How to force restart your iPhone
⚡ Fast fix
- Quick fix: A force restart clears glitches without deleting data.
- iPhone 8+: Volume Up → Volume Down → hold Side button.
- Older models differ: Button combos vary by iPhone version.
- Hold until logo: Don’t release until the Apple logo appears.
You pull out your iPhone® to check your email. But when you tap the app, the screen doesn't respond. Tapping on other apps doesn't work either. Should you force restart your device?
Asurion Experts keep your favorite tech devices running smoothly. Whether your iPhone is overheating or your iPhone keeps dimming, we have a solution. Here's how to force restart an iPhone, whether you have a new or older model.
What does it mean to force restart your iPhone?
A force restart reboots your iPhone at the hardware level, reloading the operating system without erasing your data.
It’s different from an iPhone factory reset, which deletes everything on your device.
Use a force restart when your iPhone is frozen, unresponsive, or malfunctioning.
How to force restart iPhone 8 and later models
- Press and release Volume Up
- Press and release Volume Down
- Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears
How to force restart an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus
- Press and hold Volume Down + Sleep/Wake
- Release when the Apple logo appears
How to force restart iPhone 6s and earlier models
- Press and hold Home + Sleep/Wake
- Release when the Apple logo appears
What to do if your iPhone won't force restart
- Try again and hold buttons longer
- Charge your phone for 30–60 minutes
- Let the battery fully drain if buttons are broken
Restore your device through a computer
As a last resort, restore via Finder or iTunes (this erases data).
FAQ
Why won’t my iPhone force restart?
Most of the time, it’s timing. The button sequence has to be done quickly and in the right order. If that doesn’t work, your battery may be too low or a button could be unresponsive.
How long should I hold the Side button during a force restart?
Hold it until you see the Apple logo—this can take 10–20 seconds. Letting go too early is the most common mistake.
Will a force restart delete anything on my iPhone?
No. A force restart simply reboots your device—it won’t erase apps, photos, or settings.
What’s the difference between a force restart and a normal restart?
A normal restart uses the on-screen menu. A force restart bypasses that and shuts the phone down at the hardware level—useful when your screen is frozen.
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