If your iPhone screen goes black, freezes, or the touch function completely stops responding, you don’t necessarily have a broken phone. Often, a system crash requires a “hard reset” to reinitialize the hardware.
Here is how to perform a hard reset for your iPhone without wiping any data.
Note: If at any point in this process you see or hear the SOS emergency countdown, you held the wrong buttons. Let go, cancel the SOS, and start over.
The iPhone Hard Reset Sequence
Step 1: Unplug the Device
Unplug the device from any charging cable.
Step 2: Volume Up
Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
Step 3: Volume Down
Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
Step 4: Hold Power
Press and hold the Power (Side) button.
Do not let impatience get hold of you! Keep holding the power button. This can take up to 40 seconds. As soon as you see the Apple logo appear on the screen, it is safe to release the button.
What If It Didn’t Work?
If your iPhone restarts and the Apple logo appears, your touch function should be reinitialized and working perfectly.
However, if your screen remains black after a full 40-second hold, or if the phone turns on but the touch function still does not work, it is a hardware failure. You most likely need a screen replacement. If you are in the Chicago Loop, visit us at Arbor Mac and we can replace the display assembly in about 15 to 30 minutes.