How to Reset an iPhone When the Screen Doesn’t Work

There are moments when technology, despite all its marvels, can let us down. One such instance is when your iPhone screen refuses to cooperate. Don’t panic! Even if the screen doesn’t work, there are ways to reset your iPhone. Let’s delve into the steps to do just that.

Understanding the Issue

Before attempting any solution, it’s vital to understand the nature of the problem. A non-responsive iPhone screen can be due to software glitches, physical damage, or even intermittent hardware issues.

Soft Reset: Your First Step

A soft reset, also known as a force restart, can help in situations where the phone is unresponsive due to a software glitch.

1. For iPhone 8 and Later:
   • Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
   • Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
   • Press and hold the Side button until you see the Apple logo, then release.
2. For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:
   • Press and hold the Volume Down and Sleep/Wake (or Side) buttons simultaneously.
   • Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
3. For iPhone 6s and Earlier:
   • Press and hold the Home button and the Sleep/Wake button together.
   • Release both buttons once the Apple logo is visible.

Restore via iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and Later)

If a soft reset doesn’t solve the problem, restoring your iPhone using iTunes (or Finder) might be the way to go. Here’s how:

1. Connect Your iPhone to a Computer:
   • Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC.
2. Open iTunes or Finder:
   • On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. For older macOS versions or a PC, launch iTunes.
3. Locate Your iPhone:
   • In iTunes, look for the iPhone icon in the top left menu. In Finder, find your iPhone under ‘Locations’.
4. Enter Recovery Mode:
   • Use the same button combinations for the soft reset based on your iPhone model. However, don’t release the final button when the Apple logo appears. Instead, keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen (which displays an iTunes logo and a USB cable).
5. Restore or Update:
   • A dialogue box will pop up in iTunes or Finder, offering the option to Restore or Update. Choose ‘Restore’ to reset your iPhone to factory settings. This action will erase all data on your device.

Fixing The Screen As An Option

This may sound unusual but the only thing to do when your screen isn’t working may just be to take it into an iPhone screen repair shop near you and have it repaired. Depending on your iPhone model this may not cost you all that much (see our prices here) and you could get back a phone in working order.

Conclusion

Facing an unresponsive iPhone screen can be daunting, but these steps provide a roadmap to resetting your device and getting it back to its normal state. Always ensure your data is backed up regularly, so you don’t risk losing important information if a reset is required.

FAQs

1. What if my iPhone still doesn’t work after a reset?
   • It’s possible there’s a more severe hardware issue. It would be best to consult with Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for assistance.
2. Will I lose all my data when I restore my iPhone?
   • Yes, restoring your iPhone erases all data. It’s crucial to have regular backups, either via iCloud or iTunes, to restore your data afterward.
3. Is there a difference between a reset and a restore?
   • Yes, a reset typically refers to turning the device off and back on (or a soft reset), while a restore involves erasing all content and setting the iPhone back to its factory state.
4. Can third-party software help if my iPhone screen doesn’t work?
   • Some third-party applications claim to fix various iPhone issues, but they come with risks. It’s always recommended to follow official Apple guidelines or consult professionals.
5. If my iPhone is under warranty, will a reset or restore affect it?
   • No, performing a reset or restore will not void your iPhone’s warranty. However, if you’re unsure or if the issue persists, it’s wise to reach out to Apple Support.