What to try when your phone screen stops responding
Engadget's guide covers basic checks, force restarts, Android safe mode and screen mirroring for an iPhone or Android screen that no longer answers touch.
The facts
- According to Engadget, start by checking for cracks, then remove the screen protector, case, accessories, stickers and gloves, and wipe the screen with a slightly damp microfibre cloth.
- On an iPhone with Face ID, a force restart means pressing volume up, then volume down, then holding the side button until the Apple logo shows. Android methods vary by maker, but the standard is holding the power button for 30 seconds.
- Engadget says Android safe mode loads only the software the phone shipped with. If the screen works there, a third-party app is likely the cause. If not, it points to hardware or a system fault.
- Mirroring only works if you set it up while the screen still responded. Options include iPhone Mirroring on a Mac (macOS Sequoia or later), Phone Link on Windows for Android, and the free tool Scrcpy.
Case notes · Danny's take
Why it matters
For a lot of people, the phone is the wallet, the bank app and the office. When the screen stops answering, you are locked out of all of it. Most of this guide is free and takes minutes, so try it before paying for a repair. The line that matters most: mirroring only works if you set it up before the screen died. Preparation beats panic.
Not financial advice. Do your own investigation.
This story was summarised with AI from Engadget's reporting and checked against our editorial policy. Danny's take reflects his views. Disclaimer.
Danny Walter
Founder of Moon Republic, Volt Terminal and Moon Republic Academy. Author of The Market Is a Crime Scene and After the Applause.