If your iPhone isn’t charging at all or at least giving you issues when charging, that can lead to a complicated series of steps to figure out what is wrong with it. The first step is to determine the cause and what type of issue it is – hardware or software. Sometimes it can be as simple as a faulty cable, a clogged charging port, or a software glitch. Other times it can be a physical issue with the port or something wrong with the internal battery. Again, identifying the actual problem is critical for being able to fix it.
We always recommend starting out with a different (known working) cable/charger combination and doing a power off/power-on cycle on the phone to rule out issues related to software. You can also update to the latest iOS version to see if it’s a bug. Beyond that, you’ll want to check your charging port to see if there’s any dust or debris in it blocking the connector. After those are ruled out, you might need to consider taking your phone in for servicing as charging related issues beyond the obvious can be very difficult to handle.\
Troubleshooting Your iPhone Charging Issues
Check Your Charging Cable and Adapter
First, examine your Lightning cable for any visible damage, like fraying or bent pins. Try a different cable if you have one. Also, ensure you’re using an Apple-certified adapter. Some third-party adapters may not provide enough power or could be faulty.
Clean Your Charging Port
Dust and debris can accumulate in your iPhone’s charging port, preventing a good connection. Use a toothpick or a soft-bristled brush to gently clean out the port. Be careful not to damage the delicate pins inside.
Restart Your iPhone
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve minor software glitches that might be interfering with charging. Press and hold the power button, then slide to power off. Wait a few seconds and power it back on.
Try a Different Power Source
If your iPhone still won’t charge, try plugging it into a different wall outlet or using a different USB port on your computer. Sometimes, the issue lies with the power source rather than the phone itself.
Update Your iPhone’s Software
Ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Software updates often include bug fixes that could resolve charging issues. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for updates.
Check for Liquid Damage
If your iPhone has been exposed to liquid, it’s possible that the charging port or internal components are damaged. Look for any signs of corrosion or discoloration around the port. If you suspect liquid damage, take your iPhone to an Apple Store or authorized repair center.
Other Possible Issues
| Issue | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Battery is completely drained | Leave your iPhone connected to the charger for at least an hour before attempting to turn it on. |
| Wireless charging not working | Make sure you’re using a Qi-certified wireless charger and that your iPhone’s case isn’t interfering. |
| “Accessory Not Supported” message | Check if your cable and adapter are Apple-certified. Clean the charging port or try a different cable. |
When to Seek Professional Help
If none of the above solutions work, it’s best to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance. They can diagnose the issue and offer repair options if needed.
Key Takeaways
- Charging issues often have simple remedies that users can perform themselves.
- Software updates or restarts can solve some charging problems.
- Proper diagnosis is key to efficiently resolving iPhone charging issues.
Diagnosing Charging Issues
When an iPhone won’t charge, it’s important to check both the hardware and the power source. These steps can help identify the cause of charging issues.
Inspecting the Hardware
Start with the charging cable and the iPhone itself. Look for any signs of damage on the cable, such as fraying or exposed wires. Cables often wear out from regular use. Even small tears can prevent charging. Next, check the iPhone’s lightning port. Debris or dust in the port can block the connection. Gently clean the port with a toothpick or dry, soft brush.
Assessing the Power Source and Accessories
First, make sure the wall outlet or USB port is supplying power. You can test it with another device. Then examine your charger. An Apple certified adapter is the best choice. Non-certified chargers can cause problems. If using a USB hub or an AC adapter, try plugging directly into a different outlet. With wireless charging, ensure the charger is on a flat surface and properly aligned with your iPhone.
Software-Related Solutions and Support
When an iPhone won’t charge, software issues could be at fault. This section guides through resolving software glitches and how to seek support from Apple if necessary.
Resolving Software Glitches
Software glitches can sometimes prevent an iPhone from charging properly. This can manifest as the battery icon not showing the lightning bolt when plugged in, or the iPhone might not respond to a charge at all. A simple and effective step is to perform a force restart. For iPhone 8 or later, quickly press and release the volume up button, then the volume down button, and finally, press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears. For iPhone 7, press and hold both the volume down and power buttons. For iPhone 6s or earlier, press and hold both the home button and the top (or side) button until the Apple logo shows.
If glitches persist, check for an iOS update. Updates are important as they often contain fixes for common software issues. To update, go to Settings, then General, and tap Software Update. If there’s an update, download and install it. Back up important data before starting updates or other software repairs.
Another feature, optimized battery charging, is designed to improve your battery life. It learns from your daily charging habits but sometimes might restrict charging beyond 80%. You can turn this feature off in Settings under Battery if it seems to be a problem.
Utilizing Apple’s Support System
When resolving software issues at home doesn’t work, use Apple’s Support System. If your device is under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, services might be offered at no extra cost. Contact Apple Support online for guided assistance or book an appointment at an Apple Store to speak with a Genius Bar technician. They are trained and Apple certified to diagnose and fix issues.
A Factory reset or restore in DFU mode could be suggested by an Apple tech, but these are last resorts. They erase your iPhone completely which means you should back up all data before turning to these solutions. If there are hardware issues believed to be related to the software a technician might perform these repairs or offer replacement options if necessary.
