The Basics
Before delving into more time-consuming solutions, it's essential to start with some fundamental steps.
First, restart your iPhone. This simple action can often resolve minor glitches that might be causing display problems. If your phone is experiencing other issues in addition to display anomalies, a force restart might be more effective.
Also, if you've recently added any new accessories, such as a screen protector, it could be the culprit. Screen protectors can sometimes trap debris or cause visual discrepancies. Check if the lines on the screen disappear when the display is turned off. If so, the accessory might be the problem.
Software Bugs
While it's uncommon for an iPhone to develop image issues due to software problems, it's not impossible. Bugs within apps or the operating system itself can sometimes lead to display glitches.
To determine if the issue is app-specific, check if the problem persists in other applications. If the display appears normal in other apps, close the affected app and try to reproduce the issue. If the problem recurs, update the app to the latest version.
If the issue is present in multiple applications or on the home screen, it's advisable to update your iPhone's operating system. This can often fix software-related bugs that might be causing the display problem.
Resetting your device is a last resort, as it's unlikely to resolve software-related display issues. However, if you've exhausted all other options, it can help rule out software as the cause. Before resetting, make sure to back up your data using iTunes. This way, you can restore your device with a fresh, up-to-date copy of the software directly from Apple.
Screen Disconnect
After a significant drop or a repair, the connection between the logic board and the display may become loose. This can result in display issues such as lines or flickering.
To address this, you'll need to use a specialized toolset to open your iPhone. Once inside, carefully reseat any connectors related to the display. This can help ensure a stable connection between the board and the screen.
It's also a good idea to clean the connectors using compressed air or isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab. This can remove any dust or debris that might be interfering with the connection.
Damaged Cable
The display on an iPhone relies on several electrical lines to transmit information between the screen and the logic board. Damage to these lines can result in missing data, which may manifest as colored or blank lines on the display.
Inspect the internal cables for any signs of tears, fraying, or other damage. Pay particular attention to areas where the cables are bent or folded, as these are the most vulnerable points.
You can refer to the iFixit Display Replacement Guide for your specific iPhone model to identify which cables are responsible for the screen's functionality.
If you've recently replaced the display, double-check your work. Cables can be damaged during the replacement process, even if the phone hasn't been opened since. If you find any damage to the cables, it's recommended to replace the display.
Faulty Display
Even without visible damage, a display can sometimes fail due to manufacturing defects or imperceptible damage.
Examine your display closely for any signs of cracks or breaks. Sometimes, changing your viewing angle can help reveal small hairline cracks that might not be visible from a straight-on view.
Display lines often originate from the site of the damage, so pay close attention to these areas.
To check for liquid damage, use a paperclip to eject the SIM tray. Shine a light into the slot and look for the liquid contact indicator. If it's pink or red, it means the device has been in contact with liquid.
Green or purple lines on newer iPhone displays are a common sign of an electrical issue within the screen. In Apple's OLED displays, green pixels are aligned vertically, while red and blue pixels alternate in adjacent columns. Minor damage can disrupt these lines, resulting in green or purple streaks.
While this issue can sometimes be repaired using a laser machine, it's often more practical and cost-effective to replace the screen.
If you've recently replaced the display, take extra care to inspect the components on the back of the screen. Damage to these chips can also affect the image quality. If you find any signs of damage or if software fixes haven't resolved the issue, a display replacement is recommended.
Logic Board
The logic board is the central hub of an iPhone's functionality, and a failure or damage to any of its components can result in a wide range of issues, including display problems. If you've tried all the other solutions on this list and the problem persists, it's likely that the logic board is at fault.
Look for obvious signs of damage to the logic board, such as burned or cracked components, liquid residue, corrosion, or physical bends. If you suspect liquid damage, the iPhone Liquid Damage Guide can provide helpful information.
For DIY enthusiasts, replacing the logic board is often the most practical solution. However, if you're feeling adventurous and have the necessary skills, you can attempt to repair the individual components on the board using microsoldering techniques. If you can not do this sort of repair work, you can find a local repair shop that specializes in iPhone repairs.
