Top 5 Solutions to Fix iPhone Rainbow Screen of Death

Updated by Brian Davis on Sep 26, 2025 • Category: iOS & iPhone Tips
6 mins read

Recently, a number of posts from people who use the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 have shown up on social sites like Reddit. Users have said that their iPhones screen has rainbow stripes which is a screen with different colored lines that never go away.

Some users have seen the problem on half the screen, while others see it on the whole screen. The issue of how to fix the rainbow screen on iPhone usually starts with the screen flickering. It may go away after a reset, but more often than not, better steps are needed. Try these solutions if you have the same problem and want to get rid of the device.

iphone rainbow screen of death

Part 1. Why iPhone Has Rainbow Screen of Death?

The "rainbow screen of death" on an iPhone is a term used to describe a problem that causes the device's screen to display a multicolored pinwheel or "spinning wheel" when an issue occurs while the device is booting up or running. This problem can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
1. Software issues: If the iPhone's operating system (iOS) becomes corrupted or there are conflicts with installed apps, the device may experience the rainbow screen of death.
2. Hardware problems: If an issue with the iPhone's hardware, such as a damaged component or a problem with the device's memory, it can cause the rainbow screen of death to appear.
3. Overheating: If the iPhone becomes overheated due to extended use or being in a hot environment, it can cause the rainbow screen of death to appear.
4. Power issues: If the iPhone's battery is low or there are issues with the device's charging system, it can cause the rainbow screen of death to appear.

If you are experiencing the iPhone rainbow screen of death, it is recommended that you try restarting the device, making sure it has a sufficient charge, and checking for any updates to the operating system or installed apps. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to seek assistance from Apple or a professional repair service.

Part 2: How to Fix iPhone Rainbow Screen of Death in 5 Methods

Way 1: Fix iPhone Rainbow Screen of Death in One Click

The direct way to solve your iPhone issues is to use a iOS repair tool like iOS System Recovery. TunesKit iOS System Recovery is a software tool designed to help users fix various issues with their iOS devices, such as iPhones, iPad, and iPod touch. It can repair many problems, including system crashes, being stuck on the Apple logo, a blank screen, a recovery mode loop, and many others. One of the main features of this kit is its ability to repair the device without causing data loss. This means that users can use the tool to fix their devices without worrying about losing any important information or files.

In addition to repairing problems with the iOS system, TunesKit iOS System Recovery can also be used to restore a device to its factory settings, erase all data from the device, and upgrade or downgrade the device's operating system. It is a comprehensive tool that can help users get their devices back to working order quickly and easily.

Key Features of TunesKit iOS System Recovery

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Now, let's see how to fix iPhone rainbow screeen of death by using TunesKit iOS System Recovery.

Step 1Connect your iPhone to your PC

To begin with, please connect your iPhone to the computer and launch TunesKit iOS System Recovery on your iPhone. Then, select the iOS System Repair option and click on the Start button.

connect ipad to pc

Step 2Choose repair mode

There are two different iOS repair modes for users to choose from in TunesKit iOS System Recovery. To fix iPhone rainbow screen of death problem, please select the Standard Repair mode. It is worth noting that though the Deep Repair mode can fix more questions, it will erase all data and content from your iPhone.

select a mode to fix ipad air charging failure

Step 3Download firmware package

Here, TunesKit iOS System Recovery will start to download the firmware package to fix the problem on your iPhone. Check the onscreen information is correct, or you will need to correct it manually. Click on the Download button for the next step.

download firmware package

Step 4Fix iPhone rainbow screen of death

At last, TunesKit iOS System Recovery will start to fix the iPhone rainbow screen of death problem on your iPhone once the firmware package is downloaded. After that, your iPhone will back to its normal state.

fix iphone rainbow screen of death

Way 2: Force Restart Your iPhone

A force restart is more powerful than a standard reboot. It cuts the power to the phone's processes and can clear up temporary software conflicts that might be causing the rainbow screen issue. The method varies depending on your iPhone model.

For iPhone 8 or later (including iPhone SE 2nd & 3rd gen): Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then quickly press and release the Volume Down button. Finally, press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Sleep/Wake (Side) button simultaneously. Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 6s or earlier (including iPhone SE 1st gen): Press and hold both the Home button and the Sleep/Wake (Top or Side) button at the same time. Release both when you see the Apple logo.

force restart your iphone

If the screen returns to normal after the restart, the issue was likely a minor software glitch. However, if the rainbow pattern persists, proceed to the next step.

Way 3: Update or Restore iPhone via Recovery Mode

If a force restart doesn't help, the next step is to use Recovery Mode. This allows you to reinstall iOS without erasing your data (by updating) or to perform a full factory reset (by restoring). You will need a Mac or a PC with iTunes (or Finder on newer macOS versions).

Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB cable.

Step 2: Follow the button sequence for your specific model, but do not release the buttons when you see the Apple logo. Wait until you see the recovery mode screen, which shows a computer icon and a cable.

