Find problem apps by rebooting to safe mode

Some apps that you can download may cause your device to keep restarting itself, freezing, crashing, or be slow. You can
use safe mode to start your device with only the original software and apps that came with your device. If the issues go
away in safe mode, the problem is probably caused by a third-party app downloaded on your device.

Reboot to safe mode

Option 1: If your device is on

If your device's screen is on, follow these steps to reboot to safe mode:

1. Press & hold the Power button.

2. In the box that opens, touch & hold Power off.
3. You’ll see a “Reboot to safe mode” box. Tap OK.
4. Your device will start in safe mode. You'll see the words "Safe mode" in a box at the bottom.

Option 2: If your device is off

If your device is powered down, follow these steps to boot to safe mode:

1. Press the Power button.

2. After the Google logo has shown on your screen, when the animation starts, press & hold the Volume
down button. Keep holding it until the animation ends and your device starts in safe mode.
3. In a box at the bottom of your screen, you'll see the words "Safe mode."

Find problem apps with safe mode

To find problem apps in safe mode, use your device normally and see whether the problem goes away.

Remember that you can use only original apps in safe mode, not any downloaded apps.

Issue goes away in safe mode

Issue doesn't go away in safe mode

Exit safe mode

To leave safe mode, hold the Power button for about 30 seconds to restart your device.

Tip: Safe mode removes some Home screen widgets. After you exit safe mode, you can add back your widgets.
Related links
• Fix an Android app that isn't working
• Speed up a slow device
• Troubleshoot a device that restarts on its own
• Troubleshoot a device that freezes

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