How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen

This key cluster is very useful, allowing you to adjust music playback without having to authenticate the lock screen. However, some people find these controls annoying because it's easy for them to accidentally touch them, when you don't want them to. Or if you simply don't need to use this key cluster, you can completely turn it off.

How to hide the media playback control key cluster on the iPhone lock screen

In the media playback panel on your iPhone's lock screen, tap the blue AirPlay icon to the right of the title of the currently playing track or podcast, as shown below.

How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen Picture 1

In the AirPlay menu that appears, tap 'Control Other Speakers & TVs' at the bottom of the list of devices.

How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen Picture 2

In the next menu that appears, tap 'iPhone' at the top of the list of devices. By doing this, you are letting your iPhone know that you don't want to remotely control the AirPlay device on your iPhone at this time.

How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen Picture 3

After tapping on 'iPhone', you'll see a small media play window on the iPhone lock screen that looks something like this.

How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen Picture 4

To exit the iPhone's media playback screen, put your iPhone to sleep (screen lock) by tapping the power button on the side or top edge (depending on your device).

How to hide the AirPlay media playback control key cluster on the iPhone's lock screen Picture 5

When you turn your iPhone screen back on, the media controls on the lock screen will disappear!

David Pac

Update 09 June 2021