A broken iPhone screen can make it seem impossible to back up your data. Fortunately, there are ways to manage this task. One solution is using iCloud or iTunes with a computer that’s previously trusted by your iPhone. If your screen is still somewhat responsive, these methods can save your photos, contacts, and more.
Connecting your iPhone to a computer can be an effective method too. Software like VoiceOver on a Mac or specific iOS data management tools can guide you through the process even if you can’t see the screen. This way, you can keep your important files safe and secure.
A Bluetooth keyboard paired with your iPhone can also help navigate backup steps. This works especially well if your device still has some functionality. With these methods, you can successfully back up your iPhone data even with a broken screen.
🧠Step 1: Assess the Damage
Before you start, determine how bad the screen damage is:
- Touch still works:Â You can back up normally via iCloud or iTunes/Finder.
- Touch doesn’t work but display is visible: You might use an external keyboard or mouse.
- Display is black/unresponsive: You’ll need a computer connection or third-party software.
đź’ľ Method 1: Back Up via iCloud (if touch still works)
- Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi and power.
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now.
- Wait for the process to complete — you can verify under Last Successful Backup.
đź’ˇ Tip: If your screen is cracked but still responsive, this is the easiest and safest method.
(Source: wikiHow)
đź’» Method 2: Back Up Using a Computer (Finder or iTunes)
If your screen is unresponsive but the phone powers on:
- Connect your iPhone to a Mac or Windows PC using a Lightning cable.
- Open Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier).
- If prompted, trust this computer on your iPhone — you may need to enter your passcode.
- If you can’t access the screen, see Method 3 below.
- Click your iPhone in the sidebar, then select Back Up Now.
- Choose whether to encrypt the backup (recommended for passwords & health data).
(Source: EaseUS)
⌨️ Method 3: Use an External Keyboard or Mouse (if touch doesn’t work)
If your screen shows content but touch is dead:
- Get a Lightning-to-USB adapter (Apple Camera Adapter).
- Connect a wired keyboard or mouse.
- Use VoiceOver (hold the Side/Power button and say “Turn on VoiceOver”) to navigate.
- Enter your passcode and trust the computer when prompted.
- Proceed with a computer backup as in Method 2.
(Source: wikiHow)
🧰 Method 4: Use Third-Party Backup or Data Extraction Tools
If your iPhone is completely black or unresponsive, you can try specialized software such as:
- UltFone iOS Data Manager
- iMobie AnyTrans
- Tenorshare iCareFone
- EaseUS MobiMover
These tools can often:
- Detect your iPhone even if the screen doesn’t work
- Extract files (photos, messages, contacts, etc.)
- Create a full backup to your computer
⚙️ Method 5: Use “Find My iPhone” (if iCloud Backup is enabled)
If your iPhone is lost or completely dead but previously had iCloud Backup turned on:
- Go to iCloud.com → Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Check Settings → iCloud Storage → Backups.
- Your most recent backup will show there — you can restore it later to a new device.
🧩 Bonus Tip: Enable Automatic iCloud Backups for the Future
Once your device is repaired or replaced:
- Go to Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup.
- Turn on Back Up This iPhone.
- This ensures your data is always safe — even if your phone breaks again.
âś… Summary Table
| Scenario | Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Screen cracked but touch works | iCloud Backup |
| Touch not working but display visible | External keyboard + Computer |
| Screen black/unresponsive | Computer or third-party software |
| iPhone lost or dead | Check iCloud backups |
Key Takeaways
- Use iCloud or iTunes with a trusted computer for backups
- Connect iPhone to a computer and use software or VoiceOver
- A Bluetooth keyboard can help navigate backup steps
Preparing Your iPhone and Computer for Backup
To back up an iPhone with a broken screen, you need to ensure your device is ready for the process and connect it to a trusted computer. This guide covers the essential steps you need to follow.
Assessing the Condition of Your iPhone Screen
First, check how badly the screen is damaged. If the touch feature still works, you can navigate your iPhone more easily. If the screen doesn’t respond, it gets harder. In some cases, you may need external tools like a USB or Bluetooth keyboard to control your device.
If the internal hardware is damaged, you might have a bigger issue. Broken screens can also make it difficult to enter passcodes or use Face ID or Touch ID. Checking the screen’s condition helps you know what steps to take next.
Enabling VoiceOver on a Broken iPhone
VoiceOver can be a lifesaver when the screen is broken. It helps you to control your iPhone without seeing the screen. To turn on VoiceOver, use Siri.
Say, “Hey Siri, turn on VoiceOver.” If Siri doesn’t work, try pressing the Home button or the Side button, depending on your iPhone model. VoiceOver helps you hear what’s on the screen. Using a keyboard shortcut like Ctrl + Alt + Space on a Mac can also help to navigate through VoiceOver.
Mastering VoiceOver commands is important, especially if your screen is entirely unresponsive. It can guide you through every step needed to back up your phone.
Connecting to a Trusted Computer
Connecting your iPhone to a trusted computer is crucial. Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your Mac or Windows PC. Open iTunes or Finder, then look for your device under “Devices.”
If your screen is broken, you might not see the “Trust” prompt. In this case, you can try unlocking your iPhone via passcode or Face ID before connecting. Using a trusted computer ensures a smooth backup process.
When the connection is established, you’ll need to follow the steps to back up your data. Ensuring your computer is trusted is vital to avoid interruptions in the backup process.
