iPhone screen not responding to touch? 6 fixes to try

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Restart the iPhone. If the screen will not let you, force restart: press and release volume up, press and release volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Then clean the screen, unplug any accessory and remove the case and screen protector.

A screen that ignores taps, responds late or reacts in the wrong place is often caused by frozen software, moisture or dirt on the glass, a screen protector, or a faulty charger. Try these in order before booking a repair.

Step by step

  1. Restart the iPhone

    Hold the side button and either volume button until the slider appears, drag it, wait 30 seconds and turn the phone back on with the side button.

  2. Force restart if the screen is frozen

    On an iPhone with Face ID, press and quickly release volume up, press and quickly release volume down, then press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. This does not delete anything.

  3. Clean and dry the screen

    Wipe the glass with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth and dry it. Water drops, grease and dirt stop the screen from reading your finger correctly.

  4. Unplug accessories

    Disconnect any Lightning or USB-C accessory, including the charging cable, and test the screen again.

  5. Try a different charger

    If the screen works once the cable is unplugged, the charger is the cause. Use a different power socket, cable or charger.

  6. Remove the case and screen protector

    A case that presses on the edge of the glass or a lifting screen protector can block touches. Take both off and test the bare screen.

Good to know

If the screen is cracked or the phone was dropped or got wet shortly before the problem began, the display probably needs repair. Contact Apple Support or an Apple Authorised Service Provider.

On an iPhone 7, force restart by holding the side button and volume down together. On an iPhone 6s or earlier, hold the Home button and the side or top button together.

Back up the iPhone as soon as the screen works again, in case the fault returns.

In short: Restart or force restart, clean the screen, unplug accessories, remove the case and screen protector.

Sources
  • Apple Support: If the screen isn't working on your iPhone or iPad
  • Apple Support: If your iPhone won't turn on or is frozen

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.