how to turn on phone with broken power button

3 min read 16-01-2025

how to turn on phone with broken power button

Having a broken power button on your phone is incredibly frustrating. It renders your device seemingly useless, leaving you stranded without access to your contacts, apps, or important information. Fortunately, there are several ways to power on your phone even if the power button is malfunctioning. This guide will walk you through various methods, depending on your phone's operating system and model.

Understanding the Problem: Why Your Power Button Might Be Broken

Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand why your power button might have stopped working. Common causes include:

Physical Damage: The button itself might be physically broken or jammed due to drops, impacts, or excessive wear and tear.
Internal Hardware Failure: Sometimes, the internal components connected to the power button malfunction, preventing it from registering presses.
Software Glitch: Rarely, a software glitch can interfere with the power button's functionality.

Methods to Turn On Your Phone Without the Power Button

The best method for turning on your phone with a broken power button depends heavily on the phone's brand and operating system (Android or iOS).

Method 1: Using AssistiveTouch (Android & iOS)

Many modern smartphones offer an accessibility feature called AssistiveTouch. This creates an on-screen button that mimics the power button's functionality.

Android: Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Interaction and dexterity > AssistiveTouch. Turn it on. An on-screen button will appear. You can use this button to power off and on your phone.
iOS: Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch. Enable it. The on-screen button allows you to access various actions, including turning off the device and subsequently restarting it. Note that simply turning off via AssistiveTouch won't work; you'll have to hold the button down.

Method 2: Using a USB Debugging Connection (Android)

If you've previously enabled USB debugging on your Android phone, you might be able to turn it on remotely using a computer.

Connect your phone to your computer via USB.
Use an appropriate app or software to interact with your Android device remotely. This is dependent on the software you've previously set up. Examples include ADB (Android Debug Bridge). Note: Setting up ADB requires technical knowledge; detailed instructions are available online, but this isn't a beginner-friendly solution.

Method 3: Using an External Power Button (Android)

While less common, some Android phones allow the use of a hardware button mapped to the power function. This usually requires root access and a custom recovery.

This method is highly technical and involves a risk of damaging your device. Only attempt it if you are comfortable with advanced Android procedures.

Method 4: Force Restart (Android & iOS)

A force restart essentially simulates a battery pull. This doesn't work for all devices. Methods vary by manufacturer and model, but generally involve pressing and holding a combination of volume buttons and the home button (if applicable) for several seconds.

Search online for "[Your Phone Model] force restart" to find the specific button combination for your device. This is often the most effective immediate solution.

Method 5: Check for a Software Update (Android & iOS)

It's possible a software update has introduced a feature that might help. Look for updates in the Settings app on your device.

What to Do After Turning Your Phone On

Once you've successfully powered on your phone, it's crucial to address the underlying issue. Here's what you should do:

Backup your data: Immediately back up your phone's data to prevent data loss.
Contact your carrier or phone manufacturer: Seek professional assistance to repair or replace the broken power button. This may involve warranty claims or third-party repair services.

Preventative Measures

Preventing a broken power button in the future is more straightforward. Avoid dropping your phone, use a protective case, and avoid excessive force when pressing the button.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to turning on your phone with a broken power button. Remember to always consult your phone's manual or search online for specific instructions relating to your device model. If all else fails, professional repair is usually the best option.