There’s nothing more annoying than picking up your tablet to watch a video, reply to an email, or browse the internet, only to find the screen isn’t responding. If you’re dealing with this today, don’t worry; you’re not alone. A tablet touchscreen issue can pop up unexpectedly, but the good news is that many of these problems are fixable without needing a brand-new device.
If your tablet’s touchscreen is not working properly because of a software glitch or a hardware issue, don’t worry. This blog will walk you through what might be causing the problem and some simple steps you can try at home to fix it before reaching out to a professional.
Common Causes of a Tablet Touchscreen Not Responding
If your tablet doesn’t seem to register your touch, don’t worry; there are a few common causes we can check. Let’s explore the most typical reasons together.
1. Software Bugs or Freezing
Sometimes, your tablet’s operating system might freeze because of too many open apps or a background process crashing. It can feel like the screen isn’t responding, but usually, it’s just the system taking a moment to catch up.
2. Screen Damage or Cracks
A cracked screen or internal damage from a fall can interfere with the digitiser, the part responsible for registering touch input. Even if there’s no visible crack, a drop could loosen internal components.
3. Faulty Screen Protector or Dirt
A dirty or thick screen protector might cause touch issues, as oils, dust, or moisture can reduce sensitivity and responsiveness.
4. Battery Issues
If your battery is swollen or malfunctioning, it might be pressing against internal components, including the display, affecting touch functionality.
How to Fix Tablet Touch Screen Issues at Home
Before you panic or rush to a service centre, here are some touchscreen repair tips for your tablet that you can try:
1. Reboot the Device
Yes, the classic “turn it off and on again” works more often than not. A soft reboot clears temporary software bugs that might be affecting the touchscreen.
2. Remove Accessories
Remove your case and screen protector. Gently clean the screen with a soft microfiber cloth. If your tablet responds after this, the issue may be due to dirt or poorly fitted accessories.
3. Boot into Safe Mode
Safe mode allows your tablet to run without any third-party apps. If the touch screen works fine in this mode, an app is likely causing the issue.
- Android: Press and hold the power button until options appear > Tap and hold “Power off” > Select “Safe Mode”.
- iPad: iOS doesn’t offer Safe Mode in the same way, but you can reset all settings to see if an app configuration is causing interference.
4. Update Your Software
Check if there are any available system updates. Manufacturers often release fixes for known touchscreen bugs through these updates.
5. Factory Reset (As a Last Resort)
If nothing works, and you’ve ruled out hardware damage, you can back up your data and do a factory reset. This will erase everything, so only try it if you’re confident.
Note: Always back up your files before performing a reset.
When It’s Time for Professional Help
If you’ve tried everything and your tablet still isn’t responding, it might be time to get expert help. A technician can check if the issue is with the digitiser or other internal parts and suggest a cost-effective solution.
In many cases, screen replacements aren’t as expensive as you might think. Repair shops like Fone World Hove not only offer professional tablet screen repairs but also handle battery replacement for both tablets and phones. If you own a Samsung tablet or mobile device, don’t worry; we also offer reliable Samsung phone repair services so you can keep all your gadgets in top condition.
Preventing Future Touchscreen Problems
To avoid repeating the same hassle in the future, take a few precautionary steps:
1. Use a High-Quality Screen Protector
Cheap protectors can interfere with touch sensitivity. Pick a reputable brand with good reviews.
2. Handle with Care
It might go without saying, but dropping your device, even once, can lead to screen responsiveness problems later.
3. Regular Cleaning
Wipe your screen down with a lint-free cloth to keep oil and dust build-up at bay. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
4. Avoid Overcharging
Overcharging or using third-party chargers can lead to battery swelling, which can push against the screen from the inside.
FAQs
1. Why is my tablet screen not responding even after rebooting?
If a reboot doesn’t fix the issue, the problem may be with the hardware, possibly the digitiser or battery swelling. You’ll need a technician for this.
2. Can I fix a tablet screen that doesn’t respond to touch myself?
You can try basic troubleshooting, like cleaning the screen, removing screen protectors, or rebooting. For internal repairs, it’s best to consult a professional.
3. How do I know if it’s a software or hardware problem?
Boot your tablet in safe mode. If it works, it’s a software issue. If not, it’s probably hardware.
4. How long does it take to repair a tablet touchscreen?
Most professional services can replace a screen within a day, depending on part availability. Always check with your local repair shop.
5. Is it worth repairing an old tablet screen?
It depends on the model and the cost of repair. For newer tablets, repairs are usually more affordable than replacement. Older tablets may not justify the cost unless they’re still functional.
6. Are screen protectors causing my touchscreen to be less responsive?
Yes, especially if they’re thick or poor quality. Always go for high-quality, touch-sensitive screen protectors made for your tablet model.
Final Thoughts
A non-responsive tablet screen can disrupt your day, but it’s usually fixable. With patience and some basic troubleshooting, like cleaning the screen, rebooting, or exploring safe mode or updates, you can often resolve the issue yourself before heading to the repair shop.
And if all else fails, Fone World Hove is always ready to assist with professional repairs, including screen and battery replacements in Hove. So don’t stress; get your device checked and back in working order in no time!