How to Backup an iPhone With a Cracked or Broken Screen

Key takeaways:

  • Backing up an iPhone with a broken screen is possible using various methods
  • Using iTunes or Finder on a trusted computer is the easiest way to backup a broken iPhone
  • Third-party tools like Dr.Fone and iMobie PhoneRescue can help backup data from a broken iPhone
  • Enabling VoiceOver or using a Bluetooth keyboard can help navigate a broken iPhone screen

If you’ve accidentally dropped your iPhone and cracked or shattered the screen, your first concern might be about losing all the important data stored on the device. Fortunately, there are several ways to backup an iPhone with a broken screen, even if the touchscreen is completely unresponsive.

Using iTunes or Finder

The easiest way to backup an iPhone with a broken screen is by using iTunes (for Windows and older macOS versions) or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later). Here’s how:

  1. Connect your iPhone to a computer that you’ve previously trusted using a USB cable.
  2. If prompted, use the VoiceOver method (explained below) to trust the computer.
  3. Open iTunes or Finder and select your iPhone from the list of devices.
  4. Click on “Back Up Now” to start backing up your iPhone.

If you haven’t previously trusted the computer, you might need to enter your iPhone’s passcode to trust it. If the touchscreen is unresponsive, try using a Bluetooth keyboard or the VoiceOver method to enter the passcode.

Using Third-Party Tools

There are several third-party tools available that can help you backup data from a broken iPhone. Some popular options include:

  • Dr.Fone – Recover (iOS)
  • iMobie PhoneRescue
  • EaseUS MobiSaver
  • iSkySoft Toolbox – Recover (iOS)

These tools can help you recover data directly from a broken iPhone, even if you can’t access the device’s screen. They can also extract data from an iTunes or iCloud backup, if you have one available.

Enabling VoiceOver

If your iPhone’s screen is partially responsive, you can try enabling VoiceOver to navigate the device and backup your data. Here’s how:

  1. Press and hold the Home button (or the Side button on newer iPhones) to activate Siri.
  2. Say “Turn on VoiceOver” to enable the accessibility feature.
  3. Use the responsive parts of the screen to navigate to the Settings app and enable iCloud backup or connect to a computer for iTunes backup.

Using a Bluetooth Keyboard

If your iPhone’s touchscreen is completely unresponsive, you can try using a Bluetooth keyboard to control the device. Here’s how:

  1. Connect a Bluetooth keyboard to your iPhone.
  2. Use the arrow keys to navigate to the Settings app.
  3. Enable iCloud backup or connect to a computer for iTunes backup.

Fixing the Screen

If none of the above methods work, your last resort might be to get the screen fixed by a professional. Apple and many third-party repair shops offer screen replacement services for iPhones. Once the screen is fixed, you should be able to backup your data normally.

FAQ

Can I backup my iPhone without the screen?

Yes, you can backup an iPhone even if the screen is broken or unresponsive. You can use iTunes or Finder on a trusted computer, third-party data recovery tools, or enable accessibility features like VoiceOver to control the device.

How do I unlock an iPhone with a broken screen?

If your iPhone’s touchscreen is partially responsive, you can use VoiceOver to navigate to the passcode screen and enter your passcode. Alternatively, you can connect a Bluetooth keyboard and use the arrow keys to navigate to the passcode screen.

Will I lose my data if I get my iPhone screen fixed?

In most cases, getting your iPhone screen fixed will not cause data loss. However, it’s always a good idea to backup your data before getting any repairs done, just in case something goes wrong during the repair process.

Can I backup my iPhone to iCloud with a broken screen?

Yes, you can backup your iPhone to iCloud even with a broken screen. If the touchscreen is partially responsive, you can use VoiceOver to navigate to the Settings app and enable iCloud backup. If the touchscreen is completely unresponsive, you can connect a Bluetooth keyboard and use the arrow keys to navigate to the Settings app.

How much does it cost to fix an iPhone screen?

The cost of fixing an iPhone screen varies depending on the model and the extent of the damage. For newer iPhone models, screen replacement can cost anywhere from $129 to $329 if done through Apple. Third-party repair shops might offer lower prices, but it’s important to choose a reputable shop to avoid further damage to your device.