Symptoms
- Screen shows the normal display but ignores all taps
- Buttons and gestures do nothing
- Phone may still receive calls or notifications
- Restarting sometimes temporarily fixes it
Likely causes
- CommonSoftware freeze or crashed appA stuck app can block touch input while the display keeps rendering.
- CommonMoisture, oil, or a screen protector interfering with touch sensingWater droplets or a poorly fitted protector can confuse the touch sensor.
- PossibleDigitizer hardware failureInternal damage from a drop or age can stop touch input while the display still works.
- PossibleSoftware update or setting glitchA recent update can occasionally leave touch drivers in a bad state until reboot.
What to do
- Force restart the phone using the button combination for your model (usually volume + power held together).
- Dry the screen and your hands thoroughly; remove any screen protector and test again.
- Remove the case in case it's pressing on the edges of the screen and interfering with touch.
- If one app seems stuck, try to close it from the recent apps view once touch briefly returns after restart.
- Check for a pending software update once the screen responds again, and install it.
- If the screen never responds even to a restart, connect it to a computer and check if it's recognized, which can help with backup.
- If the issue keeps recurring, note when it happens (charging, after drops, in cold weather) to help a technician diagnose it.
Tools and parts
- Soft dry cloth
When to call a pro
See a repair shop if a force restart never restores touch, or if it only fails after drops or in certain temperatures, which points to hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.