iPhone 16 Pro Max Touch issues with 16 Pro / Pro Max display

[jajo.j]

I have a year (2 in EU) to replace it so I won't rush and risk getting a worse one. I hope the touch issues will be fixed with an update and if not, well, then I'll replace it.

I remember after the premiere of 15 pro max some people had burn in screens after a short time of use and others had good ones. Also then people were sure that it was a hardware problem and some exchanged for new ones that did not have this problem. As you well know, it turned out that the software was to blame and the update solved the problem and the screen burns disappeared as if they had never been there before.

1/2 years is warranty and Apple can attempt to repair your phone instead of giving you a new one.

If you want a new one you better act within 14 days.

 

[jajo.j]

So what’s the best way to do a factory restore on your iPhone these days? In the past, I used iTunes to do that, but I don’t think it’s available anymore.

1) Turn off Find my iPhone
2) Turn the phone off
3) Hold down power and keep holding it until you see an image with a computer and a cable. You are now in DFU Recovery Mode.
4) Connect the phone to a Mac
5) Access the iPhone from the Finder
6) Select to Restore and Update
7) The latest iOS version image will be downloaded (can take a few hours)
8) The restore starts automatically
9) When done, setup your phone without restoring iCloud backup
10) Re-install apps

 

[Ketsurui]

1/2 years is warranty and Apple can attempt to repair your phone instead of giving you a new one.

If you want a new one you better act within 14 days.

in europe (poland) we have something like non-conformity of goods with the contract, within 2 years of purchase I can demand replacement for a new one or a refund, if the defect was hidden or at the time of purchase. For me 14 days have passed a long time ago.

 

[richard371]

Not using iCloud Keychain?



My recommendation is to inspect the device at the Apple Store and if any issues are found just return it. Repeat until you get a perfect unit.

The blue night shots can easily be tested by putting the phone in a backpack for darkness.

Yes I’m using it and it helps but still a hassle.

 

[Apple_Tiger]

1) Turn off Find my iPhone
2) Turn the phone off
3) Hold down power and keep holding it until you see an image with a computer and a cable. You are now in DFU Recovery Mode.
4) Connect the phone to a Mac
5) Access the iPhone from the Finder
6) Select to Restore and Update
7) The latest iOS version image will be downloaded (can take a few hours)
8) The restore starts automatically
9) When done, setup your phone without restoring iCloud backup
10) Re-install apps

That isn't actually the DFU mode, the method you explained is the Recovery mode.

DFU mode is where you actually do the volume up, then volume down, then hold side button for 5 sec, then once screen turns off hold the volume down for 10 seconds. All while you still connect to a computer.

*Note that when your iPhone is actually in DFU mode, your screen is completely black, not the computer and cable displaying on screen.

Source: https://www.simplymac.com/iphone/how-to-put-an-iphone-in-dfu-mode-and-restore-your-device

 

[TokyoKiller]

Hey!

I just got my 16 Pro Max yesterday and it is a great phone. But I am having serious issues with the touch sensitivity on the display. I am using a Belkin Screen Protector installed by the staff at Apple Store and I notice that the screen is sometimes unresponsive to touch. It is most apparent while typing on the keyboard or playing games that require lots of touch actions.

Anyone else experiencing the same issue? I consider removing the screen protector to see if it helps but I am not very keen on using a $1500 phone unprotected.

Hoping that it is a software issue and not hardware.

/ Jacob

I'd take it into Apple for a display test. If they need to remove the protector to do their test they will then replace it for you instead of you having to try and waste the protector yourself at home.

 

[Tasslopez222]

I took my phone back to the Apple store..They gave me a loaner..Went back 5 days later. They swapped out my phone without telling me..I was under the impression they fixed my phone..

They didn’t let you do an exchange?
I exchanged my iPhone twice, the 3rd device I have now is much better in terms of keyboard lag and touch screen issues.

 

[jajo.j]

That isn't actually the DFU mode, the method you explained is the Recovery mode.

DFU mode is where you actually do the volume up, then volume down, then hold side button for 5 sec, then once screen turns off hold the volume down for 10 seconds. All while you still connect to a computer.

*Note that when your iPhone is actually in DFU mode, your screen is completely black, not the computer and cable displaying on screen.

Source: https://www.simplymac.com/iphone/how-to-put-an-iphone-in-dfu-mode-and-restore-your-device

Ah. Thanks for clarification.

