Top 6 Fixes to iPhone Keeps Turning On and Off

As you take out your iPhone, you notice it keeps turning off by itself and then back on. The screen goes black unexpectedly and then lights up again without any action from you. If this issue of the iPhone turning off randomly surprises you, here's a guide to help you.

Let's start by understanding what might be causing iPhone keeps turning on and off, and then look at ways to fix it for all iPhone models.

Why does my iPhone keep turning on and off?

You may ask why your iPhone keeps turning on and off. Several factors can contribute to an iPhone repeatedly restarting.

Software Glitches or Bugs
Software-related issues, including corrupt files, failed updates, or incompatible apps, can cause the iPhone to cycle between turning on and off.

Battery Problems
A damaged or deteriorating battery might not provide sufficient power to keep the iPhone running steadily, leading to unexpected shutdowns and restarts.

Hardware Issues
Hardware problems, such as a malfunctioning power button, faulty components, or water damage, can trigger the device to power off and on repeatedly.

Overheating
Excessive heat due to environmental conditions or a malfunctioning component can prompt the iPhone to shut down as a safety measure, causing it to cycle through restarts.

Failed System Update or Restore
An interrupted or failed system update, restore, or jailbreak process can result in an unstable operating system, leading to the iPhone continuously restarting.

Fixes to iPhone keeps turning on and off

When your iPhone keeps shutting off and turning back on, we've outlined 6 solutions to easily resolve this issue. Often referred to as a boot loop, this prevalent problem can stem from various software or hardware issues. Try these solutions one after another until your issue gets fixed.

1# Force restart iPhone

One of the easiest solutions to try when your iPhone keeps turning off and on is to force restart your device. This can swiftly rule out the chance of malfunctioning apps draining your battery excessively and the possibility of a crashed iOS software causing your iPhone to shut down abruptly. Here’s how to restart iPhone depending on the device model.

• iPhone 8 and later with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume + button > Perform the same operation on the Volume - button > Press the Side button and release when you see the Apple logo.
• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume - button and the Power button > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the Power button and the Home button for seconds > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

2# Charge your iPhone

If your device's battery is draining rapidly, the first step is to connect it to a charger. Once connected, observe whether the device shows the charging status and the battery level. If the battery level is low or doesn't seem to charge despite being plugged in, there might be an issue causing rapid battery drainage. Conversely, if the battery shows a full or partially charged status, the problem might lie elsewhere.

Plug the device into a wall outlet or USB port and let it charge undisturbed for an hour. If the device doesn't indicate any charging activity, attempt using a different cable or USB port. After ensuring it's fully charged, check if the issue has been resolved. If the problem persists, move on to the next troubleshooting solution.

3# Check iPhone battery health

Checking the iPhone's battery health provides insights into its charging capabilities and how the battery's capacity influences the device's overall performance. Additionally, this check can offer valuable data to assess whether it's necessary to consider replacing the battery.

To check your iPhone battery health, go to the Settings app on iPhone > Scroll down and click Battery > Battery Health.

From here, you can check the Maximum Capacity. If it is pretty low, then it might signal a potential issue with the battery that lead to iPhone keeps turning off and on by itself.

In fact, anything aside from the status of "Peak Performance Capability" might signal a potential issue with the battery.

4# Update iOS to the latest version

If everything looks good in battery, consider updating your iPhone to the latest version of iOS. This method can solve many iPhone issues, like iPhone keeps turning on, iPhone keeps switching to silent, and etc. Update can be done rightly on your iPhone by going to Settings > General > Software Update and then clicking Download and Install. 

However, it’s hard to go with this way when your iPhone keeps turning on and off. As such, using iTunes to upgrade iOS is necessary.

Steps to update iOS using iTunes

Step 1. Download the latest iTunes on your computer > Launch iTunes, and connect your iPhone to computer using USB.

Step 2. Click the Device icon within iTunes > Locate and click the Summary tab under Settings > Click the Check for Update button.

Step 3. When iTunes detects an available iOS update and prompts a window > Click Install > Finally, enter your passcode to start downloading and install the latest version of iOS on your iPhone. 

5# Put your iPhone into DFU mode

By now, your iPhone should have ceased its repeat shutdowns. If the issue persists, performing a DFU restore, which involves wiping all data, can serve as a solution before considering a visit to the Genius Bar for a hardware evaluation.

To avoid losing any important content, make sure you have a recent backup to restore from before putting your iPhone into DFU mode using the instructions below.

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to computer and launch iTunes > Get iPhone into DFU mode with steps to force restart iPhone listed in 1# solution.

Step 2. Click OK button from the prompted dialog box > Then, select Restore iPhone button.

6# Head to Apple Support for help

In the event that a DFU mode restore doesn't resolve the issue and your iPhone continues to power on and off, it strongly suggests a potential hardware problem. In such cases, it's advisable to schedule an appointment at your nearest Apple Store, especially if your device is covered by the AppleCare+ protection plan. To expedite the process, remember to book an appointment to minimize any unnecessary wait time for an Apple Technician.

Conclusion

It can disrupt iPhone normal functionality and usage when iPhone keeps turning on and off. Understanding the potential reasons behind this issue is crucial. By implementing the suggested fixes, such as force restarting the device, updating software, checking battery health, and performing a DFU restore, hope you can often resolve the problem.

However, if the issue persists, seeking professional assistance to diagnose and address hardware-related issues is the recommended course of action to ensure the iPhone returns to normal operation.