What to do if your Galaxy phone won’t power on properly?

If your Galaxy phone won't turn on, there are a few things to check. In most cases, the phone is not charging properly, or the device may be damaged. Refer to the guide below for more information.

Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version. To update your mobile device's software, follow these steps: 

Step 1. Go to Settings > Software update.

Step 2. Tap on Download and install.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

1. Charge the battery sufficiently before turning on the phone

You need to charge the battery first before turning on your phone. If the battery is completely discharged, the device cannot be turned on immediately even when the charger is connected. So, to turn it on, you need to charge the battery for at least a few minutes. After charging the battery, try to turn the phone on again.

Discharged battery power on

Note:

  • The required charging time to turn on the device may differ by device and model.
  • The USB connection on a PC may not provide enough power to charge and use the phone or tablet at the same time because it will require significantly more time to charge. Power it off for a faster charge.

If the voltage, amperage and plug type of the charger are not compatible with your phone, the device may be seriously damaged. It is recommended to use a genuine charger certified by Samsung.

You can view and purchase authorised charging adapters and wireless chargers on the Samsung Mobile Accessories page.

Check your phone, charger, and USB cable for physical or liquid damage. If there is damage, it may be interfering with proper charging. After checking the following items, if any parts are damaged, replace them or contact the nearest Samsung service center for help.

  • Check the phone charging port and cables for corrosion, foreign objects, and bent pins.
  • Make sure your phone is not submerged, overheated, swelled or damaged.
  • The charging cable must be firmly attached to the charging port without shaking

With your phone turned off, press and hold the Side key and the Volume Up key simultaneously for more than 7 seconds to restart device. Release the buttons when your device vibrates and the Samsung logo appears.

Note: On some devices, you can use the Volume Down and Side key or Power button to perform a forced restart.

When the phone enters Android recovery instead of restarting, use the volume up and down keys to select Reboot system now and press the side key to select it. Your phone will restart normally again.

Note: If performed correctly, a forced restart will not erase any information from the phone.

If you're experiencing unusual behaviour on Samsung mobiles, tablets or wearables, you can send us an error report or ask us a question in the Samsung Members app.

This allows us to take a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymised and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about sending an error report through the Samsung Members app.

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