Touch Screen Not Working
GoPro Action Camera
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
A GoPro touch screen that won't respond is almost always a software freeze. Hold the Mode button for 10 seconds to force a restart — this fixes the vast majority of cases.
Affected Models
- GoPro HERO 12
- GoPro HERO 11
- GoPro HERO 10
- GoPro HERO 9
- GoPro HERO 8
Common Causes
- Software crash or freeze
- Water on the screen (capacitive screens don't work when wet)
- Screen locked to prevent accidental input
- Physical damage to the touchscreen after a drop
- Very cold temperatures reducing touchscreen sensitivity
How to Fix It
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Force restart the camera.
Hold the Mode button (side button) for 10 seconds. The camera will shut off. Press the Mode button once to power back on. This clears almost all software-related touch screen failures.
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Dry the screen completely.
Capacitive touchscreens don't respond to wet fingers or water droplets on the surface. GoPros get wet during use — dry the screen with a cloth before trying to touch it.
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Check if the screen is locked.
GoPro has a screen lock feature to prevent accidental swipes. Look for a lock icon on screen. Swipe from the bottom or hold the Mode button to unlock, depending on your model.
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Use the physical Mode and Shutter buttons instead.
Every GoPro can be fully controlled with just the physical buttons if the touch screen fails. Mode button cycles through modes; Shutter button records or takes a photo.
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Warm the camera if in very cold conditions.
Below -5°C, capacitive touchscreens become unresponsive. Warm the camera inside your jacket for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the GoPro touch screen be replaced?
Yes — GoPro touch screen replacements are available for most HERO models. Replacement is a technical repair requiring careful disassembly. GoPro's own service centre is the safest option, or a specialist camera repair shop.