Phone won't turn on? Start here (iPhone, Samsung and Android)
Most phones that seem dead are just drained or frozen. Try these three checks, then pick the detailed guide for your phone.
The fix
3 checks that revive most phones
- 1
Charge it properly for 30 minutes.
Use a wall outlet, not a laptop. A fully drained battery can show nothing at all for the first 10 minutes.
- 2
Try a different cable and adapter.
A broken cable is one of the most common reasons a phone looks dead.
- 3
Force restart it while plugged in.
iPhone 8 and later: press volume up, press volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Samsung: hold the side key and volume down for about 10 seconds. Pixel: hold the power button for about 30 seconds.
Still not turning on? Pick your phone
- iPhone won't turn on: recovery mode, black screen with sound, overheating and when to book a repair.
- Samsung phone won't turn on: charging checks, Samsung recovery mode, moisture and battery problems.
Frequently asked questions
Will a force restart delete my data?
No. A force restart only turns the phone off and on again. Your photos, messages and apps are not affected.
My phone vibrates or rings, but the screen stays black. What is wrong?
The phone is on, but the display is not showing anything. This usually means a damaged screen or screen connector, especially after a drop, and needs repair.
What to try next
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