Lines on a phone screen are usually a display problem that can sometimes be fixed with software steps before you need a repair.
What causes lines on phone screen
This means the cause could be a temporary software glitch or a hardware failure, and the only way to know is to work through the troubleshooting sequence. Physical damage from dropping or pressure can crack or damage display components, resulting in lines. Loose internal connections between the display and circuitry can also cause lines. Water damage can harm internal components including the display and lead to lines. Electric interference from nearby electronic devices or faulty wiring can disrupt the display and create lines.
How to fix lines on an iPhone screen
Apple’s official guidance for screen lines follows a four-step sequence. Try these in order:
- Try to restart the device first.
- If the iPhone cannot restart, force restart it.
- If restarting does not fix the issue, restore the device.
- If the issue still appears after restore, contact Apple Support.
Before these steps, remove the screen protector to check if it is causing the lines. Clean the screen with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt, grime, or fingerprints that can cause lines. Apple’s service pages route iPhone screen repair through a Genius Bar or Apple Authorized Service Provider. If you need a screen protector application and repair, Apple-certified technicians can handle both during the same visit.
How to fix lines on an Android screen
If you have an Android phone with screen lines, check manufacturer support for your specific model. For a related display issue, you may also want to learn how to fix bubbles on screen protector, which is a separate problem that can sometimes be mistaken for a screen defect.
When to get professional screen repair
If lines remain after you have tried restarting, force restarting, and restoring the device, the issue is likely hardware-related. Apple’s service pages emphasize getting repair from Apple-certified support using genuine Apple parts. Apple says iPhone screen service is available at a Genius Bar or Apple Authorized Service Provider. To minimize risk of future lines, use a screen protector to minimize risk of scratches and damage that can lead to lines. Handle the phone with care and use a protective case to minimize risk of drops and impacts. Avoid excessive heat and cold which can cause LCD malfunction and lines. Avoid applying excessive pressure on the screen when tapping or swiping. Limit exposure to direct sunlight to prevent screen overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do lines appear on my phone screen?
Lines can appear due to physical damage, a software glitch, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
Can screen lines be fixed with software?
If the lines disappear after a restart or restore, the cause was software.
How can I tell if lines on my phone screen are a hardware problem?
The retrieved Apple pages do not give a formal hardware test for lines on the screen. The practical test is to complete the full software sequence: if lines remain after a restore, the problem is almost certainly hardware.
Where can I get an iPhone screen serviced?
Apple-certified repair with genuine parts is the recommended path.
What exact Apple steps are documented for screen lines?
Apple’s retrieved support page says: “Try to restart your device. If you can't restart, force restart your device. If this doesn't work, restore your device. If you still see the issue after you restore, contact Apple Support.”
Are there any documented prevention steps for screen lines?
Related reading: How To Fix Ink On Phone Screen.
