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MMS

How to fix Galaxy S7 no signal or no cellular data issue, other issues

In case you have a similar #GalaxyS7 no signal issue, we decided to dedicate a portion of this post for it. Although circumstances may vary, a no signal or cellular data issue can have more or less the same set of potential solutions. We hope that the short guide on what to do about this issue can help our Android community.

Below are other issues discussed in this material today:

Facebook app unable to view or select pages, notifications intermittently
Galaxy S7 keyboard not working | Galaxy S7 stuck in Samsung logo screen
Galaxy S7 cannot send and receive MMS
How to fix Galaxy S7 no signal or no cellular data issue
Premium SMS not working on stock Samsung Galaxy S7 messaging app

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

When describing your issue, please be as detailed as possible so we can easily pinpoint a relevant solution. If you can, kindly include the exact error messages you are getting to give us an idea where to start. If you have already tried some troubleshooting steps before emailing us, make sure to mention them so we can skip them in our answers.

Problem #1: Facebook app unable to view or select pages, notifications intermittently

The fault is in the Facebook app & is intermittent. I am unable to select & view notifications, groups, pages etc. I have unistalled & reinstalled the app, cleared data & caches & force stop. All of these resolve the problem but only temporarily as it returns. The problem is occurring 3 or 4 times a day. My phone is only 6 weeks old & the problem has been happening for approximately 2 weeks. — Linda

Solution: Hi Linda. There’s only so much that you can do for a recurring app problem. If wiping an app’s cache and data and a complete re-installation won’t work, that’s probably because of a third party app interfering with it. Consider doing a factory reset and observing how Facebook app works without the other apps installed. After a factory reset, use Facebook for 24 hours so you will see a difference. Be sure not to install other applications during the observation period.

For reference, here are the steps on how to do a factory reset:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

Be reminded that factory reset will wipe everything in your phone’s primary storage device. Make sure that you create a backup of your files before proceeding.

Now, if Facebook app works just fine after a factory reset, that’s an indication that there may be a firmware glitch behind, or that a third party app is messing up with it when installed. Because there’s no surgical way to identify which of your third party apps may be to blame, you have to use elimination and trial-and-error methods to isolate it. The best way to do that is by observing how things work after you install one app. It may take some time but this is the only effective way.

On the other hand, if Facebook app remains buggy even after a factory reset, the issue may be beyond your ability to fix. The app or your carrier’s firmware may be improperly coded, resulting to the bugs you’re experiencing. Try to let Facebook know about the issue or contact your carrier so they can consult their developer team to fix it.

Problem #:2 Galaxy S7 keyboard not working | Galaxy S7 stuck in Samsung logo screen

About 2-3 months ago, the Samsung keyboard app that came with my Samsung Galaxy S7 (MetroPCS carrier rides on T-Mobile network) stopped working. That is all that the error message said “Samsung Keyboard stopped working.” I tried to restart. No joy.

I’m an old lady so I don’t know how to save my numerous contacts in my phone short of sitting down and writing them out by hand. So I didn’t want to factory reset if I could avoid it. I asked my son to help me. He downloaded the Swift Keyboard that he found at the Google Play Store. I used this until 4 days ago when I received an error message from Avast mobile protection stating that I needed to delete this app as it was going to harm my phone.

I downloaded the Swype and Dragon Trial Keyboard app due to the good reviews, also from Google Play Store. My phone stopped working around 10pm last night. The battery seemed to drain with little to no use in 2 hours and then about 4 a.m. it stopped working. I turned it on and it opened to the Samsung Galaxy page but then it stopped there. No access to any apps, screens, etc only this title page.

HELP. I can’t even factory reset at this point. — Nikki

Solution: Hi Nikki. There can be numerous reasons why a phone gets stuck in a Samsung logo page and won’t load normally. Sometimes, it can be a bad hardware, though most of the time, it’s just a software malfunction. We don’t know the full history of your device so we can’t give an accurate diagnosis but one of the most effective ways to force the phone to boot back normally is factory reset via hardware buttons. Simply follow the steps we give to Linda above so you can try this method.

