My iPhone touchscreen is completely unresponsive... can I still unlock it to use Siri?

I accidentally crushed my iPhone 12 in my car boot, cracking the screen and making it totally unresponsive. The phone seems to be working fine otherwise—I still get messages and notifications just as I should. The buttons and everything else seem to operate normally. The issue is that I can’t unlock my phone with Face ID since I can’t touch the screen. I can access the unlock screen using Siri, but it doesn’t scan my face when I try. I’ve also noticed that if I double tap the side button to open my wallet, it only prompts for my passcode and doesn’t attempt Face ID either. Is there any way I can unlock my phone to use Siri, or do I just need to wait until I can get it fixed or replaced?

Unfortunately, without the touchscreen working, it’s tough to unlock your phone using Face ID. Siri can help you access some features, but it can’t bypass the lock screen without your input. If your screen is completely unresponsive, you won’t be able to use Face ID or interact with the phone directly.

That’s such a bummer. Is there any way to reset the phone or something so I can at least try to get Siri to work more?

Resetting the phone usually requires touch input, which you can’t do if the screen is unresponsive. If you can get it to connect to a computer, you might be able to use iTunes or Finder to interact with it, but that won’t help with unlocking it.

Have you tried connecting it to a Bluetooth device? If your phone is paired with a Bluetooth accessory, you might be able to unlock it that way. Sometimes, this can give you some access without needing to touch the screen.

I didn’t think about that! How do I connect it to a Bluetooth device if I can’t use the screen?

If it’s already paired, just try using the accessory to see if it triggers anything. If not, you may need to wait for a fix. But it’s worth a shot!

You might also consider using a wired connection to a computer. If your phone is recognized, you could backup your data before getting it repaired. Just keep in mind that unlocking might still be a challenge without touch.

Would that allow me to access any of my apps or files, though? I’m really worried about losing what’s on there.

If you can connect it and it’s recognized, you can back up your data. But to actually use apps or unlock it, you’ll likely still need the screen to work.

I’d suggest getting it repaired as soon as possible. While there might be some workarounds, they won’t fully solve the issue. A screen replacement would restore full functionality, including Face ID.

Thanks for the advice! I’ll look into getting it fixed. Just need to find a good repair shop now.