iPad: Can’t swipe up to close apps or do a forced restart and other oddities

Hello Always-bewildered, and welcome to the Apple Support Community.

Since several features stopped working at the same time (gestures, force restart, and Software Update), this appears to be more than a single app issue. It may be caused by a temporary software problem or an issue affecting the system’s responsiveness.

Here are a few steps to try:

1. Make sure you’re using the correct force restart sequence for your iPad model.
2. Disconnect any external accessories (keyboard, mouse, USB hub, etc.) and test again.
3. If the iPad remains responsive enough, check Settings > General > iPad Storage to ensure there is sufficient free space and allow any pending background processes to complete.
4. If Software Update continues to hang, connect the iPad to a Mac or PC and try updating or reinstalling iPadOS using Finder or the Apple Devices app. Reinstalling iPadOS does not erase your data when using the Update option.

Helpful links:

If your iPad won't turn on or is frozen - Apple Support

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings using a computer - Apple Support

If you can't update or restore your iPad - Apple Support

Could you let us know whether the iPad responds normally to touch in other apps, and whether you’re able to complete a force restart using the button sequence for your model? Also, did these symptoms begin immediately after installing iPadOS 26.5?

Please keep us updated on the results.

Your feedback may also help other members of the Apple Support Community experiencing the same issue.

🙏🏻

Have a great day.

And one more thing…

Never forget to think different.



Begin with a forced-restart of your iPad - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
3. Press and hold the top button; do not release the button until...
4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings

If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support

Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to assist with troubleshooting:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

What happens when you attempt a forced restart?

My forsced reset worked.