The iPad is a handy device when you want to get work done on the go. It is lightweight, fast, and highly reliable, but if not properly taken care of, it can give you a hard time. One of the biggest complaints users have with iPads is ghost touch, today, we’ll find out why ghost touch happens and how you can fix it in this article prepared by Simply Fixable.
Key Takeaways
In this article, we’ll talk about iPad ghost touch issues and what could be the causes behind it such as dirt on the screen, faulty screen protector, or software bugs. We’ll also talk about various ways through which you can fix this issue, such as updating to the latest iOS, cleaning the screen, or factory resetting the device.
Listed below are some reasons why your iPad may be experiencing ghost touch;
One of the most common reasons is a dirty screen. Dust, dirt, smudges, or even just a film of oil from your fingers can interfere with the touch and cause the device to think you're touching it when you're not.
There may be a software glitch or bug tricking the iPad into detecting false inputs.
A screen protector, especially a thicker glass one with adhesives around the edges, may confuse the iPad into ghost-touching.
There may be a bug in an application you are using, causing the iPad to experience ghost-touch.
There may be damage to the screen or the internal components of the screen such as cracks on the screen or a damaged digitizer.
Is Ghost Touch A Virus On iPad?
No, it is very highly unlikely for ghost touch to be caused by a virus on iPad since iOS is a very secure system. Ghost touch is most likely caused by;
Damage to the screen or internal components
Dirty screen
Software glitch
Bug in an application
Thick or improper screen protector
Is Ghost Touch Caused By Hackers?
No, ghost touches on an iPad are highly unlikely to be caused by hackers. iOS is extremely secure, and hacking an individual device remotely to affect the hardware-based touch sensors is virtually impossible.
Can Ghost Touch Be Fixed?
Although ghost touch on an iPad is highly frustrating and a hindrance in daily operation, it can be easily fixed. The majority of the factors behind ghost touch can be easily identified, and by simply troubleshooting them, the issue of ghost touch can be fixed.
Restart your device by holding the power button and the volume up button simultaneously to power off, then press and hold the power button to restart the device.
Clean the screen thoroughly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove any dust, oils, or debris that could be interfering with the touch sensors.
Update your iOS software and apps in case ghost touch is happening due to a software glitch.
Remove the screen protector and test the touch again with the bare screen.
Check if the ghost touch only occurs while opening or operating a particular app. In that case, delete or reinstall the app.
Consider resetting the device to factory settings to get rid of any software glitches.
If the issue still remains, then there may be a hardware issue. In that case, it is recommended to get your iPad checked by an Apple technician.
Does Apple Fix Ghost Touch?
Yes, Apple addresses ghost touch issues in its iPads. The company's response depends on the specific circumstances, such as the model of the device and the cause of the ghost touch problem.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Ghost Touch?
Have you tried all the troubleshooting tips, but the issue is still there? Here is what you need to know about how much it costs to fix a ghost touch;
Apple offers a 1-year warranty. So if your device is experiencing ghost touch within a 1-year timeframe, Apple will usually fix the problem at no additional cost, provided the ghost touch issue is due to a manufacturing defect.
If your device is no longer under warranty, Apple can still repair the ghost touch issue, but there might be a service charge. The cost can vary depending on the model and the extent of the repair needed. However, expect between $150-300 for getting the issue fixed by Apple.
Cracked iPad Screen Ghost Touch
Here is why your cracked iPad screen is experiencing ghost touch and what you can do about it;
Why Is My iPad Cracked Screen Experiencing Ghost Touch?
The internal parts of the screen may be damaged. This includes the connector ribbons that connect the touchscreen.
How To Fix My iPad Cracked Screen Experiencing Ghost Touch?
A soft reset may help solve the issue temporarily, but there is no guarantee about this method’s efficiency.
The best solution is to replace the screen. It is suggested that you take your device only to reliable technicians for screen replacement.
How To Prevent My iPad-Cracked Screen Experiencing Ghost Touch?
