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Why is your iPad screen not responding?
An iPad screen usually stops responding because of a software fault, dirt or moisture on the screen, a poor screen protector, or physical damage to the screen. Try a force restart first. If the screen still doesn’t respond – or only responds in some places – it’s most likely a hardware fault, and the screen or glass will normally need replacing.
What does it cost?
You always get a fixed price before we start. See the price for your exact model in the price finder.
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Below you can see how to find the cause, and what you can try yourself.
Why is the iPad screen not responding?
Software fault
An app or iPadOS can freeze so the screen doesn’t respond. This is often fixed with a restart or an update.
Dirt, moisture or gloves
Grease, water or dirty fingers can interfere with touch. Wipe the screen with a dry microfibre cloth.
Screen protector or case
A thick, loose or cracked screen protector can make the screen less responsive, especially near the edges. Try taking it off.
Damage to the screen
After a drop, the touch layer (the digitiser) can be damaged even if the glass looks fine. If the screen only responds in some places, or “taps” by itself, that points to a hardware fault.
How to try fixing it yourself
1. Do a force restart
iPad without a Home button: Quickly press and release the volume button closest to the top button. Quickly press and release the other volume button. Then hold the top button until the Apple logo appears.
iPad with a Home button: Hold the Home button and the top button at the same time until the Apple logo appears.
2. Clean the screen and remove the screen protector
Wipe the screen, and take off the case and screen protector to see if that helps.
3. Update iPadOS
If you can control the iPad, update it under Settings > General > Software Update. If the update is causing trouble, read why won’t your iPad update?
4. Take a backup
If you can still use the iPad a bit, back it up to iCloud or your computer before you try anything else.
When does the iPad screen need repairing?
If a restart doesn’t help, the glass is cracked, or the screen only responds in some places, the screen or glass will probably need replacing. If the whole iPad freezes and restarts by itself, read iPad keeps restarting.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my iPad screen only respond in some places?
That often suggests damage to the touch layer, for example after a drop. Try a restart and remove the screen protector. If that doesn’t help, the screen or glass will normally need replacing.
Why is my iPad tapping by itself?
This is called ‘ghost touch’ and is often caused by a damaged screen, moisture or a poor screen protector. Try taking off the screen protector and restarting. If it carries on, the screen should be checked.
Can I use my iPad even though the screen is cracked?
Often for a while, but cracks can spread and make touch less reliable. Glass splinters can also hurt your fingers.
How much does an iPad screen replacement cost?
It depends on the model. See the price on our prices page. You’ll get the price before we start.
ITech-Rep replaces iPad screens in our shops in Odense and Nyborg. Read about iPad repair and screen replacement, or book online.
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