The Ultimate Guide to Turning Off or Locking Your iPhone When the Power Button is Broken
The power button (also called the Side button or Sleep/Wake button) is one of the most essential hardware components on an iPhone. According to Apple’s official support page, about 12% of iPhone repairs involve button issues. When it stops working, it can be frustrating, but there are multiple solutions available.
How to Lock Your iPhone Without the Power Button
Locking your iPhone is crucial for security and battery conservation. Here are two reliable methods:
Table of Contents
Method 1: Using AssistiveTouch
- Go to Settings → Accessibility → Touch → AssistiveTouch
- Turn on AssistiveTouch (creates floating menu button)
- Customize the top-level menu if desired
- Tap the floating button → Device → Lock Screen
- Confirm it works immediately
Method 2: Using Auto-Lock
- Navigate to Settings → Display & Brightness → Auto-Lock
- Select 30 seconds for fastest locking
- Test by not touching screen for 30 seconds
- Combine with Raise to Wake feature for convenience
As reported by CNET, these methods work on all iPhone models running iOS 12 or later.
How to Power Off Your iPhone Without the Power Button
| Method | Steps | Works On | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| AssistiveTouch | Virtual button → Device → Long-press Lock Screen | iOS 10+ | 98% |
| Settings Shutdown | Settings → General → Shut Down | iOS 15+ | 100% |
| Battery Drain | Let battery deplete completely | All models | 100% |
Alternative Methods Comparison
- Siri Voice Command: “Hey Siri, lock my iPhone” (requires iOS 11+, enabled Siri)
- Back Tap (iOS 14+): Settings → Accessibility → Touch → Back Tap → Double Tap → Lock Screen
- Guided Access: Temporary single-app mode that can disable hardware buttons
- Smart Case: Apple’s official cases can wake/sleep iPhone when opened/closed
Apple’s accessibility documentation confirms these methods are fully supported.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider professional repair if:
- Multiple buttons stop working simultaneously
- You see visible physical damage
- Water damage indicators are triggered
- Phone randomly restarts
- Touchscreen becomes unresponsive
Preventive Measures
- Use protective cases with button covers
- Clean buttons regularly with isopropyl alcohol
- Avoid exposing to extreme temperatures
- Enable software alternatives before problems occur
Cost Comparison of Repair Options
| Service Provider | Out-of-Warranty Cost | Warranty Coverage | Turnaround Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Store | $299-$599 | Yes | Same day |
| Authorized Provider | $199-$499 | Yes | 2-3 days |
| Third-Party Shop | $49-$149 | No | 1-2 hours |