iPhone is a smart and smooth device where everything works by touch. But, sometimes the screen may stop working or not respond at all when you try to tap or swipe. This issue is frustrating because you can’t open anything or use your phone properly.
Many users face this problem when their iPhone freezes or the touch just stops working without any warning. But don’t worry — this guide will help you fix it with some easy steps that you can try at home without needing repair.
Why iPhone Screen Is Not Responding?
There are many small reasons why your iPhone screen may stop responding. Some are related to software, and others may be due to physical damage. Here are the common causes:
- iPhone has a bug or system freeze
- Touch stopped working after a drop or hit
- Dirty screen or bad screen protector
- iOS is outdated or apps are crashing
- Screen issue due to water or hardware damage
You can fix most of these with basic tricks if your screen is not broken or cracked.
First Thing to Try: Restart Your iPhone
The first thing to try is a force restart. It refreshes your phone and removes bugs that may block the screen.
- For iPhone 8, X, 11, 12, 13, 14 or newer
Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then press and release Volume Down.
Now press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo shows. - For iPhone 7 or 7 Plus
Press and hold the Volume Down and Power button together until you see the Apple logo. - For iPhone 6s or older
Press and hold the Home button and Power button at the same time until the Apple logo appears.
If the screen starts working after this, your problem is fixed.
Remove Case, Screen Protector, and Clean Your Screen
Sometimes a thick case or low-quality screen protector can block your screen from reacting to your touch. Also, dirt or oil on the screen can make it slow or stuck.
What to do:
- Remove any screen protector or glass cover
- Take off the phone case
- Clean the screen with a soft and dry cloth
- Make sure your fingers are clean and dry too
Then try using your screen again.
Check for Software Problems
If your screen is not working properly, the reason may be inside the system. Some apps or settings can make your phone freeze or become slow.
- Check if your iOS is updated
- Close any app that may have crashed
- Make sure your storage is not full
- Run a quick test using Apple Support app or the Apple website
Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for iOS updates.
Use AssistiveTouch If Touch Is Not Working Fully
If part of your screen is still working, you can use a tool called AssistiveTouch to control your phone without touching everywhere.
Steps to turn on AssistiveTouch:
- Ask Siri: Say “Turn on AssistiveTouch”
- Or go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch > On
- A small menu will appear on your screen
- Use it to restart your phone or access settings
This tool helps a lot if your bottom screen or home button is not working.
Try These Extra Fixes Before Contacting Support
If your screen is still not responding, try some of these extra steps that might help:
- Let the battery drain fully, then charge it again
- Connect your iPhone to a computer and open iTunes or Finder
- Use your computer to create a backup if you think screen might stop working again
- Visit Apple’s website and go to the iPhone Support page for more tests
These methods can help when the issue is random and not due to physical damage.
When to Contact Apple Support
If your iPhone screen stopped working after falling, water contact, or failed update, it may be a hardware issue. In this case, home tricks may not work.
You should contact Apple Support or go to the nearest Apple Store. If you have AppleCare+, the repair may be free or low cost. You can also check your warranty on Apple’s official website.
Conclusion
An iPhone screen not responding is a common issue that can happen to any user. But most of the time, it can be fixed easily at home by restarting your phone, cleaning the screen, or updating iOS.
Try the steps one by one. If nothing works, then visit Apple Support or ask for help from someone who can check the phone closely.
Also, if you fixed your screen in a different way, you can share in the comment and help other users too.