When your iPhone freezes or becomes unresponsive, it can be frustrating. Whether you’re dealing with a software glitch or your screen isn’t responding to taps, a quick restart might not cut it. That’s when knowing how to force restart an iPhone becomes essential. At PCmag, we understand the importance of smooth device performance, and we’re here to help you troubleshoot like a pro.
Let’s walk you through a clear, step-by-step guide tailored to various iPhone models, so you’re never stuck with an unresponsive phone again.
What Is a Force Restart?
A force restart is a more powerful version of the standard restart. Unlike a regular shutdown, it cuts off power and reboots the device even if the screen or buttons aren’t working properly. It’s a safe method that doesn’t erase your data but helps clear minor system hiccups.
Think of it as hitting a reset button without touching your files or apps.
Why You Might Need to Force Restart
There are several scenarios where a force restart becomes necessary:
- The screen is frozen and won’t respond to touch.
- Apps are crashing frequently.
- The phone is stuck on the Apple logo.
- Face ID or Touch ID suddenly stops working.
- After a software update, the device won’t boot properly.
A quick force restart can often resolve these problems without a visit to a repair center.
Steps to Force Restart Different iPhone Models
The method to force restart your iPhone varies depending on the model you’re using. Below, we’ve broken down the process for each type.
iPhone 8, iPhone SE (2nd Gen and later), iPhone X and newer
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
Your screen may briefly go black, which is normal. Once the Apple logo appears, release the Side button and allow the phone to restart.
iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
- Press and hold the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake (Side) button at the same time.
- Keep holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears.
This model introduced the solid-state home button, so the combination had to change compared to older devices.
iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, and iPhone SE (1st Gen)
- Press and hold both the Home button and the Sleep/Wake (Top or Side) button.
- Keep holding them until the Apple logo shows on the screen.
These earlier models rely on the physical home button, making the force restart method different from newer devices.
What to Do if Force Restart Doesn’t Work
If your iPhone remains unresponsive even after trying a force restart, here are some next steps:
- Charge your iPhone: Ensure the battery isn’t completely drained.
- Use iTunes or Finder for recovery: Connect your iPhone to a computer and try recovery or DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode.
- Visit Apple Support: If hardware issues are involved, you may need professional repair.
At PCmag, we recommend regular iOS updates and app maintenance to avoid frequent crashes.
Tips to Prevent Future Freezing
While a force restart is a great fix, it’s always better to prevent problems before they start. Here’s how you can reduce the need for emergency restarts:
- Keep your iOS updated: New updates often fix bugs.
- Limit background apps: Too many active apps can slow your phone down.
- Clear storage: Low storage can cause system lag.
- Avoid suspicious apps: Some apps may not be optimized for your device or could contain malware.
Staying proactive can help keep your iPhone running smoothly without the need for frequent intervention.
Why Trust PCmag?
For years, PCmag has been a reliable resource for tech troubleshooting, product reviews, and how-to guides. Our team tests and reviews hundreds of devices and tools to bring our readers easy, clear, and accurate information. When you’re looking for quick fixes and expert-backed advice, you can count on us.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to force restart an iPhone is a valuable skill for any user. It’s quick, safe, and often solves minor issues that can be a major inconvenience. Whether you’re using the latest iPhone or an older model, following the correct method ensures your phone is back in action in no time.
Don’t forget to bookmark this guide or share it with friends and family who might need a fast solution to an unresponsive iPhone. For more tech tips and easy-to-follow tutorials, visit PCmag—your go-to guide for smarter digital living.
