Do not press on cracked, separated, swollen, smoking, or dangerously hot devices. Major impact or liquid exposure should be assessed by qualified service.
Look for signs of life
Call or message the device, press volume buttons, connect headphones, or connect to a trusted computer. Sound, vibration, or computer recognition can show the device is operating behind a failed or frozen display.
Connect reliable power
Use a known-working compatible charger and wall outlet. A deeply discharged device may need time before showing a symbol.
Use the model-specific restart
Follow the manufacturer’s exact restart sequence for the model. A forced restart normally differs from a factory reset and does not usually erase data.
Separate software from display hardware
If the screen returns after a restart, update the system and recent apps. If the device responds but never shows an image, or the issue followed impact or liquid exposure, display hardware becomes more likely.
Choose the next step
Do not use a factory restore as the first test for a blank display. Restore can erase data and will not repair a physically failed screen.