Contents
7 Ways to Fix Touchscreen Not Working On iPhone
The iPhone’s robust design and quality don’t make it problem-free. Some users have reported a non-functional touchscreen, which is understandably frustrating as it renders the phone useless. However, this article can help fix the problem, with one catch.
Similar to the ghost touch problem, there can be multiple reasons why the touchscreen isn’t working on your iPhone. However, if it’s a software problem, you can fix it using the methods in this guide. If these don’t work, it’s likely a hardware issue and you’ll need to contact Apple Support. So, start with these fixes and see if they solve the issue. Let’s begin with the simplest and most efficient solution.
1. Force Restart iPhone
We’re confident you’ve tried turning off your iPhone, but the faulty touchscreen prevents you from using the slider to power off. That’s why the force restart iPhone option exists. It doesn’t require touch controls and can fix a non-working touchscreen caused by software issues.
The steps to restart the iPhone vary by model. Here are the instructions for each iPhone model. Choose the relevant one.
Step 1: Quickly press and release the volume up button.
Step 2: Quickly press and release the volume down button. Then, press and hold the side button.
Step 3: Release the button when the Apple logo appears.
On iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus:
Step 1: Press and hold both the volume down button and the Sleep/Wake button simultaneously.
Step 2: Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
On iPhone 6s, and iPhone SE 1st gen:
Press and hold both the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons simultaneously. Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears. This is the simple way to force restart your iPhone. If the touchscreen works properly afterwards, it was likely due to a process or application issue in your previous session.
The human body conducts electricity. When you touch a screen, you distort its electrical field, allowing the screen to recognize your touch. However, if there are any solid or liquid particles between your fingertips and the screen, this distortion will not occur and you will not receive any feedback. This may make you think that your iPhone touchscreen is not working. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to clean the screen. Follow these steps:
1. Unplug all cables from the iPhone.
2. Press the sleep/wake button to lock the iPhone.
3. Gently wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth.
Step 4: If the particles do not seem to go, use a soft lint-free cloth with very small amounts of soapy water. Wipe across your screen. Ensure you do not go near the earpiece, Touch ID button, or the edges of your device.
Using the above steps, carefully clean your iPhone. Ensure you gently wipe your screen, and avoid using a lot of liquid in the process. Now, see if the touchscreen is working.
3. Remove Case and Screen Protector
In the previous section, we discussed how dust particles can interfere with your fingertips and screen, blocking electrical conductance and preventing touchscreen feedback. This can also occur when using a thick screen protector or a case that touches your screen.
Therefore, we suggest removing the case and screen protector and attempting to use the screen again. If it functions properly, you have identified the problem. To avoid future issues, we recommend using a high-quality case and screen protector.
4. Uninstall Problematic Apps
If the touchscreen doesn’t work on specific apps, the issue is with the app itself, not your display. To resolve this, uninstall the app. Here’s how:
1. Long-press on the app icon until it starts to wiggle.
2. Click on the ‘-‘ button at the top left of the app icon.
Step 2: Click on Delete App.
If the issues persist, you can check if your iPhone needs a software update. Read the next section to learn how.
5. Update iPhone
Apple regularly releases software updates to address bugs and issues on your iPhone. To fix the touchscreen issue, it is advisable to update your iPhone to the latest software version. The great thing is that you can update your iPhone using either a Windows or Mac computer. Let me show you how.
Update iPhone Using Mac
Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your Mac with the lightning cable. Step 2: Select your iPhone in the list of devices.
Step 3: Select ‘Check for Update’ and install any available updates for your iPhone.
To update your iPhone using iTunes on a Windows machine, follow these steps.
Update iPhone on Windows
Step 1: Download and install iTunes from the Microsoft Store.
Step 2: Install and open iTunes on your PC.
Step 3: Connect your iPhone using the lightning cable.
Step 4: Your iPhone should now appear on the sidebar. Select your device and click on Summary.
Step 5: Click ‘Check for Updates.’ This will indicate if an update is available for your iPhone and will allow you to update it using iTunes.
If the issue persists after updating your iPhone, try resetting it. The steps for resetting your iPhone are explained below.
6. Factory Reset iPhone
Factory resetting the iPhone is one possible solution for a non-responsive touchscreen. Follow these steps to perform a reset:
(Step 1) Open the Settings App.
Step 2: Select General.
Step 3: Select ‘Transfer or Reset iPhone’.
Step 4: Select Reset.
Step 5: Select ‘Reset All Settings’ and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Step 6: Optional – Click ‘Erase All Content and Settings’ if the issue persists.
Step 7: Select Continue. Follow the instructions to erase and reset your iPhone.
If none of these steps work, you should have your device checked by an Apple-authorized service center. We will provide more information on this in the next section.
Taking your device to an Apple-authorized service center can be the safest option. It is a safe way to diagnose the issue, and despite this process costing you money, it will help you solve any issue as Apple offers good after-sales support. We’ve inserted some important links below to help you contact Apple Support.
Tap Away on Your iPhone
Fixing the touchscreen on iPhone can be frustrating, but there are ways to address the issue. Stay patient and try these methods before seeking Apple Care services, which can save you money in the long run.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.