// ENGADGET — MOBILE & WEB
How to fix your phone screen when it's unresponsive to touch
There are a number of reasons that can make your phone's screen unresponsive to your touch. Sometimes it's a simple thing, like an app freezing. Other times, it's something more serious, like your phone falling when you tried to take it out of your pocket (we've all been there). Regardless of the "why," most times, a simple fix can get your pocket's best friend ready for your next scrolling session.
How you fix the issue depends on why it happened in the first place. For example, if an app crashing is the cause, then a restart can do the trick. In case you're wondering, an app freezing or crashing can make your screen unresponsive because your touch input has to pass through the processor to reach the app.
A crash can jam the chains of that operation, halting the process. Just to be clear, not every unresponsive screen is a software issue; some need a professional repair.
If your phone's screen suddenly becomes unresponsive to touch, start by examining it for cracks or other damage. If you see any, you're likely dealing with a hardware issue, not software. Next, take off the screen protector, since it can hide damage and could also be the cause of your screen's unresponsiveness. If you're wearing gloves, take them off.
Check what's around your screen too. Remove the case, disconnect any USB-C or Lightning accessories, and peel off any stickers covering the screen or sensors. Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to properly clean your screen of dirt or liquid, and make sure to avoid getting moisture in your phone's opening.
If none of that works, the next step is to restart your phone. A good restart can clear any software glitch and set your phone's head straight. Since a standard restart is likely out of the question due to the screen not responding, you need to force restart your device. On an iPhone with Face ID, press and quickly release the volume up button. Then do the same with the volume down button. Next, press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. This could take longer than 10 seconds.
The process is different for older iPhone models. On an iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, press and hold the side and volume down button together. On an iPhone 6s and earlier, hold the Home button plus the side or top button.
On Android, the process can differ depending on the manufacturer, so you'll have to check for your specific device, but the standard process is to hold the power button for 30 seconds until it restarts.
If none of the earlier fixes get your screen working again, you're likely facing a deeper hardware or software issue. On Android, you can use safe mode to check whether a third-party app is behind your screen's unresponsiveness, because it loads only the software your device shipped with. If your screen responds in safe mode, then a third-party app is the culprit. If not, it's likely a hardware issue or, in some cases, a fault in the system software.
To enter safe mode, force restart the device. When the manufacturer's logo appears, press and hold the volume down button until the phone starts up. If successful, "Safe mode" will appear in the bottom-left corner.