If your phone won’t even boot to recovery mode (where you’ll be given the option to do a factory reset), you can also try to restart the phone in download mode. In this environment, you don’t have the same options as recovery mode but you can still make the phone boot back normally by manually installing a stock or custom operating system or ROM. Just like factory reset though, this procedure will delete everything stored in your phone’s storage device. If you want to go this route, try to use Google to search for instructions on how to flash a ROM on your S7.

Flashing is NOT a risk-free procedure. If you commit an improper step, there’s a chance that you can convert your S7 into an expensive paperweight. For example, ROM or firmware versions are distinct and carrier specific, which means that you can’t use a Verizon ROM for your T-Mobile or MetroPCS device. Doing so may result to an entirely different problem that we don’t want to discuss here. What we’re saying is that you need to know exactly what you’re doing if you want to modify your phone’s software. We know this must be too much for you but a good rule of thumb is, if you’re unsure, find someone who can help you do it.

Also, keep in mind that an issue like yours can also be caused by hardware error or even by a broken button. Although there’s no way to know that for sure unless you open and do advanced hardware diagnostics, it’s still a possibility. The best course of action that you can do though is to simply call your carrier or Samsung and ask them for a replacement unit. You may still lose your personal data but it will spare you from the hassles of doing advanced solutions.

Problem #3: Galaxy S7 cannot send and receive MMS

I’m having a problem w/ my Messaging app on my Android. When using Messaging, I cannot send or receive pictures. I can send/receive text messages just fine – but no pics. When I try, it just says “Unfortunately, Messaging has stopped.”

Here are a few things – some tips via your website – I have tried but to no avail:

I have deleted all text messages. It wiped out all my text messages, as expected, but didn’t solve the problem.
I cleared the cache and data within the Messaging app. (Though I notice it clears to 000 but goes back to 76.00KB soon after – is that normal?)
I checked for any system updates and ran these.
I started under Safe Mode to see if the problem persisted and if it could be third-party app related, but the problem remained.

I don’t want to do a factory reset. I don’t want to lose all my contacts, pics etc.

I should mention that I can send/receive pics just fine using WhatsApp so the problem is limited to Messaging apps. I tried to use another message app called Messaging Plus but like Messaging, that didn’t allow the sending/receiving of pictures either.

Any suggestions other than the factory reset?

Please help. Please? — Manuela

Solution: Hi Manuela. WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Hangouts and similar apps are using a different system to send and receive messages. They don’t need to go through your carrier’s SMS and MMS network in order to work. That they work fine on your device is an indication that the cause of the problem is either due to a problem with your account, network, or standard messaging apps.

If you have a GSM-based phone, try to insert your SIM card to another phone to see if you can send your number an MMS. Doing a test sending will tell you if sending and receiving are working on your account. If the issue remains on a different phone, be sure to call your carrier so they can check if there is any network or account problem that prevents you from sending and receiving MMS.

On the other hand, if test sending works fine on another device, the problem must be on your Galaxy S7 configuration, particularly the APN settings. Contact your carrier and ask for assistance on how to configure your device’s APN.

Problem #4: How to fix Galaxy S7 no signal or no cellular data issue

The phone will not receive any service or data at all. I have done a factory reset, checked into mobile network but the network LTE setting is just shaded and i am unable to change it. There is no APN at all. There is no Wi-Fi at my house so the phone has been changed to cellular preferred calling. Wi-Fi calling is disabled. There is a new enabled SIM card.

