How to unlock phone that has a shattered screen?

[iMas70]

The screen on my daughter’s phone is shattered with a bunch of lines on it. Can’t see any of the display. I’d like to do an iTunes backup to restore from but she can’t see the keyboard to type in her password. Is it possible or will I just have to use the last iCloud backup?

 

[nieks]

But apparently you have iCloud backups enabled. Assuming the last backup was last time while locked and charging, probably last night, you could just get the screen repaired? No need for extra backup, by the looks of it.

In addition, if you need to type in the password on the phone in order to sync, and you can't because of the broken screen, I suppose the only option is to use the last iCloud backup.

 

[NoBoMac]

Add: also depends on iOS version on the device. If have the USB lock option on, can't iTunes backup until can enter the password. So, yeah, might have to use last iCloud backup.

 

[Minho]

If you don't want to lose any data since the last backup, get a replacement screen. You could get a cheap screen just to unlock the phone or get a better one, unlock the phone and continue using it or sell it. That way you recover your "investment".

 

[iMas70]

It's a hand me down iPhone 5 or 5S. It came from her Mom so its not worth replacing the screen. She'll be getting my old iPhone 6 to use until Christmas.

Aren't there some things that aren't saved when we do an iCloud backup?

 

[Minho]

What does iCloud back up?
https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT207428

iPhone 5S screens are cheap nowadays...why not change it and give a second/third life rather than going to the landfill. The 5S is still a relevant phone. At any rate, it's your decision, just giving you options.

 

[nieks]

It came from her Mom so its not worth replacing the screen.

Why is it not worth replacing? That's a weird way of thinking. If it still functions, and you are able to replace the screen, why would you choose to toss it?? I agree with Minho on this one: a 5s screen is a cheap repair, the phone is still fine. Indeed your decision, but to say that because it's an older model, it's not worth it replacing the screen, is rubbish.

But that's just my opinion

 

[iMas70]

I understand what you mean. I'm looking at it as I had a 6 available for her to use and she'll be getting an 8 or XR for Christmas. So no use spending money on a new screen then time to replace it (I've never replaced one) or pay to have it replaced. The phone will be sitting anyway.

 

[Minho]

I understand what you mean. I'm looking at it as I had a 6 available for her to use and she'll be getting an 8 or XR for Christmas. So no use spending money on a new screen then time to replace it (I've never replaced one) or pay to have it replaced. The phone will be sitting anyway.

Then you could sell it or donate it to a charitable organization...