How to Force Restart a Frozen iPad
Follow these precise steps to force restart an unresponsive iPad and restore functionality without losing your data.
- Press the Volume Up button. Locate the Volume Up button on the side of your iPad. Press and quickly release it. Ensure you do not hold the button down.
- Press the Volume Down button. Immediately follow the first step by pressing and quickly releasing the Volume Down button. These actions must be performed in rapid succession.
- Hold the Top Button. Press and hold the Top Button (the power button). Keep holding it even as the 'slide to power off' slider appears on the screen. Do not release the button until the Apple logo appears.
- Wait for the reboot. Release the button once the Apple logo displays. The iPad will perform a cold boot cycle and return to the Lock Screen. Enter your passcode to resume normal operation.
- Check for system updates. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to ensure your iPadOS is current. Frequently, freezes are caused by legacy software bugs that have been patched in newer releases.