I’ve called T-Mobile tech support and Samsung tech support and neither solved the solution. Please help me. I’d rather fix the phone than let my father get an iPhone. I’ve been told that he updated the phone and within a minute the phone lost 90% of its battery and shut off. It did this twice and stopped receiving data thing morning. — Troy

Solution: Hi Troy. We can’t see the logic of an update causing a phone to lose cellular connectivity but if this is the only change you’ve done prior to experiencing the problem, the loss of signal may either be pure coincidence, or an update bug. To fix the issue, kindly try the following solutions below:

Insert your SIM card to another LTE capable phone to check if it gets a signal.
Try using another T-Mobile SIM card and insert it to your S7. if this other SIM receives a signal, the SIM card may be defective. Try to call T-Mobile so you can process a SIM replacement.
Restart the phone and check again if LTE option under Network settings is enabled. If it remains greyed out, or if you are unable to add or edit the APN, the problem may be firmware-related. This means that the update has either disabled some features and functions, or is simply corrupted. Call your carrier and ask for a replacement phone.
Call T-Mobile and verify if your account is in good standing, or free from any billing-related restrictions that may prevent LTE service to work. There may be some account changes that you’re not aware of. If you are not the one paying for your account, make sure to check if the person in charge switches your data plan to another or if there are blocks and restrictions in place. You also want to know if there are any outages in the area at this time.
If all these things won’t fix the issue, consider asking for a phone replacement.

Problem #5: Premium SMS not working on stock Samsung Galaxy S7 messaging app

Premium SMS would not send in Samsung messenger app. However, I have been able to send them through 3rd party apps. Permissions to enable this feature do not appear in applications manager. After clearing data and cache and rebooting, all the previous settings and messages are still there. Please help.me resolve this issue. Thanks! — Nicky

Solution: Hi Nicky. Premium SMS are subject to agreements between your wireless carrier and a third party. If it doesn’t work when you’re using the standard messaging app, that’s probably because your carrier blocks it, does not allow such type of SMS on their network, or the stock messaging app does not support it. There is no device-specific setting/s that you can change to make it work. Contact your carrier and learn more about the issue via its customer support.

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MMS on Galaxy S6 creates separate conversation thread, other issues

Welcome to another post about #GalaxyS6! Our post today covers 6 issues shared by our community members. Don’t forget to also visit our S6 troubleshooting page for our previously published articles.

MMS on Galaxy S6 creates separate conversation thread
Galaxy S6 does not power on
Galaxy S6 lags and loses battery power fast
Galaxy S6 won’t factory reset under Settings
Galaxy S6 is not recognized by computers
Replacement Galaxy S6 has fast charging feature not working and battery drain issue

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: MMS on Galaxy S6 creates separate conversation thread

I have a Verizon phone but my carrier is AT&T. Regular SMS text messages, phone calls etc., work. However, when I receive a picture (MMS message) my phone creates a separate text thread for that person as if we are in a group. It will not come through the regular text thread that already exists. For example, I’m sending regular texts to John, John then sends me a picture. I have to go to my conversation list and click on a whole new thread my phone created, and it is now a group conversation message with “Me, John”. If I text back in this new thread in the group, it sends me a separate message just to me as well, but not to the original text messages John and I had while just texting. It is like the messages do not recognize my number as being my phone and sends them to me twice.

All APN options are correct and mobile data is on etc. I’m not using a 3rd party messaging app. I am using the Samsung message program within the phone, which is set as the default messaging service. — Greg

Solution: Hi Greg. Did the issue start to appear after installing an update for Android or your messaging app? If yes, make sure to delete the phone’s cache partition first, then wipe the cache and data of the app involved. Below are the steps that you must do:

How to wipe the cache partition of Galaxy S6 Edge

Turn the device off.
Press and hold the Power, Volume Up and Home buttons simultaneously.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power button but continue to press and hold the Volume Up and Home buttons.
Now, when Android recovery screen appears, highlight the wipe cache partition option using Volume Down button.
To confirm the selection, press the Power button.
Wait for a while until wiping the cache partition is finished.
Now, “Reboot System now” will appear on the screen. To highlight the option use the Volume Up/Down key.
Press the power button to confirm it, and your device will automatically reboot.

