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iPad screen unresponsive

Pls help me unlock my iPad. I somehow turned on something to do with voice, and now my iPad is unresponsive. I cannot swipe the turn off notice and when I type in my passcode it doesn’t register. What can I do?

thank you for helping an old lady.

7 replies

Okay - try disabling Voiceover with a triple-click of the physical top-button.


If that doesn't work, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page.


Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases from a different Apple device using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

I have done these steps and get the option to shut down but screen not responding to swipe. Also tried to enter passcode but numbers don’t register. I am getting frustrated. I thank you for your response anyway.

You appear to have activated the Voiceover function.


Activate Siri (say "Hey Siri" or press and hold the top/home button) and say, "Turn off VoiceOver."

Have you tried to force restart it to see if the issues persist?


If iPad isn’t responding, do one of the following:

  • On an iPad with a Home button: Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.
  • On other iPad models: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the top button. When the Apple logo appears, release the button.


connect your iPad to its Power Adapter and allow the iPad to charge undisturbed for at least and hour - or preferably overnight. Then, while still connected to external power, try a forced-restart - noting that when you see the power-off slider, you must continue to hold the physical top button:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button; do not release the button until...
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.




When performed correctly, your iPad will restart without interacting with the iPad screen.


Thanks LotusPilot. I followed your instructions to the letter. The iPad restarted and when the initial screen came up I still cannot sign in with passcode. Pls see attached photo of my attempt

Yes that is what I did. I did what you said and it’s still not responding. I appreciate your time in trying to help me. I guess a new iPad is in my future.