Details on Closing Case Puts Nexus in Sleep Mode

[BruceHAZ]

I just want to find out the details about a Nexus feature where it can be put in "sleep mode" by closing an optional case.

I recently purchased a Nexus 7 (2013) LTE tablet and then obtained a folding case from the auction site. Basically the case is similar to a book where when opened, the left side is the case cover and the right side is where the Nexus is stored. The right edge contains a magnetic piece of metal and the left edge contains a piece of metal that aligns with the magnetic metal on the right side when the case is closed to keep the case shut.

I found that the Nexus goes into sleep mode when I shut the case. Actually, it goes into sleep mode just before the case is closed and before the two pieces of metal are touching. Is this an undocumented feature? I have not read anything about this. Can someone explain how it works?

I guess it is a good idea except for one thing. If I am using the Nexus and fold the cover all the way back (and the two pieces of metal are close to each other), then the Nexus will often go into sleep mode. I have to have the case spread open to some degree to keep this from happening, which can be ackward.

If I knew how this worked, then maybe I could figure out a way to keep the Nexus from going into sleep mode when I have the case folded fully back. If not, then is there some way to turn this "feature" off?

Thanks.

Edit - Sorry, but I accidently posted this in the wrong section. If a moderator could move it to the "Google Nexus 7 Tablet (2013)" forum, that would be great. I was going to delete it and repost, but I could not find a delete option. Thanks.

 

[cpaight]

Yes it's known and on purpose (here's an article when it was found on the original N7: Google's Nexus 7 discovered to have Smart Cover-like magnetic sensor)

I also have a magnetic cover on my N7 but have never had an issue with it turning off when the flap is folded behind it. I use a Poetic Slimline case.

 

[B. Diddy]

Welcome to Android Central! Smartcover sensors are standard in most tablets, and many phones. The problem is that some case manufacturers put magnets that are too strong, and can still be detected by the sensor when the lid is folded all the way back. If you can, return the case and ask for a refund, or exchange it for a different brand.

 

[BruceHAZ]

Thanks cpaight and B Diddy.

The video in the link shows the Nexus turning off when the magnet is placed on the device. What is interesting is the magnetic piece is on the right side of my case so there is always a magnetic field right along the right edge of the Nexus. It appears that when the other metal piece gets close, the magnetic field changes so that it is detected and the Nexus turns off.

The case was inexpensive and shipped from China so I will not be returning it. I have found a way to hold it with a finger between the to halves and that is working. I also hit the magnet a few times with a hammer and it seems slightly weaker, but it still can shut down the machine.

Thanks for the help. I think I now know what is happening!

 

[B. Diddy]

Is the magnetic piece you're referring to an obvious magnetic closure, that keeps the lid shut? That's different from the smartcover magnet, which is most likely embedded in the left side of the lid, invisible to you. But if your case does have a magnetic closure, then that stronger magnet does increase the risk of activating the smartcover sensor if it gets close to that left bezel area.

 

[BruceHAZ]

B. Diddy ... Yes, it is a magnetic closure. With the case opened like a book with the top cover on the left half and the Nexus stored on the right half, the magnet is on the right edge of the case. The top edge of the magnet is exposed and the rest is imbedded in a plastic frame that is used to hold the Nexus in place. The most left edge has a metal strip that lines up with the magnet when the case is closed.

One other comment: From the little bit of testing that I have done, the magnet appears to interfere with the sensors for the built-in compass.