iPhone won't charge

Symptoms

• No charging icon or lightning bolt appears when plugged in
• Phone only charges in certain positions
• Charging starts and stops repeatedly
• Screen stays black even after time on the charger

Likely causes

• CommonDebris or lint packed in the charging portPocket lint builds up and blocks the connector pins from making contact.
• CommonDamaged or worn charging cableFrayed or bent cables are the single most common cause of charging failure.
• PossibleFaulty wall adapter or USB portA dead outlet, weak USB port, or failed adapter won't deliver power.
• PossibleSoftware glitch preventing charge recognitionA restart often clears a stuck charging state.
• Less commonInternal charging port or battery hardware failurePhysical damage or liquid exposure can damage the port or battery connector.

What to do

1. Inspect the charging port with a flashlight for lint, dust, or debris.
2. Gently clean the port with a dry anti-static brush or a wooden toothpick; never use metal objects or liquids.
3. Try a different certified cable and a different wall adapter or USB port.
4. Plug into a wall outlet directly rather than a computer USB port, which charges more slowly or not at all when the phone is off.
5. Force restart the iPhone (quick press volume up, quick press volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears).
6. Watch for the charging icon within a minute or two of plugging in.
7. If nothing works, try a known-good cable and adapter from another Apple device to isolate whether the phone or accessories are at fault.
8. If the phone still won't charge with confirmed-good accessories, the port or battery likely needs professional service.

Tools and parts

• Flashlight
• Anti-static brush or wooden toothpick

When to call a pro

If cleaning and swapping accessories doesn't restore charging, an Apple Store or authorized repair shop can inspect the charging port and battery.

Safety