 

[ToddH]

1) Turn off Find my iPhone
2) Turn the phone off
3) Hold down power and keep holding it until you see an image with a computer and a cable. You are now in DFU Recovery Mode.
4) Connect the phone to a Mac
5) Access the iPhone from the Finder
6) Select to Restore and Update
7) The latest iOS version image will be downloaded (can take a few hours)
8) The restore starts automatically
9) When done, setup your phone without restoring iCloud backup
10) Re-install apps

Ok, thanks. I suppose this will put my photos back on my iPhone? I can handle the rest.

 

[SaveUsBatman]

So after a day with my replaced 16 Pro Max. I was someone who suffered from laggy keyboard but also some touch issues where I had to tap a couple times here and there. I’m definitely in agreement with jajo.j

It’s a night and day difference with this new one. It’s actually keeping up with my typing. I’m doing maybe one typo here and there compared to every single time I was typing on my old phone. I’m so glad I went in there instead of waiting for a potential fix in 18.1

I’m also thinking this is hardware related as well. Because I am using the same backup I had on my launch day 16PM, the same protector that I installed in the first place, nothing different.

If you are having keyboard issues with the new 16, I highly recommend you booking a Genius Bar appointment as we’re all still within the 60 day of AppleCare.

I’m still gong to be following the thread here and there to see what other findings are to be seen. But I am a happy camper now.

 

[ToddH]

So after a day with my replaced 16 Pro Max. I was someone who suffered from laggy keyboard but also some touch issues where I had to tap a couple times here and there. I’m definitely in agreement with jajo.j

It’s a night and day difference with this new one. It’s actually keeping up with my typing. I’m doing maybe one typo here and there compared to every single time I was typing on my old phone. I’m so glad I went in there instead of waiting for a potential fix in 18.1

I’m also thinking this is hardware related as well. Because I am using the same backup I had on my launch day 16PM, the same protector that I installed in the first place, nothing different.

If you are having keyboard issues with the new 16, I highly recommend you booking a Genius Bar appointment as we’re all still within the 60 day of AppleCare.

I’m still gong to be following the thread here and there to see what other findings are to be seen. But I am a happy camper now.

That’s good news.. I’m not having any touch issues with either of my iPhones. I’m glad you received a better working iPhone.

So did you have camera issues with your iPhone as well prior to swapping it out? Image quality problems. Pixelated images and poorly defined objects like distant trees. Is the camera better with your replacement?

 

[LA24]

So after a day with my replaced 16 Pro Max. I was someone who suffered from laggy keyboard but also some touch issues where I had to tap a couple times here and there. I’m definitely in agreement with jajo.j

It’s a night and day difference with this new one. It’s actually keeping up with my typing. I’m doing maybe one typo here and there compared to every single time I was typing on my old phone. I’m so glad I went in there instead of waiting for a potential fix in 18.1

I’m also thinking this is hardware related as well. Because I am using the same backup I had on my launch day 16PM, the same protector that I installed in the first place, nothing different.

If you are having keyboard issues with the new 16, I highly recommend you booking a Genius Bar appointment as we’re all still within the 60 day of AppleCare.

I’m still gong to be following the thread here and there to see what other findings are to be seen. But I am a happy camper now.

Thanks for the update. What’s the battery manufacture date of the new one?

 

[SaveUsBatman]

That’s good news.. I’m not having any touch issues with either of my iPhones. I’m glad you received a better working iPhone.

So did you have camera issues with your iPhone as well prior to swapping it out? Image quality problems. Pixelated images and poorly defined objects like distant trees. Is the camera better with your replacement?

I had no camera quality issues with my launch day iPhone surprisingly. And I’ve seen none so far with this new one.

 

[SaveUsBatman]

Thanks for the update. What’s the battery manufacture date of the new one?

September

 

[jajo.j]

Ok, thanks. I suppose this will put my photos back on my iPhone? I can handle the rest.

If you have your photos in iCloud then you are fine. They will appear even if you don't setup the iPhone by restoring an iCloud backup.

