Revision to iPhone Touch ID Not Working
| ** When testing after the reset, it is best to set up as a new device. Resist the urge to restore your backup until you have confirmed the hardware is functional on a bare OS. | |
| - | == |
| + | == Physical Damage to the Button == |
| Just like anything else, physical breakage or liquid contact can cause the home button to stop functioning. This is more prevalent on the touch sensitive style buttons present in the iPhone 7 or newer, but can occur regardless of model. | |
| * If this is the case, and Touch ID is important to you, having your screen replaced by Apple is presently the only solution. The Touch ID sensor cannot be replaced independent of the display and Apple's pairing software is necessary to allow Touch ID to function. | |
| - | == |
| + | == Torn Cables == |
| Many of the issues surrounding home button functionality are a result of repair attempts. The home button assembly itself uses tiny ribbon cables to transmit its electrical signals. As such, they are easier to damage inadvertently. | |
| * Check for tears in the flex cables attached to the home button itself. They appear most often in corners and can be difficult to spot with the naked eye. If your cable is torn, and Touch ID is a necessity to you, seek repair from Apple. Repairing the home button cable to restore Touch ID is feasible, but requires running tiny jumper wires. Even many seasoned microsolderers avoid these repairs. | |
| - | == |
| + | == Not Native Home Button == |
| The logic board and home button from any iPhone with Touch ID are paired together by Apple during the assembly process. If your screen was replaced by an independent repair shop, or you replaced it yourself, this button needs to be moved from the original screen to the new one to retain fingerprint reading capabilities. | |
| * If you do not, getting a screen replacement from Apple is presently your only option. They alone have the ability to pair a new home button to a logic board. If you have an iPhone SE 2022, you have the option to repair it yourself, but be aware of the [link|https://www.ifixit.com/News/59239/apples-self-repair-vision-is-here-and-its-got-a-catch|caveats of Apple’s Self Repair Program]. | |
| - | == |
| + | == Logic Board Malfunction == |
| The logic board is the hub for the vast majority of an iPhone's functionality. Any number of the small components on the board may have failed or become damaged, and is a safe assumption of cause if nothing else on this page has worked. | |
| * Check for obvious signs of a board issue - burned or cracked components, liquid residue, corrosion or bend. If there are signs of liquid the [guide|95280|iPhone Liquid Damage Guide|new_window=true] might help. | |
| - | * Replacing the logic board is often the most practical solution for a DIYer |
| + | * Replacing the logic board is often the most practical solution for a DIYer whose board has failed. But due to Touch ID pairing, replacing the board will break fingerprint reading functionality in all cases and home button function as well in the iPhone 7 and newer. |
| * Contrary to popular belief, the board itself can be repaired. However, it requires specialized tools and microsoldering know-how. This is not something most people can do themselves, but many independent repair shops can do it for you! Ask around to find a board level repair specialists near you. | |
| [comment]conclusion[/comment] | |
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