Capturing exactly what you see on your iPhone 7 Plus screen is a fundamental skill for documenting errors, sharing memorable moments, or saving information for later. While the physical design of this device lacks a dedicated home button, the method for taking a screenshot remains intuitive and quick. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the process, ensuring you can preserve your screen with precision every time.
Understanding the Hardware Layout
To successfully capture a screenshot, you first need to locate the specific buttons responsible for this action. On the iPhone 7 Plus, the necessary hardware is divided between the sides and the top of the device. Unlike newer models that utilize a single button, this model relies on a combination of two distinct physical components.
Side Button and Volume Controls
On the right side of the phone, you will find the Side Button, which is used to lock the screen or wake the device from sleep. This is the primary trigger for the screenshot action. Additionally, on the left side of the phone, you will see two volume buttons: the Volume Up button at the top and the Volume Down button at the bottom. The specific combination of these buttons is what creates the screenshot.
Standard Method for Taking a Screenshot
The most common way to capture your screen involves pressing two buttons simultaneously. This action tricks the operating system into saving an image of the current display without requiring any third-party applications. The key is to press the buttons at the exact same moment to ensure the capture is clean and immediate.
Position your thumb or finger on the Side Button located on the right side of the phone.
Place your index or middle finger on the Volume Up button on the left side.
Press and release both buttons quickly and firmly at the exact same time.
You will see a brief flash animation on the screen and hear a camera shutter sound, indicating the image has been saved.
Alternative Technique for Different Hand Sizes
Not all users can comfortably reach the Side Button and the left-side Volume Up button with one hand, especially if they have larger hands or the phone is positioned flat on a surface. For this reason, Apple designed the function to work with the buttons on opposite sides, allowing for flexibility in how you hold the device.
Hold the phone horizontally in your hand or place it flat on a table.
Use your thumb or finger to press the Side Button on the right edge.
Without lifting that finger, use your other hand to press the Volume Up button on the left edge.
This two-handed approach often provides more stability and leverage for a successful capture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, the screenshot does not work as expected, which can be frustrating. If the screen does not flash or the sound does not play, it usually means the buttons were not pressed correctly or the action was registered as a different function. Understanding these mistakes helps you correct them immediately.
Why It Might Not Work
The most frequent mistake is pressing the buttons in the wrong order or holding one down before pressing the other. If you press the Side Button first and then the Volume button, the phone will activate the lock screen slider instead of taking a screenshot. Similarly, pressing the Volume Down button instead of the Volume Up button will also fail to capture the image.
To fix this, ensure you press the Side Button and the Volume Up Button simultaneously. If the issue persists, check that the buttons are not damaged or stuck, as physical obstructions can prevent the signal from registering correctly.
