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INTRODUCTION
If your iPhone screen is broken, unresponsive, or completely black, you may be wondering: How can I reset my iPhone without using the screen? Whether you’re trying to fix a frozen device, erase personal data before a repair, or just perform a reset, the good news is — yes, it’s possible!
In this guide, we’ll show you how to reset an iPhone without the screen, using simple tools like iTunes, Finder, iCloud, or even third-party software. No tech skills required. Let’s dive in!
🧠 Why You Might Need to Reset an iPhone Without Screen
Before we get into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to reset your iPhone without the screen:
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The screen is broken or cracked and doesn’t respond.
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The phone is frozen and stuck on the Apple logo.
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You're planning to sell or give away the phone.
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You forgot your passcode and can't access the screen.
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You want to erase everything before taking it to a repair center.
Now that we understand the why, let’s move on to the how.
🔁 Method 1: Use iTunes or Finder (Best for Most Users)
If you’ve connected your iPhone to a computer before, this is the easiest way to reset it, even if the screen doesn’t work.
Step-by-Step:
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Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
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Open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later).
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Force your iPhone into Recovery Mode:
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iPhone 8, X, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15:
Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button.
Then, press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen. -
iPhone 7 / 7 Plus:
Hold down the Volume Down + Power buttons together. -
iPhone 6s and older:
Hold down the Home + Power button at the same time.
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When prompted on your computer, click Restore.
This will erase your iPhone and install the latest iOS version — without needing to use the screen at all.
📝 Note: This method deletes all data. Make sure you’ve backed up your iPhone if you need your info.
☁️ Method 2: Use iCloud to Reset your iPhone Without the Screen
If you have Find My iPhone turned on, you can use iCloud to reset your iPhone remotely — even if the screen is black or frozen.
Here’s how:
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Go to iCloud.com on a computer or another phone.
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Sign in with your Apple ID and password.
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Click Find iPhone > Select your broken iPhone from the list.
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Click Erase iPhone.
Boom! Your iPhone will be reset and wiped clean the next time it connects to the internet.
✅ This is a great option if your iPhone screen is unresponsive but the phone is still turned on.
🧰 Method 3: Use Third-Party Software (No iTunes, No iCloud)
Don’t want to deal with iTunes or iCloud? There are tools like Tenorshare ReiBoot, iMyFone Fixppo, or Dr.Fone that let you reset iPhones easily — even with a broken screen.
General Steps:
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Download and install the tool on your PC or Mac.
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Connect your iPhone via USB.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to enter Recovery Mode.
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Choose the Factory Reset or Advanced Reset option.
Most of these tools have a free version, but full features might require a license.
🛡️ Just make sure to use a trusted brand. Avoid sketchy software!
⚠️ What If You Can’t Turn on the iPhone?
If your iPhone screen is broken and the phone won’t turn on at all, you won’t be able to reset it without hardware repair. In this case:
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Try charging the phone with a known-good charger.
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Try using a different cable and port.
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Visit an Apple Store or authorized repair center to diagnose the issue.
Once it powers on, you can then use any of the above methods.
🙋♀️ FAQ: Reset iPhone Without Screen
Q1: Will resetting delete all my data?
Yes, a full reset erases everything on the iPhone. If possible, back it up first using iTunes or iCloud.
Q2: Can I reset my iPhone without a screen if I forgot my Apple ID?
No. You’ll need your Apple ID and password to reset or erase the iPhone due to Apple’s Activation Lock security feature.
Q3: Can Apple reset it for me?
If you visit an Apple Store with proof of purchase, they may help reset it — especially if the screen is damaged.
📝 Final Thoughts
Resetting an iPhone without using the screen might sound impossible, but it’s totally doable. Whether you're using iTunes, iCloud, or a third-party tool, you can still wipe or restore your iPhone without touching the display.
Just follow the method that works best for your situation:
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Use iTunes/Finder if you’ve connected the iPhone before.
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Use iCloud if Find My iPhone is enabled.
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Use software tools for a more user-friendly approach.
Conclusion
Resetting an iPhone without a working screen might seem like a challenge, but with the right tools and steps, it’s entirely possible. Whether you use iTunes, Finder, iCloud, or trusted third-party software, there’s always a way to reset your device — even if the display is cracked, frozen, or completely black.
Just remember: a reset will erase all your data, so back up your iPhone if you can. And don’t forget your Apple ID and password, which are crucial for bypassing Activation Lock.
If you’re stuck or unsure, it’s always a good idea to reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorized service center.
We hope this guide made things easier for you. If it did, share it with someone who might be struggling with the same issue. 👍
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