lock switch a couple hundred times a day, it seems. Will get VERY annoying if it goes software based. Why have a mute switch when there’s a very quick “Hold volume down till it goes to silent” option?
Apple REALLY needs to make this a user-configurable option. I would actually not upgrade to OS 4.1 because of this. Empty threat, I know, but its true.
Posted by Daniel S. on September 15, 2010 at 5:11 PM (PST)
4
This is stupid. They already have the hold volume button down to mute feature. I don’t want to lose my orientation lock switch for mute!
Posted by Dick Bacon on September 15, 2010 at 5:48 PM (PST)
5
Aaargh!
Posted by Galley in Greenville, SC on September 16, 2010 at 4:45 AM (PST)
6
Chill out guys. It’s a beta. Regressions happen. I’m sure there are other interface elements that they are still flushing out as well, but major functionality they need for devs to be testing their apps and provide feedback should be there. Remember how Game Center was absent from 4.0? This is why the iPad is taking a little longer to get on iOS4. (Maybe I’m an apologist. Or maybe I get it and you don’t.
Fact is, I’m free to have and share my opinion)
Posted by Lycestra on September 16, 2010 at 7:37 PM (PST)