How to delete an app’s cache and data

Go to Settings.
Proceed to Applications.
Select Manage Applications.
Tap the All tab.
Choose the name of the app by tapping it.
From there, you will see the Clear Cache and Clear Data buttons.

If nothing changes after doing these procedures, or if you’ve already done them, the cause of the problem may be firmware-specific. That means that poor coding makes the current operating system work improperly resulting to this erratic behavior. Be sure to get the latest Android software update. You can also try to do a factory reset to see the difference.

Problem #2: Galaxy S6 does not power on

At first it wouldn’t hold a charge. It is not hardware issue. I tried several different charging devices. I believe, the AT&T carrier representative did a hard/soft reset. Returned to factory settings. I don’t know if it completed a software update also. It said something about trying to use an alternative operating system as a selection/option.

I believe I’m at this point of the troubleshooting: Otherwise, I recommend you wipe the cache partition if there’s enough battery left, if not, then you need help from a tech.

I did not have enough battery life to complete the cache partition. The AT&T carrier rep advised I have it sit with the original charger for a few hours and if that does not work, I must warranty it.

After he did the factory reset for a short time after it was showing the charging lighting bolt consistently, but not gaining percentages. Now…. nothing. Please HELP! Pretty Pretty Please. — Stephanie

Solution: Hi Stephanie. The first thing that you can do is to see if your phone still responds to hardware button combinations. Before you do this, make sure that the phone has been charging for at least an hour. The first thing hardware button combination that you can try is to boot the phone in recovery mode. Here’s how it’s done:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.

If your phone can’t boot into recovery mode, try to go to download mode. Using the same steps above, simply press the Volume Down, Home and Power buttons at the same time for at least 10 seconds.

You can also boot in safe mode by doing these steps:

Press and hold the Volume Down and Power keys for 20 to 30 seconds.
Once you see the Samsung logo, release the Power key immediately but continue pressing the Volume Down key.
Your phone should continue booting up and you will be prompted to unlock your phone as usual.
You will know if the phone successfully booted in safe mode if the text “Safe mode” is displayed at the lower-left corner of the screen.

If your phone still fails to boot to any of these modes, you can assume that a hardware issue may be at play. Make sure that you have unit checked or replaced.

Problem #3: Galaxy S6 lags and loses battery power fast

I got my S6 like half a year now. And it is really terrible! it is totally slow when i open apps, going back to the home screen or doing anything else. Everything lags!

Another problem i have is that my power is going down very rapidly, so i had to buy a power bank and charge my phone like 2-3 times a day even though i am not using it that much.

Thirdly, it suddenly crashes sometimes. or my music just begins to play without pushing any button.

i tried a hard reset but it didn’t help. Furthermore i try to clear my cache as you have explained it in your article but that didn’t work. when i have reached the second white screen, the screen turned black with a small picture of a mobile phone and inside of it a red triangle with an exclamation mark in it. After like 2 minutes, my phone restarts and I’m coming back to my home screen.

Please help me! it is really awkward having my phone and i don’t have enough money to buy me a new one. — Katharina

Solution: Hi Katharina. There are two potential causes to the issues you mention here — either the phone is infected with a virus or malware, or there are many apps running actively and in the background at the same time. The best thing that you can do first is to do a factory reset. For serious firmware-related issues, the factory reset is often the ultimate fix. It’s because it will bring the phone back to its factory defaults by deleting all files, data, settings, apps, personal information, accounts, etc. Ensure to create a backup of your personal data first before doing the steps below:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, highlight the option, ‘wipe data/factory reset’ and press the Power key to select it.
Press the Volume Down button again until the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted and then press the Power key to select it.
After the reset is complete, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and hit the Power key to restart the phone.

