A method and an apparatus for powering on a terminal. The method for powering on a terminal includes collecting, by a pressure detection sensor disposed inside a housing of a terminal, a value of pressure; sending, by the pressure detection sensor, an interrupt request to a power management unit (PMU) when the value of the pressure collected by the pressure detection sensor meets a set condition; and outputting, by the PMU, a power supply maintaining signal after receiving the interrupt request, so as to power on the terminal.