Phones have gotten more advanced over the years. However, they can still suffer from the same complications that affected their predecessors. Among the most dreaded ones are the bootloop and deadloop issues.
What are Bootloops and Deadboots?
A bootloop (short for reboot loop) occurs when a device – whether it’s a phone or a computer – encounters an issue while doing its boot-up sequence, causing an endless booting cycle. Meanwhile, a deadboot happens when a device fails to turn on following a shutdown or restart.
What Causes Bootloops and Deadboots?
Bootloops usually start following a software-related change to a device. It could be a system update or even a recently installed app. Hardware issues like a broken battery can also cause a bootloop. This also applies to deadboots, which are mostly associated with faulty hardware.
How to Fix Bootloop Issues?
Realistically, there are only a few things you can do if your phone encounters a bootloop problem:
- Perform a factory reset. This is the easiest troubleshooting option as most phones have button combinations that can initiate the process. This means you won’t need to use any other thing aside from your device. If a factory reset gets rid of the bootloop issue, then it’s likely the problem was software-related. Just be warned: a factory reset will delete all your data, so make sure to back up your important files if possible.
- Contact support. If a factory reset is not enough, it’s time to call your phone’s support center. They may be able to give you other troubleshooting methods, or even ask you to ship your device for repairs or a replacement.
- Have your device checked and repaired by a third-party professional. Unless you’re a hardware repair specialist (or are willing to spend years to become one), then the chances of you reviving your device on your own are slim. So just listen to us and go to a pro, who has the proper tools for fixing your phone.
How to Fix a Deadboot
Much like with a bootloop issue, your options for diagnosing and solving a deadboot are quite limited.
- Contact support. We’re going straight to support and not recommending any user fixes because deadboots are usually caused by hardware issues. That means any real attempt at resolving deadboots will involve tampering with your device. Sure, you could pry open your phone’s back panel and try to check the motherboard, the battery, and other components. A lot of people have reported their successful self-repairs. But any small mistake could lead to your device becoming even more damaged. As such, we recommend contacting support immediately and getting your options from them.
- Have your device checked and repaired by a third-party professional. Again, if support fails, then this is the next best option for most people. At best, you may just need a battery replacement. At worst, it might be time to go window shopping for a new phone. For the unfortunate, you could try to find the perfect budget Android phone for you with our guide here.
