If your iPhone suddenly stops responding to touch inputs, freezes during the startup process, or shows a black screen and cannot be shut down or restarted using the standard method, performing a force restart may be necessary.
A force restart, as the name suggests, compels the iPhone to reboot immediately without going through the normal shutdown sequence. This action halts all current system processes, allowing a malfunctioning iPhone to start up again properly, similar to how it boots after being turned off.
This procedure, also known as a force reboot, involves pressing a specific sequence of physical buttons. It is typically recommended only as a troubleshooting step when the iPhone is experiencing malfunctions and a regular restart is not possible or effective. Note that a force restart can be initiated whether the iPhone’s screen is active and displaying content or if it is completely black.
How to force restart iPhone 6s or earlier models
Press and hold both the Home button and the Sleep/Wake (power) button simultaneously. Continue holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen, then release them.
How to force restart iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and iPod touch (7th gen)
Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake (power) button simultaneously. Keep holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears, then release them.
How to force restart iPhone 8 or later models (including iPhone X, 11, 12, 13, 14, SE 2nd/3rd gen, and newer)
Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Immediately, quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Then, press and hold the Side button. Continue holding the Side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen, then release it.