So after a day with my replaced 16 Pro Max. I was someone who suffered from laggy keyboard but also some touch issues where I had to tap a couple times here and there. I’m definitely in agreement with jajo.j

It’s a night and day difference with this new one. It’s actually keeping up with my typing. I’m doing maybe one typo here and there compared to every single time I was typing on my old phone. I’m so glad I went in there instead of waiting for a potential fix in 18.1

I’m also thinking this is hardware related as well. Because I am using the same backup I had on my launch day 16PM, the same protector that I installed in the first place, nothing different.

If you are having keyboard issues with the new 16, I highly recommend you booking a Genius Bar appointment as we’re all still within the 60 day of AppleCare.

I’m still gong to be following the thread here and there to see what other findings are to be seen. But I am a happy camper now.

Glad to hear this. We basically share 100% the same experience.

 

[richard371]

I just find it odd that 99% of the time mine is perfect but once in awhile it takes several tries to get an app to open or message to send. I need to test the right edge of the P and backspace on more phones and models before I'm convinced it's a hardware issue on mine. For me it's not a showstopper so I'm going to wait a month or 2 to let the dust settle a bit before swapping. I don't want the hassle and headache if the replacement behaves the same way. Also, I've seen issues in the past where everyone was certain it was hardware as phone swaps were fixing it, but it turned out a software update did the job. Maybe a driver issue with a specific model of touch panel.

 

[Apple_Tiger]

So far my brand new iphone 15 pro max that I got from Verizon has no touch issues with the screen.

 

[richard371]

FYI I work in IT and forgot i have a stash of old phones in a drawer. I just pulled out an iPhone 12 prob with iOS 13 or 14 and it bahaves the exact same way with the P, backspace, Q keys etc. If you hit the right half of the P/backspace etc it does not register. Its identical to my 16 pro.

 

[AppleStraw]

So. To make this thread a little more informal, let us agree on the different touch issues that exist so that we can refer to them.

Issue A: Touch screen does not react to taps or swipes intermittently (repeated tap/swipe required).

Comment on A: Users have reported that this issue has been solved by replacing the phone.

Issue B: Touch feels laggy. It reacts but not immediately (most noticeable when typing quickly on the keyboard).

Comment on B: Users have reported that this issue has been solved by replacing the phone.

Issue C: Parts of the screen near the edges never react to touch input (the right part of P or backspace button on keyboard near the edge of the screen)

Comment on C: Most likely caused by palm rejection algorithm in place because the bezels are so thin.

Issue D: When area near camera control is touched the entire display stops responding to touch

Comment on D: Solved with iOS 18.0.1.

Want to know what was the issue with my 16 Pro? iOS 18.0.1 fixed the touchscreen issue that happened near the Camera Control button on the right. However, I could still replicate the issue almost anywhere on the left side.
Go in Settings, place your thumb (even the tip) on the left side near the bezel on the slightly grayish background (like near the scrolling bar that appears on the right). Try to scroll. You know you did it right when you feel the screen locks and can't scroll for the first few swipes. Phone had no issues according to their test. I could replicate the issue on the display models they had. I was surprised, also possible on the 14 and 15 series they had on display. They told me it's probably software related. It's impossible to replicate the issue on a 15 and 15 Pro both running iOS 17.5.1. I returned the phone and will send feedback. I'm disappointed as I need it badly.

So is it software or hardware? Why were older iPhones on display affected? I hope it's because of iOS 18. Maybe they tweaked the palm rejection but it affects different iPhones (even the ones with "bigger" bezels)? I will test later again on display models after new iOS updates.

Can anyone try to replicate the issue please?

 

[MarcinRSE]

Want to know what was the issue with my 16 Pro? iOS 18.0.1 fixed the touchscreen issue that happened near the Camera Control button on the right. However, I could still replicate the issue almost anywhere on the left side.
Go in Settings, place your thumb (even the tip) on the left side near the bezel on the slightly grayish background (like near the scrolling bar that appears on the right). Try to scroll. You know you did it right when you feel the screen locks and can't scroll for the first few swipes. Phone had no issues according to their test. I could replicate the issue on the display models they had. I was surprised, also possible on the 14 and 15 series they had on display. They told me it's probably software related. It's impossible to replicate the issue on a 15 and 15 Pro both running iOS 17.5.1. I returned the phone and will send feedback. I'm disappointed as I need it badly.

So is it software or hardware? Why were older iPhones on display affected? I hope it's because of iOS 18. Maybe they tweaked the palm rejection but it affects different iPhones (even the ones with "bigger" bezels)? I will test later again on display models after new iOS updates.