Now, doing a factory reset is, in itself won’t be an effective fix if you will not be careful what apps to install. After the factory reset, be sure not to install least used apps or those applications that may be the reason of the problems. Although it’s tricky to know what app is exactly the cause of the problem, in general, you must get rid of games and downloaders. Least known developers tend to monetize their products by resorting to dubious means which can include allowing viruses, adware, and even malicious software to piggyback on their app so they can get paid. Most developers intentionally publish their apps for monetary gain. If their product can’t get enough audience, they may switch to other suspect means of making money.

If you are fond of installing free apps, it’s time to review them. Stick to official apps if possible and avoid installing new ones if you are not sure where they come from.

Problem #4: Galaxy S6 won’t factory reset under Settings

I’ve been able to factory rest my phone before through SETTINGS but now it annoyingly refuses to hard reset even though I’ve tried many times…all it does is restart the phone.

Also there is this message that I usually get this period which even usually terminates whatever I am doing with the phone: “measure not responding” or “Unfortunately Measure has stopped”. Actually there was a time something was happening which I did not understand and I uninstalled the program called measure thinking it was a Malware that just installed on its own trying to attack my phone and slowing it down. But now it appears that this program is a critical system app (well I don’t really know that for sure yet).

So please what is your diagnosis and help me get my phone back to it factory state. — Anderson

Solution: Hi Anderson. We’re not aware of a critical app for Samsung devices called Measure but it can be a carrier-specific app instead. This may be the reason why the error comes up everytime you do something. If you are not sure of this, be sure that you do a master reset. Simply follow the steps provided on how to do a factory reset above.

Problem #5: Galaxy S6 is not recognized by computers

Hello. I have been having difficulty for the past two weeks attempting to get my phone and computer to cooperate and I was hoping you could help. Prior to two weeks ago I would plug my phone (using its original cable) into my computer and on my phone I would click something to the effect of to share content from my phone via media or camera to my computer. Once I completed that, I was free to interchange music pictures etc.

For the past two weeks when I plug my phone into my computer nothing happens other than my phone begins to charge. What I mean by nothing happens is there is no sounds from either my phone or computer upon plugging in (because I do believe there was a dig of some sorts prior to these two weeks) or unplugging, there is no appearing of any sort of icon on the bottom left icon widget bar on my computer or next to my local C Drive under the folder of MY PC. There is also no option on my phone for choosing which setting to connect to my computer with.

I have tried multiple times over the past two weeks to repeat my previous successful endeavors including restarting both pieces of technology, downloading the USB drivers for my computer and smart switch for my phone. I have tried plugging in another USB into my computer prior and post download of the USB driver and it still works. I have tried plugging in my phone to another computer (a Mac) and it shows USB installer options. I am unaware of how to proceed, if assistance is possible I would very much appreciate it.

Thank you. — Kathryn

Solution: Hi Kathryn. For an issue like this, make sure that you verify the obvious first. Try to connect the phone to your PC again then go over to your phone Settings menu. Once you’re in settings, go to Storage then tap on the more options menu icon at the upper right hand side (three-dot icon) to access USB computer connection option. Under normal circumstances, the Media device (MTP) should be shown. If nothing happens when you press the More menu icon, this means that your computer has a driver problem. Sometimes, a computer’s operating system may encounter USB-related errors especially if you use multiple USB devices (flash drives, keyboard, mouse, cameras, smartphones, etc.) all the time.

With your phone still connected to your PC via USB, navigate to your computer’s Device Manager under Control Panel. If your computer detects your phone but cannot read it properly, your device should be shown as one of the items. Make sure to right click on your device and click on “Update Driver Software”. Follow the rest of the instructions and let your computer look for available drivers online.

You can also try to use third party Windows applications like USBDeview to uninstall unnecessary USB devices. If you don’t want to install any app on your computer, simply go over the list in your Device Manager page and uninstall as many USB devices as possible. Make sure you don’t disconnect peripherals like a USB keyboard or mouse though.

