The iPad’s home button is a crucial part of the device’s user interface. It allows you to return to the home screen, access the app switcher, and even use Touch ID or Face ID. However, like any other physical component, the home button can sometimes malfunction. If you find yourself in a situation where your iPad’s home button is not working as it should, don’t worry; there are several potential solutions to this issue.
If your iPad home button is not working, this article discusses various reasons responsible for the home button malfunction and a few fixes.
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Why is the iPad home button not working?
There can be various reasons that might be affecting your iPad’s home button.
- Water Damage: If your iPad has been exposed to water, it could cause the problem.
- Dirt and Debris: Dust or dirt might have collected around the button, making it unresponsive.
- Software Problem: Your button might not be working due to a software issue messing with its function.
- Hardware Trouble: There could be a problem inside your iPad’s screen that’s stopping the button from working correctly.
- Physical Damage: It’s possible that the button itself is damaged and needs to be changed.
- External Factors: Sometimes, an external factor could be why your button isn’t functioning properly. A screen protector or a protective case could cause this.
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How to fix it?
Here are a few methods that might help you fix the issue:
Clean the Home button
Dust and tiny particles can build up near the home button, causing it to malfunction. To clean it, take a soft, lint-free cloth or a gentle brush and carefully remove any dirt or debris. It’s important to turn off your iPad before cleaning to prevent accidental touches on the screen.
Remove external protection
Take off any accessories like screen protectors or cases affecting your home button. Test the button again. If it works without the accessories, consider getting a better-fitting case.
Restart your iPad
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix software glitches. Restart your iPad to see if it resolves the issue.
Gently tap the back
If there’s something loose inside your iPad that’s interfering with the home button, tapping the back of the device near the button might help. Not too hard, not too soft, just a firm tap.
Reset all settings
Resetting all your settings back to default can help if some settings interfere with the home button. Here are the steps to reset all settings on the iPad:
- Open the Settings app and tap on General.
- Scroll down and tap on Reset.
- Now, tap on Reset all Settings.
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Factory reset iPad
If none of the above fixes the issue, you might need to erase all data from your iPad. Before doing this, make sure to create a backup. Here are the steps :
- Open the Settings app and tap on General.
- Scroll down and tap on Reset.
- Now, tap on Erase All Content and Settings.
Enable AssistiveTouch
If the home button still doesn’t work even after performing a factory reset, then the best option is to get in touch with Apple support or a professional technician. Still, till then, you can enable the Assistive touch. It will let you control the buttons from your screen. Here’s how to enable it:
- Go to Settings and tap on Accessibility.
- In Accessibility, tap on Touch.
- Now, tap on AssistiveTouch.
- Turn the toggle on beside AssistiveTouch.
Contact Apple
If none of these steps solves the problem, it might be a broken button or an internal issue. Get in touch with Apple for further assistance and potential repairs.
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