Restarting an iPhone can often fix minor glitches, app problems, or other issues without affecting your data. If your iPhone is frozen or the screen isn’t responding, you can force restart it instead.
On the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the restart method depends on whether the device is working normally or has become unresponsive.
How to Restart iPhone 18 Pro or 18 Pro Max
A normal restart involves turning off the iPhone and then switching it back on. You can use the physical buttons to do this. For detailed power-off instructions, see our guide on how to turn off iPhone 18 Pro or 18 Pro Max.
- Press and hold the Side button and either Volume button together until the power-off screen appears.
- Drag the slide to power off slider to the right.
- Wait for the iPhone to turn off completely.
- Press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.
Your iPhone will start up normally.
Restart iPhone 18 Pro Without Using the Buttons
If the physical buttons aren’t working properly, you can restart the iPhone using AssistiveTouch.
- Open Settings and go to Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch.
- Turn on AssistiveTouch.
- Tap the floating AssistiveTouch button on the screen.
- Tap Device, then More.
- Tap Restart and confirm when prompted.
The iPhone will turn off and start up again automatically.
How to Force Restart iPhone 18 Pro or 18 Pro Max
If your iPhone is frozen, stuck on a screen, or the touchscreen isn’t responding, a normal restart may not be possible. In this situation, you can force restart your iPhone 18 Pro using its physical buttons.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Side button.
- Keep holding the Side button until the Apple logo appears, then release it.
The iPhone will restart automatically.
Note: The Apple logo may take several seconds to appear. Keep holding the Side button until you see it.
What If iPhone 18 Pro Won’t Turn On?
If your iPhone doesn’t turn on after a force restart, connect it to a power source. Let it charge for at least 30 minutes, then try the force-restart sequence again.
If the screen remains black, the iPhone may need further troubleshooting or service.
Does Force Restart Erase Data on iPhone 18 Pro?
No. A force restart does not erase your photos, apps, messages, or other personal data. It simply forces the iPhone to restart when it isn’t responding normally.