Avoid damaging the screen by dropping the iPad or using it roughly.
Install a screen protector and invest in a strong case that will save your iPad from possible damage.
iPad Ghost Touch After Screen Replacement
Listed below are some reasons why your iPad may be experiencing ghost touch after screen replacement and what you can do about it;
Why Is My iPad Experiencing Ghost Touch After Screen Replacement?
iPad may experience ghost touch even after screen replacement if the screen replacement is defective or if the new digitizer layer is defective or was damaged during the installation process.
Similarly, dust or moisture trapped during the installation process may also cause ghost touch.
Sometimes, a software glitch can cause ghost touch problems after screen replacement.
How To Fix My iPad Experiencing Ghost Touch After Screen Replacement?
Gently check that all connector cables are connected. If not, then reconnect cables firmly. It is suggested to consult an Apple technician for this process if you don’t have any skills or knowledge to do it yourself.
If the digitizer is damaged, ask the Apple technician to install a new digitizer and test for ghost-touch.
How To Prevent My iPad From Experiencing Ghost Touch After Screen Replacement?
Only get your iPad screen replacement done by skilled technicians to avoid this issue from happening.
iPad Ghost Touch When Charging
Here is what you can do if your iPad is experiencing ghost touch when charging;
Why Is My iPad Experiencing Ghost Touch When Charging?
There may be a software glitch.
There may be a problem with the wall charger or the lightning cable.
Using a buggy application in some cases may also cause ghost touch while charging.
How To Fix My iPad Experiencing Ghost Touch When Charging?
Look for updates in the settings and update to the latest iOS.
Restart your iPad by pressing and holding the power button and the volume button simultaneously.
If you are using third-party charging accessories, replace them with Apple-certified accessories and check if the issue persists.
Connect your iPad to an Apple-certified charger and note if ghost touches occur only under certain apps. In that case, reinstall or remove those apps accordingly.
How To Prevent My iPad From Experiencing Ghost Touch When Charging?
Avoid using any visibly damaged cables or third-party chargers. Only use Apple-certified accessories.
Keep iOS updated to tackle any software glitches that may arise over time.
iPad Pro ghost touch issues can be caused by faulty screen replacement or damaged connectors. But it can be easily resolved through a reliable Apple-certified technician.
iPad Air ghost touch
This issue could be due to a software glitch or a poor-quality screen protector. Try updating iOS to the latest version, as it may fix the bugs. Also, change your iPad Air screen protector, which might be impacting the touch functionality.
iPad Mini ghost touch
iPad Mini ghost touch can happen due to a damaged screen or misaligned screen replacement, or software bugs. Get the screen checked by a professional to troubleshoot this issue.
How to prevent the iPad ghost touch issue in the future?
Here is how you can prevent your iPad from ghost touch issues in the future:
Use a high-quality screen protector to avoid dust or scratches that might affect the touch functionality.
Avoid dropping your iPad on the floor as it can damage internal components resulting in a ghost touch.
Keep the iOS updated to the latest version to fix potential bugs that may cause ghost touch issues.
Keep your iPad away from liquids, as moisture can also affect the touchscreen.
Conclusion
Although ghost touches are annoying when using iPads, they can be easily resolved if there is no damage to the screen or the internal components. By simply restarting the device or updating iOS, you can overcome ghost touch. However, in case of damage, it is suggested that you get your device checked by an Apple technician. The cost to repair may set you back a couple hundred dollars but your device will function like brand new. Remember to only visit skilled technicians for any sort of screen or hardware replacement.
Madi is a dynamic tech writer with a passion for simplifying complex concepts. Her expertise lies in creating clear and concise guides, blogs, manuals, and tutorials that empower users to navigate the technological landscape with ease. Throughout her career, Madi has worked with numerous leading tech companies, collaborating with engineers, developers, designers and marketers to create user manuals, FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and tech articles, on the websites such as "Technology Castle" and "Bilzimo". She can transform intricate technical jargon into user-friendly language, empowering users to understand and utilize products effectively.