Are you frustrated because your iPhone apps won’t open? Don’t worry; you’re not alone, and there are solutions! This article will guide you through the steps for fixing apps that refuse to cooperate on your iPhone.
After completing the actions laid out in this article, you can expect your iPhone apps to open and function as intended, allowing you to return to using your device without any hiccups.
Introduction
We’ve all been there. You tap on an app, and instead of opening, it just hangs there, staring back at you with a blank screen or crashes immediately. It’s infuriating, right? But, fear not! This common problem with iPhones can often be fixed with a few simple steps. In fact, it’s such a common issue that Apple has provided several built-in solutions to help users troubleshoot this exact scenario.
Knowing how to fix apps that will not open on your iPhone is not just about avoiding frustration; it’s also about ensuring your device functions properly when you need it most. Whether you rely on certain apps for work, keeping in touch with loved ones, or just for entertainment, having them readily available is vital. This article is relevant to any iPhone user because, let’s face it, app issues can strike anyone, at any time.
Step by Step Tutorial: Fixing iPhone Apps that Won’t Open
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that following this tutorial will help you get your apps up and running again. These steps range from simple quick fixes to more involved troubleshooting methods.
Step 1: Force Quit the App
Double-click the Home button (or swipe up on the screen if you have an iPhone X or later) and swipe the app off the screen to force it to quit.
Sometimes apps just need a fresh start. Force quitting can help clear any minor glitches the app might be experiencing.
Step 2: Restart Your iPhone
Hold the power button (and either volume button for iPhone X or later) until the slider appears, then slide to turn off your iPhone. After it shuts down, turn it back on.
Restarting can resolve a multitude of issues, as it gives your iPhone a chance to reset its processes and clear temporary caches.
Step 3: Check for App Updates
Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, and scroll to see if there are any updates available for your apps.
Developers often release updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Keeping your apps up to date is key to ensuring they run smoothly.
Step 4: Reinstall the App
Press and hold the app until it jiggles, tap the “X” to delete it, then go to the App Store to reinstall it.
Reinstalling can often eliminate any corrupt data that might be causing the app to misbehave.
Step 5: Check for iOS Updates
Go to Settings > General > Software Update to see if a new version of iOS is available.
New iOS updates can improve overall performance and fix known software issues that may be affecting your apps.
Step 6: Reset All Settings
Navigate to Settings > General > Reset and select “Reset All Settings” (this won’t delete your data, but you will have to re-enter Wi-Fi passwords).
This is a more drastic step that can fix deeper issues, as it restores all your iPhone’s settings (including network, privacy, and location settings) to their default values.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Performance | Resetting and updating your apps and iOS can lead to improved speed and responsiveness, making your iPhone experience smoother. |
| Bug Fixes | Updates often include fixes for common bugs that may be causing your apps to crash or not open, ensuring a more stable usage. |
| Preventative Maintenance | Regularly checking for updates and restarting your iPhone can prevent future app issues from occurring. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time-Consuming | Some steps, like reinstalling apps or updating iOS, can take a significant amount of time to complete. |
| Data Usage | Downloading updates can consume data, which might be a concern if you’re on a limited data plan. |
| Potential for Data Loss | While rare, there is always a slight risk of data loss when updating software or resetting settings. |
Additional Information
Now, if you’ve gone through all the steps above and your apps still won’t open, there are a couple more things you can try. First, check if there’s enough storage on your iPhone. Sometimes apps can’t function properly without sufficient space. To check storage, go to Settings > General > [Device] Storage. If you’re running low, consider deleting apps you no longer use or offloading photos and videos to the cloud.
Another tip is to reach out to the app developer. If a particular app is consistently giving you trouble, there might be a known issue that the developer is working on. They can also provide more targeted troubleshooting steps for their app.
Finally, if all else fails, consider contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store. There might be a hardware issue at play, especially if multiple apps are affected.
Summary
- Force quit the app
- Restart your iPhone
- Check for app updates
- Reinstall the app
- Check for iOS updates
- Reset all settings
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if force quitting doesn’t work?
If force quitting the app doesn’t resolve the issue, proceed with restarting your iPhone and follow the subsequent steps in the tutorial.
Will I lose data if I reinstall an app?
Most apps store data in the cloud, so you should not lose any data. However, it’s always a good idea to back up important information just in case.
How often should I check for iOS updates?
Apple frequently releases updates, so it’s a good practice to check for iOS updates at least once a month.
Can an app not open because of a poor internet connection?
Yes, some apps require a stable internet connection to function properly. If you suspect this is the issue, try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or use cellular data if available.
Is it safe to reset all settings on my iPhone?
Yes, resetting all settings is safe and will not delete your personal data, but you will need to reconfigure your settings afterward.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Fixing apps that will not open on an iPhone can be a bit of a hassle, but it’s usually something you can handle on your own with a little patience and some troubleshooting.
Remember, keeping your apps and iOS up to date is crucial for optimal performance. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to the app developer or Apple Support for additional help. Now, go forth and enjoy your fully functional iPhone apps!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.