you can "disallow changing bluetooth status" via profile - in a second step it can be turned on with the teacher app. I never heard of another way to force bluetooth to be on. its possible with wifi though 

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@PCleaver wrote:

Hi all,

I just wondered with iOS18 if any of you have come across these issues on iOS18, and even iOS17.6 devices.

Bluetooth always on within the JAMF settings worked magnificently. I believe this worked due to JAMF Student in the background checking the bluetooth status, and when it was turned off, it would just toggle it back on. With the update to iOS18, and maybe even 17.6, we've noticed this toggle doesn't happen. I am assuming it's due to how background apps may now work and this behaviour doesn't happen. Just wondered has anybody found a way to force bluetooth to toggle back on? Or am I missing a trick with bluetooth somewhere?

Also, we set a layout which forces specific folders for settings and files, camera and photo, and then our managed apps. This layout that is set seems to stop the command centre working properly, including screen recorder. Is there a workaround to this. Layout is important for us as students end up creating hundreds of photos and saving apps on across multiple pages.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated.

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iOS 18 (and potentially 17.6) changes likely broke JAMF's "always-on" Bluetooth feature due to stricter background app restrictions. Workarounds are limited, possibly including supervised mode configurations, user education, or scheduled check-ins (less reliable). Contact JAMF for updates and guidance. Similarly, restrictive layouts may interfere with the Command Center and screen recording. Review JAMF profiles, test less restrictive layouts, and contact JAMF support for solutions. Apple's background restrictions and the need for MDM vendor updates are key factors.