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Apple iPhone • Sound & screen • 5–15 minutes

Touchscreen is not responding — Apple iPhone

Safety firstGrowing black spots, flashing, sharp glass, or a screen lifting away from the iPhone needs repair.
Water, a tight case, a damaged screen protector, or a charger can stop touch from working.

  1. Check for an iOS update

    If the screen responds enough to open Settings, check for an update first. If it does not respond at all, continue to the next step. Open Settings > General > Software Update. If an update is available, tap Update Now and follow the on-screen steps.

  2. Unplug and uncover it

    Disconnect every cable. Remove the case and any cracked, lifting, or wet screen protector.

  3. Dry the screen and hands

    Use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not spray cleaner onto the iPhone.

  4. Force restart an iPhone 8 or newer

    Quickly press and release Volume Up, quickly press and release Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

  5. Test the screen without a charger

    After restart, open Notes and draw lines across the top, middle, bottom, left, and right.

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