Restarting your iPhone might seem like a simple task, but depending on the model you own, the method to do so can vary significantly. Whether you’re facing a frozen screen, a sluggish interface, or connectivity issues, restarting your iPhone is often the first—and most effective—solution. It’s a quick, safe, and efficient way to clear temporary glitches and refresh your system.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to properly restart every model of iPhone, from the older Home button models to the latest Face ID variants. We’ll also explain the difference between a regular restart, a forced restart, and when to use each one.
Let’s jump in.
Why Restarting Your iPhone Matters
Just like any computer, your iPhone benefits from an occasional reboot. Here’s why restarting is often recommended:
1. Fix Temporary Software Glitches
Sometimes apps misbehave or don’t respond properly. Restarting clears your device’s memory and gives it a fresh start.
2. Improve Performance
Over time, your iPhone may slow down due to background processes. A restart helps speed things back up.
3. Resolve Connectivity Issues
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular problems often go away with a simple restart.
4. Update System Settings
Certain settings and network changes take effect only after a reboot.
5. Prolong Battery Health
Frequent restarts aren’t necessary, but occasionally restarting can help your phone recalibrate battery statistics.
Types of iPhone Restarts
Before we get into the steps, it’s important to know the three main types of restarts:
✅ Regular Restart (Soft Restart)
This is the standard method used when the phone is functioning normally. It simply powers the device off and on.
✅ Force Restart (Hard Reset)
Used when the screen is frozen or unresponsive. It forcibly reboots the system without going through the usual shutdown process.
✅ Restart Using Settings
If your buttons aren’t working, iOS provides a way to restart from within the software.
How to Restart an iPhone (Model-by-Model Breakdown)
Let’s explore the correct restart methods depending on the iPhone model you’re using.
🔹 iPhone X, XR, XS, XS Max
🔹 iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 Series
(Devices without a Home button, with Face ID)
🔁 To Perform a Regular Restart:
- Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up (or Volume Down) at the same time.
- When the Power Off slider appears, release the buttons.
- Slide to power off.
- Wait about 30 seconds.
- Press and hold the Side button again until the Apple logo appears.
💡 Tip:
If the screen is responsive, you can also go to Settings > General > Shut Down, then turn it back on manually.
🔹 iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd Gen), 8, 7, 6s, 6
(Devices with a Home button)
🔁 To Perform a Regular Restart:
- Press and hold the Side (or Top) button until the Power Off slider appears.
- Slide it to turn the phone off.
- After the screen goes dark, wait a few seconds.
- Press and hold the Side button again to turn it back on.
🔹 iPhone SE (1st Gen), iPhone 5s, 5, and older
These phones use a Top button instead of a side button.
🔁 To Restart:
- Press and hold the Top button until the Power slider appears.
- Slide to power off.
- After a few seconds, hold the Top button again to turn it on.
How to Force Restart an iPhone (When Screen is Frozen)
A force restart is handy when your iPhone becomes unresponsive and you can’t swipe or tap anything.
🔹 iPhone 8 and Newer (Including iPhone SE 2nd/3rd Gen)
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Side button until the screen turns black and the Apple logo appears.
🔹 iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
- Press and hold both the Volume Down and Side button together.
- Keep holding until the Apple logo appears.
🔹 iPhone 6s, SE (1st Gen), and Earlier
- Press and hold the Home button and the Top (or Side) button simultaneously.
- Continue holding until you see the Apple logo.
How to Restart Your iPhone Without Using Buttons
Sometimes, your physical buttons might be broken or unresponsive. You can still restart using AssistiveTouch or through Settings.
✅ Restart from Settings:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to General.
- Scroll down and tap Shut Down.
- Use the slider to turn off the iPhone.
- Turn it back on by plugging it into a charger or using the Side button.
✅ Restart Using AssistiveTouch:
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch.
- Turn on AssistiveTouch.
- Tap the AssistiveTouch button on the screen.
- Go to Device > More > Restart.
- Confirm the restart.
This method is helpful for users with physical limitations or broken buttons.
When Should You Restart Your iPhone?
While iPhones are designed to run smoothly without frequent reboots, here are situations where restarting can help:
- After installing a system update
- When apps crash frequently
- If your phone gets unusually warm
- After changing network or SIM card settings
- If the screen freezes or becomes laggy
- When Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular functions stop working
Common Myths About Restarting iPhones
Let’s debunk a few misunderstandings:
❌ Myth 1: Frequent restarts damage the battery
Reality: Occasional restarts are healthy for system performance and have no negative impact on battery life.
❌ Myth 2: You lose your data when restarting
Reality: Restarting does not delete anything. Your photos, messages, and apps remain untouched.
❌ Myth 3: Restarting too often wears out the hardware
Reality: Apple designs its devices to handle daily use, including reboots. Restart as needed.
Troubleshooting Restart Issues
❗ iPhone Won’t Turn Back On?
- Charge it for 15–30 minutes.
A completely drained battery may need time before it powers back on. - Use a different charger or cable.
Sometimes the issue lies in faulty accessories. - Force restart again.
If a normal restart doesn’t work, try a hard reset. - Contact Apple Support.
If none of the above work, you may be dealing with hardware issues.
Restart vs. Reset vs. Restore: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse these terms. Let’s clear them up:
| Term | What It Does | Data Loss? |
|---|---|---|
| Restart | Reboots the device | No |
| Reset | Resets settings to default (optional data wipe) | Sometimes |
| Restore | Wipes the device and reinstalls iOS | Yes (unless backed up) |
A simple restart is non-destructive and safe for all users.
Final Thoughts
Restarting your iPhone is one of the most effective ways to fix common issues, enhance performance, and refresh your system. Whether you’re using the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max or holding onto an older model like the iPhone 6, knowing how to restart your iPhone properly can save you time and frustration.
It only takes a few seconds, and in many cases, it’s all you need to get your phone working like new again.
Take a moment to memorize the steps for your specific model—or better yet, bookmark this guide for quick reference whenever things feel off.
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