How to Turn Off iPhone with Broken Screen: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're facing the challenge of dealing with an iPhone that has a broken screen, it can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you need to turn it off. The conventional method of turning off your iPhone using the screen simply isn't an option. However, there are alternative methods to power down your device, ensuring you can manage your iPhone effectively even in such situations. In this guide, we will walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to turn off an iPhone with a broken screen.

Method 1: Using the Hardware Buttons

For iPhone models that have a physical Home button (iPhone 8 and earlier), turning off the device is relatively straightforward. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Press and hold the Side (or Top) button and one of the Volume buttons simultaneously until the power-off slider appears on the screen.
  2. Since you can't interact with the screen, you'll need to wait for a bit until the slider disappears, indicating that the device is turning off.

For iPhone models without a Home button (iPhone X and later), the process is slightly different:

  1. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
  2. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
  3. Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears, but in this context, you'll actually need to wait until the device powers off.

Using AssistiveTouch

If your iPhone has AssistiveTouch enabled, you can use this feature to turn off your device. Here's how:

  1. To locate the AssistiveTouch button, look for a small, floating icon on your screen. It might be in a corner or moved to a different location.
  2. Tap the AssistiveTouch button to open the menu.
  3. Tap "Device" and then press and hold the "Lock Screen" button.
  4. From there, tap and hold the "Power off" slider until it disappears, indicating the device is turning off.

Key Points

  • For iPhone 8 and earlier, use the Side (or Top) button and a Volume button to turn off the device.
  • For iPhone X and later, press and release the Volume Up and Down buttons, then hold the Side button.
  • AssistiveTouch can be used as an alternative method if enabled.
  • Ensure you have a way to back up your data regularly to avoid loss in case of further issues.
  • Consider getting your iPhone screen repaired by a professional.

Method 2: Connecting to a Computer

Another method to turn off your iPhone is by connecting it to a computer with iTunes installed. Here's how:

  1. Connect your iPhone to a computer that has iTunes installed.
  2. Open iTunes and select your device.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to back up your data and then click "Restore iPhone."
  4. During the restore process, your iPhone will power off and then restart.

Using Recovery Mode

If your iPhone is experiencing significant issues and can't be managed through the usual methods, using Recovery Mode might be necessary. This method also involves connecting your iPhone to a computer:

  1. Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes open.
  2. Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode:
    • For iPhone 8 and later: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then press and quickly release the Volume Down button, and then press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
    • For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down and the Sleep/Wake buttons at the same time until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
    • For iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold the Home button and the Sleep/Wake button at the same time until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
  3. iTunes should detect that your iPhone is in Recovery Mode. Click "Restore iPhone" to complete the process.
MethodDescriptionApplicable iPhone Models
Hardware ButtonsPress and hold specific buttons to power offAll iPhone models
AssistiveTouchUse the floating button to access power optionsiPhones with AssistiveTouch enabled
Computer ConnectionConnect to iTunes and restore the deviceAll iPhone models with iTunes access
💡 As an iPhone user, it's essential to regularly back up your data to prevent loss in case of screen damage or other issues. Consider enabling iCloud backups or regularly syncing with iTunes.

Can I turn off my iPhone with a broken screen without any additional software?

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Yes, you can turn off your iPhone with a broken screen using the device's hardware buttons. The method varies slightly depending on your iPhone model.

What if I don't have a computer to connect my iPhone to?

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If you don't have access to a computer, using the hardware buttons or AssistiveTouch (if enabled) are viable options to turn off your iPhone.

Is it safe to use Recovery Mode on my iPhone?

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Yes, it's safe to use Recovery Mode, but it will erase all data on your iPhone unless you have a recent backup. Ensure you back up your data regularly.

Dealing with a broken iPhone screen can be challenging, but there are multiple methods to manage your device, including turning it off. By using the hardware buttons, leveraging AssistiveTouch, or connecting to a computer, you can power down your iPhone effectively. Regular backups and professional screen repair are also recommended to ensure your device remains functional and your data is secure.