Fix iPhone 16 Touch Screen Issues With 13 Tips [iPhone 16 Pro Max Included]

Part 1: Common Causes of iPhone 16 Touch Screen Issues

There could be many reasons why your iPhone 16 screen not responding to touch. In this section, we’re going to check out the common causes for this issue.

• An incompatible case or screen protector interfering with the touch screen
• Dirty or smudged screen
• iPhone connected to a faulty accessory
• Software issues
• Overheating iPhone
• Faulty OS installation
• Hardware issue

Part 2: Fix iPhone 16 Touch Screen Not Working - 12 Quick Methods

Fix 1: Buy a Suitable Case for iPhone 16 Pro & iPhone 16 Pro Max

If your iPhone 16 Pro Max has touch unresponsiveness, buying a suitable case may help. A good case can provide protection from drops and impacts, which could be causing the issue. It also improves grip, reducing the chance of accidental drops, and keeps dust and debris away from the device. Additionally, some cases help with heat dissipation, which might improve touch sensitivity. Make sure to choose a case that fits both the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max for the best protection.

Fix 2: iPhone 16 Screen Physical and Environmental Checks

If your iPhone 16 screen not working, performing a series of physical and environmental checks can help resolve the issue.

• Start by removing any screen protector or case that might be interfering with the screen's responsiveness. Dirt and debris can also cause problems, so it's essential to thoroughly clean the iPhone screen with a soft, lint-free cloth, ensuring both the screen and your fingers are clean.
• Additionally, disconnect any wired accessories, as these can sometimes cause conflicts or interfere with the touch functionality.

Fix 3: Restart/Force Restart iPhone 16

If your iPhone 16 not responding to touch, restarting or force restarting the device can often resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

Restart iPhone 16/16 Pro/16 Pro Max:

• Hold down the power button until the "slide to power off" slider appears.
• Swipe to turn off the device.

• Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.

  

Force Restart iPhone 16/16 Pro/16 Pro Max:

• Quickly press and release the volume up button.
• Quickly press and release the volume down button.
• Hold down the power button until you see the Apple logo.

Fix 4: Check for iOS 18 Updates

If your iPhone 16 screen unresponsive, checking for iOS 18 updates can help resolve any software-related issues. Updating to the latest iOS version can fix bugs and improve system performance, which might resolve the issue of your iPhone 16 screen being unresponsive. Follow these steps:

• Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone 16. Scroll down and tap on "General." Select "Software Update."

• If an update is available, tap "Download and Install" to update to the latest version.

  

Fix 5: Charge iPhone 16 with Original Charger for 30 Minutes

If your iPhone 16 pro max screen not responding, it could be due to low battery or power-related issues. Charging your device with the original charger for 30 minutes might help. Follow these steps:

• Use the original charger and cable that came with your iPhone 16/16 Pro/16 Pro Max.
• Plug your iPhone into a power outlet.
• Let it charge uninterrupted for at least 30 minutes.

Related read iOS 18 Charging Issues? Effective Solutions Here.

Fix 6: Manage iPhone 16 Storage

If your iPhone 15 touch screen not working after update, managing your iPhone 15 or 16's storage can help. A cluttered or nearly full storage can lead to performance issues, including screen responsiveness problems. Here's how you can clean up your storage:

• Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone 16. Tap on "General." Select "iPhone Storage."
• Review the list of apps and data to see what's taking up the most space. Delete unnecessary apps, large files, or offload unused apps by tapping on them and selecting the appropriate option.

• If an app takes up too much memory, you can open the app, tap the settings inside, usually there will be a clear cache option. If it's photos that take up too much memory, you can open iCloud photos and sync photos to iCloud to optimize iphone storage.

  

Fix 7: Troubleshoot App-Specific Problems

The iPhone 16 touch screen not working issue might also be related to a specific app rather than the device itself. Troubleshooting app-specific problems can help identify and resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

• Identify if the touch screen issue occurs only within a particular app.
• Try closing the app by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and pausing in the middle to see the app switcher, then swipe up on the app's preview to close it.
• Reopen the app to see if the problem persists.
• If the issue continues, check the App Store for any available updates for the problematic app.
• If the app is up to date, consider uninstalling and reinstalling it to see if that resolves the issue.

Fix 8: Prevent iPhone 16 Overheating

iPhone 16 touch screen not working even now? Overheating could be a potential cause. Preventing your iPhone 16 from overheating can help maintain its touch screen functionality.

Here’s what you can do to cool down your iPhone 16:

• Avoid using your iPhone 16 in direct sunlight or in hot environments for extended periods.
• Reduce processor-intensive activities like gaming, streaming, or using demanding apps for long durations.
• Remove any case that might trap heat and prevent proper ventilation.
• Close unnecessary apps running in the background by swiping up from the bottom of the screen and pausing in the middle, then swiping up on the app previews.
• If your iPhone overheats, turn it off and allow it to cool down for several minutes before turning it back on.

