Symptoms
- Taps and swipes don't register anywhere on screen
- Only part of the screen responds
- Display shows normally but nothing happens when touched
Likely causes
- CommonMoisture, grease, or a wet screenTouchscreens can behave erratically with water or heavy grease on the surface.
- CommonSoftware freezeA frozen system can make an otherwise fine touchscreen seem dead.
- PossibleScreen protector bubbling or liftingAn air gap under the protector can interfere with touch sensitivity.
- PossibleCracked screen or damaged digitizer from a dropPhysical damage to the touch-sensing layer causes dead zones or total unresponsiveness.
What to do
- Clean the screen with a dry microfiber cloth and make sure your hands are dry.
- Remove a screen protector temporarily to rule it out.
- Perform a forced restart to rule out a software freeze.
- Check for any visible cracks, especially near dead areas of the screen.
- Test with a stylus if you have one, since some touch issues are finger-specific due to moisture or oils.
- If touch stays unresponsive after cleaning and restarting, and there's no crack, the digitizer may need professional testing.
Tools and parts
- Microfiber cloth
Replacement screen assemblySearch: “screen replacement for your tablet model”
When to call a pro
If cleaning, restarting, and removing the protector don't help, a repair shop can test the digitizer and replace the screen if it's damaged.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.