Can anyone try to replicate the issue please?

Want to know what was the issue with my 16 Pro? iOS 18.0.1 fixed the touchscreen issue that happened near the Camera Control button on the right. However, I could still replicate the issue almost anywhere on the left side.
Go in Settings, place your thumb (even the tip) on the left side near the bezel on the slightly grayish background (like near the scrolling bar that appears on the right). Try to scroll. You know you did it right when you feel the screen locks and can't scroll for the first few swipes. Phone had no issues according to their test. I could replicate the issue on the display models they had. I was surprised, also possible on the 14 and 15 series they had on display. They told me it's probably software related. It's impossible to replicate the issue on a 15 and 15 Pro both running iOS 17.5.1. I returned the phone and will send feedback. I'm disappointed as I need it badly.

So is it software or hardware? Why were older iPhones on display affected? I hope it's because of iOS 18. Maybe they tweaked the palm rejection but it affects different iPhones (even the ones with "bigger" bezels)? I will test later again on display models after new iOS updates.

Can anyone try to replicate the issue please?

Yes I can replicate the issue on the left side. Like you mention iOS 18.0.1fixed the right side. I could replicate it on my 16 pro max before replacement , I can on a replacement unit and I can replicate it on my partner’s pro max. I definitely think it is software related

 

[kshitijraina]

Want to know what was the issue with my 16 Pro? iOS 18.0.1 fixed the touchscreen issue that happened near the Camera Control button on the right. However, I could still replicate the issue almost anywhere on the left side.
Go in Settings, place your thumb (even the tip) on the left side near the bezel on the slightly grayish background (like near the scrolling bar that appears on the right). Try to scroll. You know you did it right when you feel the screen locks and can't scroll for the first few swipes. Phone had no issues according to their test. I could replicate the issue on the display models they had. I was surprised, also possible on the 14 and 15 series they had on display. They told me it's probably software related. It's impossible to replicate the issue on a 15 and 15 Pro both running iOS 17.5.1. I returned the phone and will send feedback. I'm disappointed as I need it badly.

So is it software or hardware? Why were older iPhones on display affected? I hope it's because of iOS 18. Maybe they tweaked the palm rejection but it affects different iPhones (even the ones with "bigger" bezels)? I will test later again on display models after new iOS updates.

Can anyone try to replicate the issue please?

No problems on the left side after holding the bezel and the screen with the thumb, but I did have the problem on the right side near the camera control but after the 18.0.1 update no longer have it.

 

[kvlq]

Haven't seen anyone with this issue trying to reproduce it with 18.2 beta 1.
Is it still the same or is it finally fixed?

 

[jajo.j]

Updates on my launch day 16 Pro Max that has (had) lag.

I just got it back from Apple service. I sent it in using the box they provide and the whole process took 3 days. It is now fixed. Unclear what they did as the documents don't show any part replacement. It is the same serial number so they did not replace the entire phone. But now it is super snappy, works just like my new 16 Pro Max.

I cannot tell the difference between the old and the new.

I am going to keep the new one regardless, but before I sell my launch day unit I will do some more testing for you guys so you don't have to. I will first restore my iCloud backup and see if that changes anything (right now I just set it up as quickly as possible to test the keyboard).

Promising so far. Stay tuned.

 

[Carlsberg69]

Updates on my launch day 16 Pro Max that has (had) lag.

I just got it back from Apple service. I sent it in using the box they provide and the whole process took 3 days. It is now fixed. Unclear what they did as the documents don't show any part replacement. It is the same serial number so they did not replace the entire phone. But now it is super snappy, works just like my new 16 Pro Max.

I cannot tell the difference between the old and the new.

I am going to keep the new one regardless, but before I sell my launch day unit I will do some more testing for you guys so you don't have to. I will first restore my iCloud backup and see if that changes anything (right now I just set it up as quickly as possible to test the keyboard).

Promising so far. Stay tuned.

Very interesting and promising news!! 👍

 

[jajo.j]

I restored the iCloud backup and phone is still super snappy. Apple somehow solved the problem. Unclear if they did anything hardware related or just software.

Very glad that it worked out. For me personally it would have been better to be able to return it for refund since I have a new phone now that I will keep. But it is good news for you guys out there still having the problem and don't want to go through the hassle of replacing (with a risk to get a defective camera etc).

Hope this info helps.