9 Effective Ways to Fix iPhone/iPad Screenshot Not Working

"I think after system update 16, my screenshot isn't working. The reset and AssistiveTouch also couldn't help me. The Apple center employees in my city area couldn't help me".

- from Apple Community

The iPhone screenshot feature is very useful, whether it's for recording information or sharing content, it's quick and easy. However, sometimes, you may find that your iPhone is unable to take screenshots. This article will explain the possible reasons why the iPhone screenshot is not working and provide detailed steps to help you easily fix the issue.

Part 1. Why Is My iPhone Screenshot Not Working?

The following are some reasons for the iPhone screenshot not working:

• Incorrect button operation: Different iPhone models have different screenshot button combinations, and incorrect operation can lead to a failed screenshot.
• Insufficient storage space: When the iPhone's storage is full, the system may not be able to save the screenshot.
• System malfunction: Temporary system glitches or bugs in iOS may cause the screenshot feature to malfunction.
• Hardware damage: If the iPhone's physical buttons or screen are damaged, it may also result in the screenshot function not working.

Part 2. How to Fix iPhone Screenshot Not Working?

After understanding the reasons for the "screenshot on iPhone not working" issue, we can try the following 9 methods to resolve it one by one.

Fix 1. Check the Screenshot Method

If the screenshot on iPhone is not working, the first step is to ensure you are using the correct screenshot method. The screenshot method may vary depending on the iPhone model.

• For iPhone 8 and earlier models, you need to press and hold both the "Power" button and the "Home" button to take a screenshot.
• For iPhone X and later models, you should press and hold both the "Volume Up" button and the "Power" button to take a screenshot.

Fix 2. Use AssistiveTouch to Screenshot

If your iPhone buttons are malfunctioning and you can't use the regular screenshot method, you can use the AssistiveTouch feature, which provides a virtual on-screen button to replace the physical buttons. This method is especially useful for users with hardware issues.

Here is how to screenshot iPhone using AssistiveTouch:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "Accessibility" > "Touch".

Step 2. Tap "AssistiveTouch", then enable the feature.

Step 3. A virtual button will appear on the screen. Tap the button, then select "Device" > "More" > "Screenshot".

Fix 3. Use 3D Touch

If you are using an iPhone model that supports 3D Touch (such as iPhone 6s and later), you can take a screenshot using the 3D Touch shortcut. Simply press firmly on the screen to activate the screenshot function. (How to take a screenshot on Android?)

Here are the steps:

Step 1. Make sure 3D Touch is enabled on your iPhone (go to "Settings" > "Touch" > "3D Touch").

Step 2. Firmly press anywhere on the screen until the screenshot option appears.

Step 3. Select the screenshot button to capture the screenshot.

Fix 4. Check Storage Space

When your iPhone runs out of storage space, the screenshot may not be saved, causing the screenshot not to work on iPhone. Checking the storage space and freeing up space can usually resolve this issue.

Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "General" > "iPhone Storage".

Step 2. Check the available storage space. If space is low, you can delete unnecessary apps, photos, or files.

Step 3. After freeing up space, try taking a screenshot again.

Fix 5. Force Restart iPhone

If your iPhone experiences a system malfunction, it may cause the screenshot feature to not work properly. Force restarting can sometimes fix software issues and restore normal functionality.

To force restart the iPhone, follow these steps:

• For iPhone 8 and later models, quickly press the "Volume Up" button, then quickly press the "Volume Down" button, and then press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, press and hold both the "Power" button and the "Volume Down" button for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.
• For iPhone 6s and earlier models, press and hold both the "Power" button and the "Home" button for about 10 seconds until the Apple logo appears.

Fix 6. Update iOS Version

If your iPhone is running an older iOS version, you may encounter known bugs that can cause the screenshot feature to malfunction. Updating to the latest iOS version can fix many system issues, including iPhone screenshot not working.

Here are the steps:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update". (iPhone software update failed?)

Step 2. If an update is available, tap "Download and Install".

Step 3. Wait for the update to complete, then restart your iPhone and try taking a screenshot.

Fix 7. Use iOS System Recovery

If the above methods do not resolve the "iPhone screenshot not working" issue, there may be a deeper system problem. You can use professional tools, such as iOS System Recovery, to fix iPhone system issues. This tool can repair many iOS problems, including the issue of the screenshot on iPhone not working, and it won't cause data loss.

Highlights of iOS System Recovery:

• Fix the screenshot not working on the iPhone without data loss.
• Solve all kinds of system problems on iPhone/iPad devices, including the iPhone getting stuck in recovery mode, the iPhone being in black/blue/red/white screen, the iPhone showing the Apple logo, etc.
• Repair options available: Advanced mode and Standard mode.
• Upgrade or downgrade iOS without the need for iTunes.
• Fully compatible with the latest iPhone 16 and iOS 18.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

Here is how to fix iPhone screenshot not working using iOS System Recovery:

Fix 8. Factory Reset the iPhone

If all methods have failed, restoring to factory settings may be the last resort to fix the issue. Please note that restoring to factory settings will erase all personal data, so make sure to back up your data first.

Here's how it works:

Step 1. Open "Settings" > "General" > "Reset".

Step 2. Select "Erase All Content and Settings". (iPhone won't erase?)

Step 3. Wait for the iPhone to restore to factory settings, then set up your iPhone again.

Fix 9. Contact Apple Support

If you've tried all methods and the issue is still unresolved, it may be due to a hardware malfunction or a more complex system problem. In this case, contacting Apple Support will provide you with professional assistance.

Words in the End

In conclusion, the issue of iPhone screenshots not working can be caused by various factors, but most problems can be resolved using the methods mentioned above. If you encounter more complex system issues, iOS System Recovery is a highly effective tool that can help you quickly fix iPhone system malfunctions and restore the screenshot function.

Hopefully, these methods will help you resolve the issue of screenshot on iPhone not working and provide you with a smoother user experience.

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