It’s a scenario many iPhone users dread: you pick up your phone, try to swipe, tap, or type, and find the screen remains stubbornly unresponsive. When this happens, it can disrupt your day and your tasks. The part of the screen responsible for physically interpreting your touch-related inputs is called a digitizer. Usually when a phone is not responsive to touch there’s an issue with the digitizer and that part (or the entire screen) may have to be replaced. Let’s look more into this issue.
Why It Happens
Multiple factors can cause the iPhone’s screen to stop responding, ranging from software issues to physical damage.
Probable Causes for Unresponsive Touchscreens
1. Software Glitches
Sometimes, it’s not the screen itself but the software running behind it. A minor software glitch or bug can occasionally interfere with the touchscreen’s responsiveness.
2. Physical Damage
Dropping your iPhone or exposing it to moisture can harm its internal components, leading to screen issues.
3. Dust or Debris
Dust or tiny debris particles can get lodged in various parts of the phone, interfering with its touch capabilities.
Steps to Troubleshoot an Unresponsive iPhone Screen
1. Restart Your iPhone
Often, the simplest solution can be the most effective. Try turning off your iPhone, waiting for a minute, and then turning it back on.
2. Remove Screen Protectors or Cases
Some screen protectors or cases may interfere with the touchscreen. Remove them to see if the screen starts responding.
3. Update to the Latest iOS
Apple frequently releases updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Make sure your iPhone runs the latest version of iOS.
4. Reset All Settings
If none of the above steps work, try resetting all settings. Remember, this won’t erase your data, but it will revert settings like Wi-Fi passwords and preferences.
When to Seek Professional Help
Recognizing Deeper Issues
If after trying the above steps your iPhone’s screen remains unresponsive, it may indicate a more profound hardware or software issue. In such cases, it’s best to consult an Apple technician or visit an Apple Store.
Conclusion
An unresponsive iPhone screen can be both alarming and frustrating. However, by systematically diagnosing the issue and taking the steps mentioned, you can often get your iPhone back to its usual responsive self. And remember, if in doubt, always seek professional guidance.
FAQs
- Can a third-party app cause my screen to become unresponsive?
Yes, sometimes poorly coded apps can interfere with system functions, including touch responsiveness. - How long should I wait before seeking professional help?
If you’ve tried the recommended steps and haven’t seen improvement within a day or two, it’s a good idea to consult a professional. - Is it costly to fix an unresponsive screen?
The cost varies based on the cause. Software issues are generally easier and less expensive to fix than hardware problems. - Can moisture cause touch screen issues?
Yes, moisture can interfere with the screen’s functionality. If your iPhone gets wet, turn it off and let it dry thoroughly before switching it on again. - Will resetting my iPhone’s settings delete my apps?
No, it will only revert the settings to their default state, but your apps and data will remain intact.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
