Is Your iPhone Not Charging?

Few things are more frustrating than plugging in your iPhone only to discover the battery percentage isn't increasing. Fortunately, many charging problems are caused by simple issues that you can fix yourself.

Before assuming your battery has failed, work through these troubleshooting steps.

1. Inspect Your Charging Cable

Look for:

  • Frayed wires
  • Bent connectors
  • Burn marks
  • Loose USB connections

If possible, test with another Apple-certified charging cable.

2. Try a Different Charger

Sometimes the charger—not the phone—is the problem.

Test:

  • Another wall adapter
  • Another USB-C power brick
  • A computer USB port
  • A MagSafe charger (if supported)

3. Check the Charging Port

Pocket lint is one of the most common reasons an iPhone won't charge.

Using a flashlight, inspect the charging port for dust or debris.

Clean it carefully using a wooden toothpick or a soft anti-static brush. Never insert anything metal into the charging port.

4. Restart Your iPhone

Temporary software glitches can interrupt charging.

Force restart your iPhone and reconnect the charger.

5. Let It Cool Down

If your iPhone becomes too hot, charging may pause automatically to protect the battery.

Allow it to cool before trying again.

6. Update iOS

Open:

Settings → General → Software Update

Install any available updates.

7. Try Wireless Charging

If wireless charging works but wired charging doesn't, the charging port may require service.

8. Check Battery Health

Go to:

Settings → Battery → Battery Health

A battery with significantly reduced capacity may no longer charge normally.

When Should You Contact Apple?

Professional service is recommended if:

  • The charging port is physically damaged.
  • Liquid entered the device.
  • No charger works.
  • The battery rapidly drains after charging.

Related Reading

  • Why Is My iPhone Charging So Slowly?
  • How to Check iPhone Battery Health
  • Why Does My iPhone Stop Charging at 80%?