The iPhone 16 Pro Max launched with powerful specs and improved software performance. However, many users have reported that after installing the iOS 18 update, their devices began to freeze, and the touchscreen responsiveness declined. These issues can be particularly frustrating for individuals who rely on their phones for daily tasks or business.
This article explains what’s causing the freezing and touchscreen lag on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, whether it’s software or hardware-related, and what solutions are available for those looking for iPhone Repair in Vancouver and surrounding cities.
What Problems Are iPhone 16 Pro Max Users Facing After iOS 18?
1. Touchscreen Unresponsive in Some Areas
After updating to iOS 18, users have noticed that parts of the screen do not respond to taps or swipes. This is especially common:
- Near the top corners
- Around the control centre area
- While typing or using gestures
2. Random Freezes or UI Lockups
Some users report that the phone freezes randomly during:
- Incoming calls
- Opening apps like Messages or Safari
- While charging
- When unlocking with Face ID
3. Ghost Touch or Screen Glitching
In some instances, the phone registers touches that weren’t made—also called “ghost touch.” This causes the phone to open apps, type random letters, or scroll by itself.
These issues are becoming increasingly common across Canada, and shops offering iPhone 16 Pro Max Repair in Vancouver are receiving more inquiries.
Causes of Freezing and Touchscreen Issues
Let’s break down the possible reasons behind these iOS 18-related problems.
1. iOS 18 Bugs & Compatibility Issues
iOS 18 introduced several new features, including upgraded visual elements and live widgets. However, some updates can carry bugs—especially during the first few months of release.
Software bugs can cause:
- UI delays
- Background processes overloading RAM
- Conflicts between apps and new system behaviours
If the freezing started right after the update, it’s likely a software issue.
2. Incomplete Installation or Corrupt Update Files
Sometimes, the iOS update doesn’t install correctly due to:
- Low battery during update
- Poor Wi-Fi connection
- Insufficient storage
This can result in a partially corrupted OS, which causes system crashes or touchscreen delays.
Fix: Reinstalling the OS using iTunes or Finder (macOS) may help.
3. Touchscreen Hardware Faults
If the screen becomes unresponsive even after a clean software reinstall, it could be a hardware problem—and not directly related to iOS 18.
Common hardware reasons include:
- A failing digitiser
- Damage from drops (even without visible cracks)
- Loose internal display connector
- Previous screen replacement using non-OEM parts
Professionals offering iPhone Repair in Vancouver often diagnose whether the issue is software-related or a screen-related problem using specialised tools.
4. Battery Swelling Causing Pressure Behind Screen
In some cases, internal battery swelling may push against the screen, causing touch sensitivity to drop or trigger false touches. This issue typically comes with other signs:
- Screen lifting from the frame
- Warmer-than-usual back panel
- Short battery life
This is considered a safety issue and should be inspected immediately.
5. Third-Party Screen Replacements
If the device had a previous screen repair done using non-original parts, iOS 18 may struggle to work correctly with that screen. Apple’s newer updates are known to perform better with original or calibrated components.
Shops offering iPhone 16 Pro Max Repair in Vancouver use compatible or genuine parts to avoid this issue.
Solutions for Freezing and Touchscreen Issues
Depending on the root cause, these are some practical solutions.
1. Force Restart the Device
Hold the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons, then press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears.
This can resolve temporary freezes caused by software bugs or RAM overload.
2. Reset All Settings
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings
This won’t delete your data, but it will reset preferences, which often helps resolve UI lag or touch issues.
3. Reinstall iOS Using a Computer
Connect the iPhone to a Mac or PC and use Finder (or iTunes) to reinstall the operating system. Select “Update” — not “Restore” — to retain your data.
This replaces the OS core files and fixes many update-related issues.
4. Hardware Diagnosis
If none of the above solutions work, the issue may be hardware-related.
Repair shops in Vancouver can:
- Run a digitiser test using diagnostic tools
- Check the battery health.
- Reseat or replace display connectors
- Replace the screen if the digitiser is faulty.
If you’re dealing with ghost touch, a screen replacement may be necessary.
How Local Repair Shops Can Help
If you’re in Vancouver or surrounding cities like Burnaby, Coquitlam, or Richmond, and facing these problems, it’s best to have your device checked by a professional.
Local technicians offering iPhone Repair in Vancouver will:
- Confirm whether it’s a software or hardware fault
- Backup and restore your iOS (if needed)
- Replace screens using OEM-grade parts
- Run complete diagnostics test before and after repair
Tips to Avoid Touchscreen Problems in Future Updates
- Constantly update with at least 50% battery and Wi-Fi connection
- Ensure you have at least 5 GB of free storage before installing updates.
- Avoid downloading beta versions unless necessary.
- If you have had your screen replaced, ensure it’s calibrated using Apple diagnostics or a quality-tested third-party tools
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is a powerful device, but iOS 18 has introduced bugs that affect freezing and touchscreen performance for many users. In some cases, these are software-related and temporary. In others, they may be caused by screen faults or battery issues.
Suppose you’re dealing with these problems and need reliable iPhone 16 Pro Max Repair in Vancouver. In that case, it’s best to have the device inspected by experts who understand Apple’s software and hardware systems.
Go Cell Doctor offers diagnostic testing, screen replacements, and system fixes for freezing and touchscreen issues. For trusted iPhone Repair in Vancouver, reach out to a qualified team to get your device working correctly again.
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