Lastly, don’t forget the good old trick of enabling USB debugging option under Developer options.

Problem #6: Replacement Galaxy S6 has fast charging feature not working and battery drain issue

I saw your article on the Samsung S6 Edge having charging issues. I am now on my SECOND Samsung S6 because my first one wouldn’t not charge at all. I went to my Phone Service Carrier, and they sent me a new phone. My new phone is having the same issues as my first one. I received the fast charger in the box with my first phone, and I use this charger to charge my phone. My phone will not accept the fast charger function anymore. It will still charge but not “fast” (it will not be labeled as “Fast Charging.”). It will still say its “charging,” but I will leave my phone turned off, plugged in for hours waiting for it charge and it will charge about 5% an hour.

My battery drains at about the same rate as before I was having these charging issues, and I haven’t dropped/cracked/damaged my phone externally in anyway. Is there a simple way to fix this, do I just need a new charger, etc. I don’t want to have to spend money if I don’t have to. Thank you. — Gwen

Solution: Hi Gwen. Did you install the same set of apps after getting the replacement phone? If yes, that’s an indication that one of your apps must be causing this trouble. Do a factory reset and observe the phone for at least 24 hours. Make sure you don’t install any app during this period.

Engage with us

Galaxy S7 losing network and LTE connectivity, other issues

For those looking for solutions to their #GalaxyS7 issues, this post might help. Don’t forget to also visit other troubleshooting guides for the S7 and S7 Edge.

Galaxy S7 losing network and LTE connectivity
SMS on Galaxy S7 is converted to MMS
Galaxy S7 not syncing stock Calendar and Microsoft Exchange accounts properly
Google apps on Galaxy S7 not working properly
Galaxy S7 screen flickers on and off randomly when not in use
Galaxy S7 cannot send MMS

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Galaxy S7 losing network and LTE connectivity

Dear DroidGuy. I recently purchased a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. I am already having issues with the network connectivity and the LTE signal. I really hope you can help me.

The problem is as follows:

When i unlock my phone the H+ is displayed on the top right corner but it seems that the internet is not working. After a couple of seconds the H+ becomes H and then the phone completely loses connectivity to the network and also does not allow me to make calls or send text messages. This keeps happening throughout the day.

Firstly, i contacted my carrier and also talked with other people that are on the same carrier. It would seem that the problem does not liye with the carrier.

I then proceeded with solutions found on the internet. One solution that seemed to have solved the problem was the wiping of the phone’s cache. This worked for about a day but then again the problem resurfaced making me lose connectivity.

I now cannot make calls, send texts or connect to the internet.

If you need any more information let me know.

Thank you. — Harry

Solution: Hi Harry. If the problem appears to get fixed after wiping the system cache, albeit temporarily, that may suggest that your device’s software may be at fault. We are yet to receive similar reports from other S7 users so we can assume that this may be an isolated case.

Boot in safe mode

First off, try to observe how cellular connectivity works for a few days while the phone is in safe mode. While in this environment, all third party apps will be prevented from running so you will have to do a little sacrifice by not using them during the observation period. Booting in safe mode won’t fix the problem but it will give you an idea if one of your apps is causing this trouble.

Here are the steps on how to restart your S7 to safe mode:

Turn your Galaxy S7 off.
Press and hold the Power button.
Once the ‘Samsung Galaxy S7’ logo appears, release the Power key and immediately press and hold the Volume Down button.
Continue holding the button until the phone finishes rebooting.
Once you see the text “Safe mode” at the bottom left corner of the screen, release the Volume Down button.

Do a full wipe via factory reset

Should nothing change even when on safe mode, the next logical step for you is to reset all settings back to default. You can do this by performing a factory reset. Keep in mind that factory reset will erase everything in your phone’s memory so make sure that you create a backup of your personal data before you proceed. Simply follow these steps:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

Ask for a phone replacement

If the issue remains even after a factory reset, call Samsung or your wireless carrier to ask for replacement.

