Ghost touch issue on iPhone XR keyboard

My IPhone XR sometimes doesn’t allow me to text on the near bottom of the screen (keyboard area). Touchscreen is not responding and sometimes it’s texts and selects on apps on its own. Someone please kindly help?



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Ghost touch

iPhone XR, iOS 18

Posted on Aug 3, 2025 7:24 AM

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Posted on Aug 3, 2025 7:39 AM

That is most common with displays where the digitizer may be failing. Schedule an appointment at your Apple Store Genius Bar for evaluation, options and costs to fix. Personally, I wouldn't invest money in an iPhone Xr at this point. While it was capable of being updated to iOS 18, it will NOT be capable of being updated to the upcoming iOS 26 this fall. But that's a decision you'll need to make. If the screen needs to be replaced, it isn't inexpensive.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Aug 3, 2025 7:39 AM in response to ravbrar10

That is most common with displays where the digitizer may be failing. Schedule an appointment at your Apple Store Genius Bar for evaluation, options and costs to fix. Personally, I wouldn't invest money in an iPhone Xr at this point. While it was capable of being updated to iOS 18, it will NOT be capable of being updated to the upcoming iOS 26 this fall. But that's a decision you'll need to make. If the screen needs to be replaced, it isn't inexpensive.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


Aug 3, 2025 7:53 AM in response to ravbrar10

ravbrar10 wrote:

Thanks for your reply. I’ve checked the battery and it is great. I cannot get my iPhone serviced because the warranty has expired unfortunately. Would the Apple store Genius Bar charge for an evaluation?

An evaluation with the Genius Bar is free of charge, that would be a good place to start. But you can get your iPhone repaired outside of warranty, you will just have to pay more. If it isn’t the battery, it’s likely the screen as lobsterghost1 stated. I took a look at Apple’s estimates and if it falls under “cracked screen”, which they would replace the screen, it would be $200 US out of warranty, which is 1/4 cost of the new iPhone 16.

Aug 3, 2025 7:37 AM in response to ravbrar10

It’s likely your iPhone XR has a failing battery. If you go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health and Charging, I’m guessing it shows less than 80%? Otherwise it could be a failing screen or another component. You would need to have your iPhone serviced and that part replaced.


Now you also have the option to put that repair money into a new iPhone since it’s likely more feasible. Your iPhone was discontinued for the latest software updates and won’t get iOS 26.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Aug 3, 2025 8:11 AM in response to ravbrar10

ravbrar10 wrote:

Thanks for your reply. I’ve checked the battery and it is great. I cannot get my iPhone serviced because the warranty has expired unfortunately. I’ve already tried force restarting the phone a few times and that didn’t work. Would the Apple store Genius Bar charge for an evaluation?

No, an evaluation won't cost anything. But if as I suspect, your phone needs service, you'll have to pay for it, just like you would for any product you buy which is no longer covered by warranty.

Aug 4, 2025 6:09 AM in response to ravbrar10

ravbrar10 wrote:

Thanks I appreciate your help. If the screen needs to be replaced would it not be better for me to upgrade and buy an iPhone SE or IPhone 13 instead which would cost way lower than $200

You’re welcome. I’d go with the 13 for long term or the SE for price. I hope whichever you choose you’ll be satisfied with.

Aug 4, 2025 6:20 AM in response to ravbrar10

ravbrar10 wrote:

Thanks I appreciate your help. If the screen needs to be replaced would it not be better for me to upgrade and buy an iPhone SE or IPhone 13 instead which would cost way lower than $200

Sure, a newer phone would certainly be better. But PLEASE read this user tip I wrote before you buy a used iPhone, which if you're considering an SE or 13, would have to be used --> The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community

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Ghost touch issue on iPhone XR keyboard

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