Reprising a question about the iPhone SE 2020 Home button

The previous discussion on this issue was closed after just one exchange, without sufficient info for most users to troubleshoot this issue which is a common malfunction.


Basically the advice offered is wipe it off.


Most users experiencing this problem will have tried that before looking on the forums for more substantial advice on troubleshooting this.





iPhone SE 2020 Home button




AM_Lindberg

Author

User level:

Level 1

12 points

iPhone SE 2020 Home button 

Hey all -


Recently (as of last night) my iPhone SE 2020 home button function and haptic have given out. I’ve resorted to assistive touch. I have already updated to the latest update, and have tried cleaning it by gently dabbing it with water on a q-tip.


Let me know if there are any options for me to fix it without bringing it in, because spending money doesn’t sound necessary for this sort of repair.


Thanks!








ProustGiulio

User level:

Level 10

209,958 points

Feb 13, 2023 6:15 AM in response to AM_Lindberg

See this support article about that problem:--> If a button or switch isn't working on your iPhone or iPad


Of course you can survive using Assistive Touch, but remember that you'll loose some functions (i.e. physical button sequences that must be used to perform system recovery actions, and/or reset a forgotten device passcode, etc).


Regards

Giulio







If a button or switch isn't working on your iPhone or iPad, here are steps that might fix the issue. If they don't, you'll need to set up a repair.

  1. Remove any protective films or cases that might block the button or switch.
  2. Check for debris or dirt around the button or switch and clean with a soft cloth.
  3. If the button or switch still isn't working, is damaged, or works intermittently, you can set up a repair:




Posted on May 4, 2026 8:26 AM

Reply
6 replies

May 4, 2026 9:21 AM in response to creoslamard44

If removing the case and wiping it off doesn't fix it. the next steps are:

Reboot the device.

Restore iOS and restore the backup.

Restore iOS and set it up as new.


If none of those fix the problem, Make an appointment at the Genius Bar or take it to your local authorize service provider for evaluation.


There are no magic words that can fix failed or broken hardware.


May 4, 2026 8:45 AM in response to creoslamard44

A post is locked when a significant amount of time has passed or if the OP is no longer responding. This post is 3 years old with no follow up from the OP, so it would be expected to be locked. You can always post a link to that post for reference instead of a copy/paste and I have done that for you here:

iPhone SE 2020 Home button - Apple Community


In the link provided in the answer of that post is a Support Document from Apple that offers 3 recommendations, not just the one to wipe it off.

  • Remove any protective cover
  • Clean the button with a Soft Cloth
  • Schedule an appointment with Apple for service.

If the side button or another button isn't working on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


If you have done the first 2 and don't want to use the link in that support article to schedule service, it can also be done with this link.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


May 4, 2026 1:43 PM in response to creoslamard44

Physical buttons fail including the much used Home Button. Personally I don't expect you will find a software solution as I suspect it is a Hardware failure that can only be resolved by service if you have done the other steps in the provided Support Article. KiltedTim is very respected here and also provided a test to determine if it is software related since it is basically free to do, I just don't believe you will find that to be the case but certainly worth a shot.


Once diagnostics is performed by Apple you will be given your options to have a better idea how you want to proceed.

May 4, 2026 12:47 PM in response to creoslamard44

creoslamard44 wrote:

Copy that, thanks.
I don't expect magic words. I do expect the support discussions are a place where users can tell each other how to troubleshoot the issue.

And that's exactly what KiltedTim and Mac Jim ID have done. Try those steps, but if not successful, it's time for a visit to your closest Apple Store Genius Bar.

Reprising a question about the iPhone SE 2020 Home button

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