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Is your iPhone or iPad not charging even when connected to a power source or wireless charging pad? This can be a frustrating experience, with the device indicating that it’s charging but the battery level never increasing. It could also be charging unreliably, with the Lightning or USB-C cable feeling loose and unable to connect properly, or it might not be charging at all.
In this article, we provide troubleshooting tips, workarounds, and advice on how to fix an iPhone or iPad that won’t charge, including Apple’s official recommendations. We also offer some suggestions on how to repair your device if the solutions mentioned don’t work.
If your device is charging but is slower than usual, check out our article on “How to Quickly Charge an iPhone.” And if your device’s battery doesn’t last long, even when it’s fully charged, then take a look at our guide on “How Long Does an iPhone Battery Last.”
Troubleshooting Tips
- Firstly, ensure that all cables and adapters are plugged in securely and that the power outlet is working.
- If you are connecting to a computer, make sure that it’s on and capable of charging your device. Try connecting to another computer to see if that helps.
- Unplug your device and check the Lightning port for debris. Quickly blow compressed air on it or use a compressed air blower.
- Try using a different cable, power adapter, or USB port one after the other to see if the issue can be fixed.
- If everything seems to work, reconnect your device and wait for 30 minutes. If your device still doesn’t charge then restart it while connected to the power. If restarting is not possible, reset your device.
Workarounds
These are some workarounds that can help charge a defective iPhone. They will not address the underlying causes, and it’s essential to solve the problem permanently.
- Try gently balancing the phone on the connector while it charges. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as it can break the charging cable.
- Surprisingly, we have found that using an old 30-pin iPhone cable with a Lightning adapter works better than a regular Lightning cable.
Do note that these are not official recommendations, but only our experience. And, with any hardware issue, it’s unlikely to improve over time, and it’s essential to resolve the problem.
Charging Issues with iPhone XS and XS Max Running iOS 12
If you have an iPhone XS or XS Max, you may have been bothered by “Chargegate” – a software-related bug that affected the devices shortly after they launched in fall 2018.
The issue manifests in the form of the device showing no sound or activity when connected to a sleeping XS or XS Max using a Lighting cable, despite attempts to wake it up.
Sometimes, unplugging the Lightning cable, making sure the screen is lit up, and reinserting it can start the charging process. We’ve also seen that XS Lightning ports can be a bit unstable, and removing and re-inserting the cable several times can often help.
It was associated with a specific version of iOS 12, and Apple fixed it with an OS update some time ago. Update iOS and see if that helps. However, at the time of writing, some users continue to face this issue even with the latest version of iOS. The best workaround we’ve found is to charge wirelessly.
Have Apple Repair the Lightning or USB-C port
If none of the above solutions work, you should get in touch with Apple support. Although most support ends with the troubleshooting tips listed above, Apple may offer to fix the device instead. They may charge £200 for repairs outside of warranty, and it’s best to check your insurance policies or network providers for coverage. If repair costs outweigh purchasing a new device, opt for the latter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why won’t my iPhone charge even when it says it is?
It could be due to a loose connection, debris in the Lightning port, or a defect in the charging cable, adapter, or USB port. Follow the troubleshooting tips listed above to resolve the issue.
How much does it cost to fix an iPhone that won’t charge?
If your device is out of warranty, Apple may charge £200 or more to fix a Lightning or USB-C port. Check your insurance policies or network providers for cheaper repair options. If repair costs are higher than purchasing a new phone, go for the latter.