Problem #2: SMS on Galaxy S7 is converted to MMS

When I send text messages they are often sent as MMS incurring ex-plan charges. This happens seemingly randomly. I am not sending pictures with such text messages. I saw in outer forum that it could be to do with the Emojis – so, whilst I have only used the ones embedded in the messaging system that came with the phone (i.e. I am not using any ‘downloaded’ app, it still happens.

I have gone into the settings for the messenger and changed it (Input Mode) from ‘automatic’ to ‘Unicode’ and it even happens if there are NO Emoji’s … just text. The messages are generally short (< 160 characters) and are sent to one mobile phone recipient (i.e. not an email address). Do you have any suggestions, please? Many thanks. — William

Solution: Hi William. The best thing that you can do on your end is to contact your wireless carrier as your concern has a billing side. For stock Samsung Messaging app, a user will get a popup notification if an SMS will be converted to MMS. If this is not happening on your phone’s messaging app, you may be using a third party messaging app or that the current messaging app provided by your carrier has been modified to skip this warning.

Each wireless carrier has their own criteria when an SMS is converted to MMS so you need to talk to them so you’ll know what to watch out for. T-Mobile, for example, automatically converts into MMS an SMS that exceeds its standard 160-character limit.

Alternatively, you can try any third party messaging app (like Handcent SMS) that will warn you if your message has been converted into MMS.

Problem #3: Galaxy S7 not syncing stock Calendar and Microsoft Exchange accounts properly

Hi. Hope you can help as no one else can.

Here it goes: I have 2 of these phones and both updated to the new software on the same day. Mine works fine, however my wife’s has a problem.

It is with the default Calendar and Microsoft exchange. It will sync the whole calendar only after going into settings, account, exchange and repeatedly hitting sync. It will work for an hour or so and when you open the calendar up all of the info is gone. If I scowl back to let’s say 2012 it will be updating 1 line at a time 1 day at a time, than stop and will have to repeat the steps above again. This is a very important feature to us and we rely on it often every day. Called Google and they said it is a known issue and to use a third party app to sync. Brought the phone to Sprint and they installed the Outlook and Google Mail app and I now have three calendars that won’t sync. Called Samsung, a total of 8 times. They told me to bring the phone to Best Buy for a re-flash. He spent 3 hours on it with no resolve. In between all this I had done a factory reset several times both from the settings menu and also by using the Volume, Menu and Power button to reset the phone. On two occasions Samsung remotely controlled my phone changing settings to no avail.

He installed a program called smart switch and said there you go the calendar is updating; it took an hour to do so. Same thing info is wiped out and have to wait for a reload. I have the calendar to sync 1 month in the past to speed up the process.

The only difference between my phone and my wife’s is I connect to Exchange using outlook.office and she is connected as s.outlook. Still wait for the Microsoft Migration to exchange server. What gets me is that all of this worked fine for a year until the 6.01 update.

By the way the tech that installed the Smart Sync was a second level tech and I had to wait on hold two hours to talk to him. With every reset I always chose a new install and never used any backup files. Thanks. — Vinny

Solution: Hi Vinny. The minor difference between your phone and your wife’s when it comes to connecting to Microsoft Exchange may actually be the deal-breaker. If Samsung representatives can’t figure out where the issues lies exactly, that’s an indication that a configuration or an app glitch may be to blame. Since this issue is not present on your own phone, try to do another round of factory reset on your wife’s phone, then try to configure it like your own by setting up your own. Set it up to connect to Exchange using your own profile (outlook.office) and observe how it works.