Fix 9: Reset to Factory Settings

If your iPhone 16 touch screen not working and previous solutions haven't resolved the issue, resetting your iPhone to factory settings might be necessary. This process will erase all data and settings, restoring your device to its original state.

• Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone 16. Tap on "General." Scroll down and select "Reset" or "Transfer or Reset iPhone." Choose "Erase All Content and Settings."

• Confirm your decision and enter your passcode if prompted. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

  

Related read Reset All Settings VS Erase All Content and Settings.

Fix 10: Restore Your iPhone 16 Using iTunes (Data-Loss)

If your iPhone 16 touch screen not working and other troubleshooting methods haven't worked, restoring your iPhone using iTunes might be a solution (iOS will be reinstalled), though it can result in data loss. (You can use ReiBoot to restore your iOS system without any data loss.)

If your iPhone is not recognized by iTunes after connecting, please skip to the next fix to enter DFU mode.

• Connect your iPhone 16 to a computer using the original USB cable. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS) on your computer. Select your iPhone 16 when it appears in iTunes or Finder.

• Click on "Restore iPhone" and confirm the action. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restoration process.

  

Fix 11: Use DFU Mode for a Deep Restore

iPhone 16 touch screen not working even after all the methods above? Using DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode for a deep restore may be your last resort. This process can resolve deep-rooted software issues but will erase all data on your device.

Follow these steps to restore your iPhone in DFU mode:

• Connect your iPhone 16 to a computer using the original USB cable. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS) on your computer.
• Quickly press and release the volume up button, then quickly press and release the volume down button.
• Immediately hold down the power button until the screen goes black, then hold down the power button and volume down button together for 5 seconds.
• After 5 seconds, release the power button but continue holding the volume down button for another 10 seconds.

• If the screen stays black, you’ve successfully entered DFU mode. iTunes or Finder will detect your iPhone in recovery mode.

  

• Follow the iTunes on-screen instructions to restore your iPhone in DFU mode.

  

Video guide on how to put iPhone 16 in DFU mode:

Related read DFU Mode VS. Recovery Mode.

Fix 12: Apple Store Screen Repair

If your iPhone 16 touch screen not working and all troubleshooting steps have failed, it may be time to visit an Apple Store for professional screen repair. Here’s what you need to do:

• Choose System Settings > General > AppleCare & Warranty.
• Locate your nearest Apple Store or an authorized Apple service provider.
• Schedule an appointment through the Apple Support app or the Apple website.
• Bring your iPhone 16 to the appointment, along with any necessary documentation, such as proof of purchase or warranty information.

• Explain the issue to the technician, mentioning the steps you’ve already taken to resolve it. The technician will assess the problem and suggest a repair or replacement of the screen if necessary.

  

Part 3: iOS System Repair Tool to Fix iPhone 16 Screen Unresponsive

If nothing works and you aren’t ready to take your iPhone to an Apple Store yet, Tenorshare ReiBoot iOS system repair tool is your best bet to fix the problem on your own by repairing the system. ReiBoot fully reinstalls the iOS system on your phone, fixing out all the software issues in the process.

Here’s how to use Tenorshare ReiBoot iOS system repair tool:

• Download and install ReiBoot on your computer, and open it. Connect your iPhone and click the “Start Repair” button.

  

• Choose “Standard Repair”. The standard repair will not cause any data loss on the phone.

  

• Select “Download” to download the iOS installation file. The download process typically takes about 10 minutes, depending on the network speed. Once the firmware is downloaded, click “Start Standard Repair” and wait.

  

• Wait for a few minutes, and you’re done! Now you can turn on your iPhone 16, and the screen should no longer have the "not responding" issue.

  

ReiBoot iOS system repair video guide

FAQs about iPhone 16 Screen Issues

1. What does AppleCare warranty cover?

AppleCare covers your iPhone against manufacturing defects, hardware issues, and accidental damage, though the latter may require a deductible for repairs.

2. How to calibrate iPhone 16 screen?

iPhones don't have a manual screen calibration option; instead, resetting all settings or performing a software update can help improve touch sensitivity.

3. What does ghost touch mean?

Ghost touch refers to the screen registering touches or movements on its own, often due to hardware issues or software glitches.

Conclusion

You can start your troubleshooting process by removing the case and screen protector, and unplugging and third party accessories.

Try restarting your phone. If that doesn’t work, you can try resetting it to factory settings. If nothing works, Tenorshare ReiBoot is your best bet.