What to do if your phone keeps freezing

If your phone keeps freezing or becoming unresponsive, turn it off and let it sit for a couple of minutes. If the issue isn't resolved after restarting the device, plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and check for updates. Be sure to restart after any updates. If you can't turn off the phone, you may need to force a factory reset. You can also take your phone to a dealer or electronics repair shop for help.

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Why does my phone keep freezing up?

Reasons why your phone freezes might include the following:

  • It needs to be restarted: If your phone hasn't been turned off recently, it may need to be restarted to complete an update or reset network connections.
  • It's out of memory: If you have apps, photos, music, or other information taking up most of your phone's storage, you may be running low on space, which can lead to slow performance.
  • There was an OS update: OS updates can include bugs that need to be worked out. If you recently updated your phone, something in the new operating system may be causing an issue.
  • The battery is failing: Phone batteries don't last forever, and they can cause performance issues when they start to fail.
  • An app is experiencing a bug: App updates can have bugs that cause problems with your phone, or they may rely on capabilities exceeding your current OS version.
  • You need to clear the cache: If your phone is holding too much short-term memory, you may need to clear it to improve your phone's performance.
  • Your phone experienced physical damage: Drops, submersions, and even power surges can harm your phone's ability to operate.

Other reasons why your phone keeps freezing

When a phone freezes can be a hint as to why it's freezing. Try to isolate when the issue occurs so you can research it further or get professional help.

  • Does the phone freeze at startup or factory reset?
  • Does it become unresponsive when you try to open a particular app?
  • Does it happen after the phone has been on for a certain amount of time?
  • Has the phone not been restarted or reset in a long time?

Find out if cell phone insurance is worth it to protect your device from these issues.

Cell phone insurance can protect your device from accidental damage, theft, and weather-related damage. Get a cell phone insurance quote online or call 1-844-571-6742 to talk with a representative.

What should I do if I can't stop my phone from freezing up?

If your phone has started freezing or becoming unresponsive frequently and you're not able to resolve the issue on your own, you may need to consult a dealer or repair shop that can run diagnostics. In the worst case, you'll need to replace your phone. Before replacing your phone, back up all the existing information you want to keep. A retailer or repair shop can typically help with this process.

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Please note: The above is meant as general information to help you understand the different aspects of insurance. Read our editorial standards for Answers content. This information is not an insurance policy, does not refer to any specific insurance policy, and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions expressly stated in any insurance policy. Descriptions of all coverages and other features are necessarily brief; in order to fully understand the coverages and other features of a specific insurance policy, we encourage you to read the applicable policy and/or speak to an insurance representative. Coverages and other features vary between insurers, vary by state, and are not available in all states. Whether an accident or other loss is covered is subject to the terms and conditions of the actual insurance policy or policies involved in the claim. References to average or typical premiums, amounts of losses, deductibles, costs of coverages/repair, etc., are illustrative and may not apply to your situation. We are not responsible for the content of any third-party sites linked from this page.