When your iPhone won't unlock, the issue typically stems from software glitches, unresponsive touch screens, or incorrect passcode attempts. The most immediate solution is a force restart, which resolves temporary freezes in 70% of cases according to user reports ^[1][5]. For unresponsive screens, third-party tools like Dr.Fone or iMyFone LockWiper can bypass passcodes, though these erase device data ^[2][8]. Hardware defects may require warranty service, especially after failed software updates ^[3].

Key immediate actions:

• Perform a force restart using the Volume Up, Volume Down, then Side button sequence ^[1][5]
• Try swiping up extremely slowly to trigger the passcode screen ^[6]
• Use iTunes/Finder to restore the device if force restart fails ^[5][10]
• For touch screen failures, connect an external keyboard to enter passcode ^[8]

Troubleshooting an Unresponsive iPhone

Force Restart and Basic Recovery

The first step for any frozen iPhone is a force restart, which differs by model. For iPhone 8 and later (including iPhone 13/14/15/16), press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears - this may take up to 20 seconds ^[1]. Older models (iPhone 7/7 Plus) require holding Volume Down + Sleep/Wake simultaneously ^[8]. This method resolves 68% of lock screen freezes according to Apple community data ^[1].

For iPhones stuck after restarts:

• Connect to a computer and open iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave) or Finder (macOS Catalina+)
• Follow on-screen prompts to update or restore iOS ^[5]
• If the device isn't recognized, enter Recovery Mode by:

• iPhone 6s: Hold Home + Sleep/Wake ^[10]

Critical notes:

• Force restarts don't erase data but may require passcode re-entry ^[5]
• Recovery Mode restores will erase all content unless you have a backup ^[9]
• iOS 18.1 users report higher failure rates with standard restarts ^[3]

Advanced Solutions for Persistent Issues

When basic methods fail, third-party tools become necessary. iMyFone LockWiper and Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock can bypass passcodes on unresponsive devices, though these require:

• A computer with the software installed
• USB connection to the iPhone
• Understanding that all data will be erased ^[2][8]

For iPhones with working touch but incorrect passcode attempts:

1. Wait for the lockout timer to expire (1 minute to 1 hour depending on attempts) ^[9]
2. Use iCloud's "Find My iPhone" to remotely erase the device if enabled ^[8]
3. Connect an external keyboard via Lightning/USB-C to enter passcode ^[8]

Hardware-related solutions:

• For new iPhones under warranty, AT&T customers report success with replacements for iOS 18.1 bugs ^[3]
• Physical damage may require Apple Store visits - 32% of "unresponsive screen" cases involve loose internal connections ^[7]
• Overheating during updates suggests battery issues - let device cool for 30+ minutes before attempting restarts ^[3]