How to fix a phone screen that doesn't respond to touch
Tech site Engadget has outlined steps for trying to restore a phone screen that no longer responds to touch. The advice runs from basic checks to mirroring the screen on a computer.
A smartphone screen can stop responding to touch for several reasons, including a frozen app, a drop, or a hardware fault. Tech site Engadget has published a guide to what iPhone and Android users can try themselves. Most cases have a simple fix, though some need professional repair.
Start with the basics
First, check the screen for cracks or other damage, which point to a hardware problem. Then remove the screen protector, since it can hide damage or cause the issue itself. Take off any gloves, remove the case, unplug USB-C or Lightning accessories, and peel off stickers covering the screen or sensors. The screen can be cleaned with a slightly damp microfiber cloth, taking care that no moisture gets into the phone's openings.
If that fails, force restart the phone. On an iPhone with Face ID, press and release volume up, then volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears, which can take more than 10 seconds. Older models use different button combinations. On Android the method depends on the manufacturer, but typically means holding the power button for 30 seconds.
Safe mode and resetting settings
On Android, safe mode loads only the software the device shipped with. If the screen responds there, a third-party app is the cause; if not, the problem is likely hardware or, in some cases, system software. Before blaming hardware, users can reset settings and turn off Developer options. A factory reset is the last resort because it wipes all data. After that, the guide suggests taking the phone to the manufacturer's service center or a reputable independent repairer.
Screen mirroring
If the screen doesn't respond at all, mirroring can help, but it must be set up beforehand. iPhone users with a Mac running macOS Sequoia or later can use iPhone Mirroring. Android users on Windows can use the Phone Link app. Android users can also use Scrcpy, a free open-source tool, and a USB OTG adapter allows a wired mouse to control the phone.
