Experiencing a flickering screen on your iPhone can be distracting and even make the device difficult to use. While screen flickering can sometimes indicate hardware issues, many cases are caused by software glitches, settings conflicts, or app interference. The good news is that most flickering problems can be resolved without visiting a repair shop.
This guide provides step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and fix iPhone screen flickering safely at home.
Common Causes of iPhone Screen Flickering
- Software Glitches: Temporary bugs in iOS or apps can cause flickering.
- Display Settings Issues: Auto-brightness, True Tone, or Night Shift settings can affect screen stability.
- App Conflicts: Some apps may interfere with display rendering.
- Battery or Power Issues: Charging with faulty cables or low battery can create flickering.
- Hardware Damage: Dropped phones, liquid exposure, or loose internal connectors.
Step 1: Restart Your iPhone
Restarting your iPhone often fixes minor software glitches:
- Press Volume Up → Volume Down → Hold Power until the power-off slider appears.
- Slide to turn off your iPhone.
- Wait about 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
Step 2: Update iOS
Running the latest iOS version ensures that known bugs are patched:
- Go to Settings → General → Software Update.
- Download and install any available updates.
Step 3: Adjust Display Settings
Incorrect display settings can contribute to flickering:
- Disable Auto-Brightness:
- Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size → Turn off Auto-Brightness
- Turn off True Tone:
- Settings → Display & Brightness → Toggle True Tone off
- Check Night Shift or Dark Mode: Temporarily disabling these can help isolate flickering causes.
Step 4: Close or Remove Problematic Apps
- Swipe up (or double-tap Home on older iPhones) to access App Switcher.
- Close all background apps.
- If flickering persists, uninstall recently installed apps to identify conflicts.
Step 5: Reset All Settings
Resetting settings restores default configurations without deleting your data:
- Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset All Settings
This can resolve display-related issues caused by misconfigured settings.
Step 6: Check Charging Accessories
- Use only Apple-certified cables and chargers.
- Avoid using the iPhone while charging if flickering occurs.
- Faulty or incompatible chargers can cause screen instability.
Step 7: Force Restart if Screen Is Severely Flickering
- Press Volume Up → Volume Down → Hold Power until the Apple logo appears.
- This temporarily stabilizes the display and allows you to troubleshoot further.
Step 8: Inspect for Hardware Issues
If flickering persists despite software fixes:
- Check for loose internal connectors from previous drops.
- Look for water damage signs that may affect the display.
- Hardware repair may be required for persistent flickering caused by screen or display module issues.
Repair Options:
- Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider ensures genuine parts and professional service.
Estimated Costs:
- iPhone screen or connector repairs: $129–$329 depending on model and warranty coverage.
Step 9: Prevent Future Screen Flickering
- Keep your iPhone updated with the latest iOS.
- Avoid using the device in extreme heat, moisture, or while charging with low-quality accessories.
- Clean the screen regularly and keep it free from debris.
- Close unused apps to prevent software conflicts.
- Use a protective case to minimize impact damage.
Conclusion
iPhone screen flickering is most commonly caused by software glitches, display settings, or app interference. Most cases can be fixed without visiting a repair shop using methods such as restarting, updating iOS, adjusting display settings, closing apps, and resetting settings.
Persistent flickering usually indicates hardware issues that require professional repair. Following preventive measures ensures your iPhone display remains stable, responsive, and flicker-free over time.
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