Apple Issue Resolution for iPhone WiFi Greyed Out Problem

19 Nov 2013 by Simon Thomas

Apple's support forums have been inundated with users complaining that they can no longer activate Wi-Fi on their Apple device. The problem, mainly affecting the older iPhone 4S, causes the setting to turn-on Wi-Fi to appear "grayed out" or dim".

Apple have now acknowledged the problem and posted a solution for those suffering from the issue. The resolution involves resetting networking settings and, if all else fails, doing a full software reset in iTunes - suggesting that it's a software problem.

Apple Official Resolution: Wi-Fi settings greyed out or dim

In rare instances, the setting to turn on Wi-Fi on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch may appear "grayed out" or dim. If this occurs, you will not be able to turn Wi-Fi on.

Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

Verify that airplane mode is off by tapping Settings > Airplane Mode.
Reset the network settings by tapping Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Note: This will reset all network settings, including Bluetooth pairing records, Wi-Fi passwords, VPN, and APN settings.
Ensure that your device is using the latest software. To do so, connect your device to your computer and check for updates in iTunes.
If your issue is still unresolved, perform a software restore in iTunes.

Some users are reporting that Apple's fix has resolved their problems, but others are claiming it hasn't done the trick. Those still suffering from the problem believe that the recent iOS 7 update has unearthed a hardware defect inherent in the iPhone 4S.

With one user on Apple's support forums adding that "The problem always existed in the device, because the device was defective, but that defect was not revealed until the HEAT that is produced as a byproduct of the update process caused the wi-fi chip to fail."

That didn't work, so what next?

Apple are advising users still unable to turn Wi-Fi on to "Contact Apple for support and service options".

Those whose device is still in warranty should be able to get their device replaced or fixed free of charge. However, if your device is outside Apple's 1 year warranty period then you may have to pay for it to be fixed, or buy a replacement model.

Those unwilling to pay could try placing their smartphone in the freezer for a few minutes inside a sealed bag, something that users on the support form claim has done the trick for them. However, you do so at your own risk and we advise users to contact Apple support before doing anything.

Have you been affected by the problem? If so let us know your expierence below.