Level 1 (4 points)

Spotlight search features didn't working

My Spotlight search not working

Hi, the search function in my iPhone suddenly stopped working. Both the spotlight search and the search box in the settings. I tried most of the solutions from the internet (uninstalling shortcuts app, restoring the iphone, etc.). It's maybe an iOS bug because if I restart my Phone the search starts working, but just for 2-5 seconds. Then it's gone again and all I see is a blank screen with no results...

Has anybody had a similar issue and found a permanent solution? I'm on iOS 27, iPhone 13 pro.

Please help me out. I rely heavily on that feature to find Apps in my phone. Thanks

Posted on Sep 21, 2026 12:20 AM

4 replies

PreCognition

Level 6 (12,236 points)

Sep 21, 2026 1:18 AM in response to Priyanda_d

Since both Spotlight and Settings search stop working, I wouldn’t focus on the Shortcuts app. That points more toward Spotlight’s system-wide search index.

Before restoring again, I’d leave the iPhone plugged in, connected to Wi-Fi, and unused overnight. After an iOS update or restore, Spotlight may need time to finish indexing.

About Spotlight indexing and search results on Apple devices - Apple Support

If search still goes blank a few seconds after every restart, even after giving indexing plenty of time, I’d contact Apple Support rather than keep restoring the iPhone.

One thing that would help narrow it down: after your restore, did you set the iPhone up as new or restore from a backup?

Priyanda_d Author

Level 1 (4 points)

Sep 21, 2026 1:47 AM in response to PreCognition

I already read about this. About Spotlight indexing and search results on Apple devices - Apple Support

But never try charging my phone overnight with Wi-fi Connected.

I have this issue since iOS 26, after iOS 27 released in my Phone setting appear a banner "improving Search and Siri". It kept appearing for a couple days. And became "Improving Search and Siri - 25%". And just like that until this morning.

Now that banner is gone. I assume it was finish indexing my phone, But i still cann't use my spotlight search in Home Screen. And i really confuse. I hope Apple hear this problem and fixing this issue in next iOS update.

Priyanda_d Author

Level 1 (4 points)

Sep 21, 2026 1:22 AM in response to PreCognition

I did reset all my Phone Settings. but not helping, the search result show nothing.

Priyanda_d Author

Level 1 (4 points)

Oct 27, 2026 7:57 PM in response to Priyanda_d

iOS 27.2 fix this issue. Took long enough

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256361689