Secret Codes guide
Force Restart Your iPhone: How It Works
By Muhammad Shahid ยท ยท 3 min read
Quick answer
Recover an iPhone that has stopped responding. On iPhone 8 and later: press and release volume up, press and release volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Keep holding through the power-off slider โ it takes around ten seconds. A force restart does not erase anything.
| What it does | Recover an iPhone that has stopped responding. |
|---|---|
| Published for | any iPhone |
| Type | Works on all iPhones |
Recover an iPhone that has stopped responding. This page explains what it does, how to use it on an iPhone and which carriers it applies to.
I build Secret Codes: IMEI & Carrier, a free iPhone app with 317 checked codes and guides, including this one. If you would rather tap than memorise, get Secret Codes on the App Store.
What is Force Restart Your iPhone?
On iPhone 8 and later: press and release volume up, press and release volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Keep holding through the power-off slider โ it takes around ten seconds.
A force restart does not erase anything. It is the correct first step for a frozen screen or an iPhone stuck on the logo.
How do I do it?
- Press and quickly release the volume up button.
- Press and quickly release the volume down button.
- Press and hold the side button.
- Keep holding past the power-off slider until the Apple logo appears.
Which carriers does this apply to?
| Published for | any iPhone |
|---|---|
| Type | Works on all iPhones |
| Good to know | The button sequence above covers iPhone 8 and later, including every current model. |

Related iphone calling features
- Review Device Analytics
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- Wi-Fi Assist
- Allow Calls During Focus
See all iphone calling features or every category of iPhone codes.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Force Restart Your iPhone on iPhone?
Recover an iPhone that has stopped responding. On iPhone 8 and later: press and release volume up, press and release volume down, then hold the side button until the Apple logo appears. Keep holding through the power-off slider โ it takes around ten seconds.
What else should I know about Force Restart Your iPhone?
A force restart does not erase anything. It is the correct first step for a frozen screen or an iPhone stuck on the logo.
What are the steps for Force Restart Your iPhone?
1. Press and quickly release the volume up button. 2. Press and quickly release the volume down button. 3. Press and hold the side button. 4. Keep holding past the power-off slider until the Apple logo appears.
Where do I find Force Restart Your iPhone?
On your iPhone, following the steps on this page.
Is there a dial code for Force Restart Your iPhone?
No. On iPhone this is not a dial code, so you use the steps on this page instead.
Which carriers does Force Restart Your iPhone work on?
It is published for any iPhone. The button sequence above covers iPhone 8 and later, including every current model.
Does Force Restart Your iPhone work on Android phones too?
These steps are for iPhone. Android phones have their own menus.
Will Force Restart Your iPhone work outside the US?
The iPhone steps stay the same, although some features depend on your carrier and region.
What if Force Restart Your iPhone does not work on my iPhone?
Check that it applies to your carrier first, because carriers decide which services they offer and can change them. If it should apply to your line, contact your carrier.
What is related to Force Restart Your iPhone?
Review Device Analytics. Read the raw diagnostic logs your iPhone keeps.
What else is in this category?
Check For An iOS Update. Carrier and modem fixes often ship inside iOS updates.
Can I find Force Restart Your iPhone in an app?
Yes. Secret Codes, a free iPhone app, includes it with its steps and carrier details.