  • iPhone 8 or later: Press and release Volume Up, press and release Volume Down, then press and hold the Side button.
  • iPhone 7 / 7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down and Side buttons together.
  • iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold the Home and Side (or Top) buttons together.

Step 3: Once your computer detects the iPhone in recovery mode, it will present you with two options: "Update" or "Restore."

  • Choose "Update" first. This will attempt to reinstall iOS without affecting your personal data. Your computer will download the latest software for your device.
  • If the update fails or does not resolve the rainbow screen, repeat the steps to enter recovery mode and choose "Restore." Be aware that this will erase all data and settings on your iPhone and install a fresh version of iOS.

restore iphone with itunes

Way 4: Use DFU mode to Restore your iPhone

Using DFU mode is the most exhaustive software troubleshooting step you can take to fix an issue like the iPhone's "Rainbow Screen of Death." It's a last resort when other software fixes, like a force restart or a standard Recovery Mode restore, have failed.

Device Firmware Update (DFU) mode allows your computer to interface with your iPhone's firmware without loading the operating system or bootloader. This enables a complete and deep restoration of your device's software, which can sometimes resolve persistent and severe issues. However, be aware that a DFU restore will completely erase all data on your iPhone.

How to Perform a DFU Restore

You will need a Mac or a Windows PC with the latest version of iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).

Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Open Finder on your Mac or iTunes on your PC.

Step 2: Then you should manually enter DFU mode.

For iPhone 8 or later (including iPhone SE 2nd & 3rd gen):

  • Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
  • Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
  • Press and hold the Side button.
  • As soon as the screen turns black, press and hold the Volume Down button while still holding the Side button.
  • After 5 seconds, release the Side button but continue to hold the Volume Down button for at least another 5-10 seconds.

For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:

  • Press and hold both the Side button and the Volume Down button together.
  • Hold them for about 8-10 seconds.
  • Release the Side button but continue to hold the Volume Down button for another 5 seconds.

For iPhone 6s or earlier (including iPhone SE 1st gen)::

  • Press and hold both the Home button and the Lock (Side or Top) button together.
  • Hold them for about 8 seconds.
  • Release the Lock button but continue to hold the Home button for another 5 seconds.

icon Note

A key sign you are in DFU mode is that your iPhone's screen will remain completely black. If you see the Apple logo or a computer icon, you're in Recovery Mode, not DFU mode, and need to start over.

put iphone into dfu mode

Your computer should display a message stating, "A new iPhone has been detected in recovery mode. You must restore this iPhone before it can be used." This message, combined with a black screen on the iPhone, confirms you are in DFU mode.

Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts on your computer to restore your iPhone. Your computer will download the latest firmware from Apple and perform a complete installation on your device. This process can take a significant amount of time, so ensure your computer remains on and the iPhone stays connected.

dfu mode itunes

Way 5: Contact Apple Store

Most of the time, if you see lines on your iPhone screen, it's because of a problem with the hardware. It can happen if you drop your iPhone on a hard surface or if liquid gets on it. If your iPhone's screen has vertical lines, the LCD cable is likely no longer connected to the logic board. Set up a time to meet with a technician at your local Apple Store, especially if an AppleCare+ Protection Plan protects your iPhone. They can be there in an hour to help you fix the problem with the lines on your iPhone.

contact apple support

Part 3: FAQs about iPhone Rainbow Screen of Death

  • 1. How can I prevent the iPhone Rainbow Screen of Death?

    Avoid Dropping or Exposing Your iPhone to Water: Using a protective case and keeping the iPhone away from liquids can prevent hardware damage.
    Install iOS Updates: Always keep the phone's software up to date to avoid glitches.
    Use Original Parts for Repairs: If you need a screen or battery replacement, always go to an Apple-authorized service center to avoid compatibility issues.

  • 2. Does the Rainbow Screen mean my iPhone is permanently damaged?

    Not necessarily. In many cases, the issue is fixable, either by a software reset or professional repair. However, if the internal components are severely damaged, you might need a replacement.

  • 3. Is the Rainbow Screen of Death covered by warranty?

    If your iPhone is under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, hardware issues may be repaired for free or at a reduced cost. Damage due to accidents (like drops or water) may not be covered unless you have AppleCare+.

  • 4. Why does the issue reoccur after repairs?

    Poor quality repairs or parts. Also, if the issue keeps coming back after repairs, it might indicate a deeper underlying hardware problem. In some cases, a software glitch that persists despite updates.

Part 4: Conclusion

Without a great display that works well, your device is almost useless. Problems of iPhone screens having rainbow stripes could also be caused by the settings and system updates that aren't working right. TunesKit iOS System Recovery lets people fix issues without going to a repair shop. With the tool, you can fix common problems with any model of iPhone in just a few minutes. Try out TunesKit iOS System Recovery. If you like it, you can pay for the premium version to get the most out of it.

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