A not-so-common problem with the iPad is that the screen becomes dim or “blurred,” often predominantly filled with a single color, usually green, red, or blue. This “green screen” problem can be caused by a simple software glitch, at which point the fix is easy, or a hardware problem, which can be a bit more difficult to fix.
First: Restart your iPad
The first step in fixing most problems is to simply restart your device. When you put iPad to sleep by clicking the Sleep/Wake button on the top of the device or closing the Smart Cover, you’re not actually turning iPad off. To turn it off, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button for several seconds, releasing it only when the iPad asks you to slide a button to turn it off. When you see this message, slide the button with your finger and the iPad will turn off.
Once the screen has gone completely dark, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button until you see the Apple logo on the screen. At this point, you can release the button. The iPad will take a few more seconds to fully boot up.
Next: Reset to factory defaults
If a simple reset doesn’t work, the best thing to do is reset your iPad to the state it was in when you first bought it. This involves erasing all of your iPad settings and data, so it’s very important to back up your iPad first, preferably using iCloud. If you have an iCloud backup, you can restore from that backup during the startup processes.
You can reset iPad by going to Settings, selecting General Settings, and scrolling to the bottom until you see the Reset option. To reset to factory defaults, you will need to choose “Erase all content and settings”. The iPad will ask you to confirm your choice before continuing, and the entire process may take a few minutes.
After the iPad restarts, it will guide you through the steps to set up iPad for use. One of these steps includes signing in to your iCloud account and restoring it from backup. After this is complete, the iPad should be mostly the way you had it before you started the process.
If the iPad reset doesn’t work…
If you’re still having trouble even after restoring iPad to factory defaults, you might have a hardware problem. The best way to resolve this is to go to an Apple Store or call Apple Support at 1-800-676-2775. However, if your iPad is out of warranty, it can be a costly problem to fix. In fact, you might end up better off simply buying a new iPad.
But if you’re not under warranty, there’s one thing you can try. We caution that this is a “last resort” and should only be used if your only option is to throw your iPad away and buy a new one.
The problem with the colors is probably due to something being loose on the iPad. Many people have been able to fix this problem by giving the back of the iPad a few hard knocks. Of course, any time you physically hit a device like an iPad, you risk some damage, so this is more of a last resort. If you’re still under warranty, you might want to play it safe by simply getting the iPad fixed.
Before you try, make sure the iPad is asleep. You don’t want the screen to turn on while you’re trying to fix it.
The recommended advice is to hit the iPad on the back with three hard slaps. You shouldn’t hit it hard enough to break something, but hard enough to fix the problem. If this doesn’t work, you can try tapping the iPad on the back in the top right corner. This is where the problem probably lies. Some users sit down and bump the iPad against their knee to accomplish this.
Again, you shouldn’t use enough force to physically damage the iPad, so don’t put all your muscle into it. You should also use this tip as a last resort.
My iPad still doesn’t work…
If all else fails, you’ll need to replace the iPad. There are many ways to get a good deal on an iPad, including buying a refurbished unit. Another way to help pay for your iPad is to list the one you already own on eBay or Craigslist “for parts.” Believe it or not, broken electronics can be sold. Even an iPad with a cracked screen can cost anywhere from $20 to $50.