Problem #4: Google apps on Galaxy S7 not working properly

Syncing issues with Google Play Music, Google Contacts, Gmail, Google Play Books, Google Play Music. Worse still, absolutely everything is greyed out when attempting to access my music in Google Play Music. This is all a nuisance when streaming over Wi-Fi. Then I remembered from my old Samsung Galaxy S1 that you had to access your Google Account Sign in from the phone’s browser (a form of security check to make sure the device associated with the account was genuine). It worked!!! I am able to stream music over a mobile network. So this is half the problem solved. On returning indoors to a Wi-Fi environment, everything is again greyed out with the K-itchen Sync thrown in my face. I hope this helps you guys solve the underlying prob. All the best and keep up the good work! — Chris

Solution: Hi Chris. Make sure you wipe the system cache first to see if the problem is due to a corrupted or outdated cache. Once you’ve done that, you then need to delete the cache and data of Google Services Framework app. Here’s how:

Go to phone Settings.
Tap Device tab.
Look for Applications and tap it.
Once you’re inside Applications menu, look for Applications Manager and tap it.
Inside Applications Manager, tap All apps.
Look for Google Services Framework app and tap it.
From there, you should see a page that list app-specific information and options. Tap Storage.
Tap Clear Cache and Clear Data buttons.

Problem #5: Galaxy S7 screen flickers on and off randomly when not in use

Hey there. So i had a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge but dropped it and the screen smashed. I had an insurance replacement (which was a refurbished handset) and backed up my broken screen Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge (on the same software as this new one) and loaded it to the new phone. Before i even put the sim in the new phone and in the initial set up – the screen was flickering randomly. It would be fine (untouched on a table) then suddenly flicker without any interaction.

I sent it to Samsung to have them fix it and they have sent it back but the same issue persists. Untouched – the screen will randomly and intermittently flicker between on and off. The only time this doesn’t happen is when it is plugged into a charger. Soft/hard resets do not fix it and the old s7 edge plus with the cracked screen and same software version never had such issues. Have you any ideas or tips? Thanks in advance! — David

Solution: Hi David. It’s our first time to encounter an issue like this on a new S7 and we have no idea what’s happening. A full screen assembly diagnostics will be needed to see if a bad hardware somewhere is the cause. If this issue has already been submitted to Samsung without any positive answer, chances are they also don’t know where the problem lies. We suggest that you have the phone replaced instead.

Problem #6: Galaxy S7 cannot send MMS

Hello. I bought a brand new Galaxy S7 about a month ago and paid full-price for it. I LOVED it and everything worked great at first. Now, I cannot send MMS messages. It began sending them sporadically then just stopped sending at all. It is an AT&T phone but I am using Straight Talk. My OnePlus One sends MMS without issues. Is the problem on Straight Talk’s end? AT&T? Samsung?

I have tried everything from factory reset to getting a new SIM card to trying every APN setting I can find. Nothing works! Please help. This is a lot of wasted $ so far and I am so aggravated with it! — Michelle

Solution: Hi Michelle. If you are currently using a Straight Talk SIM, you need to make sure first that there’s no account- or billing-related issue that prevents your device from sending out MMS. Contact your wireless carrier and ask for direct assistance regarding the matter.

To see if your account can send MMS or not, insert the SIM card to another phone. If MMS works fine on another phone, the problem may have something to do with your S7’s APN settings. Make sure that you contact your wireless carrier for the correct information so you can manually change the current APN settings.

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Fix Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge that can’t send / receive picture messages [Troubleshooting Guide]

Picture messages are already considered as #MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service), which requires mobile data to be transmitted successfully. We have received quite a lot of complaints from our readers who own the #Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge (#S7Edge) complaining about not being able to send and/or receive MMS.

I included a couple of MMS-related issues in this post so if you own this device or any Android phone for that matter and are currently bugged by a problem or two about picture messaging, then continue reading this post as it may just become a helpful resource for you. You’d be able to learn how to troubleshoot your phone that has any of the issues I cited here.

For our readers who have other issues, make sure you visit our S7 Edge troubleshooting page. We already answered hundreds of problems reported by our readers online and we’ve provided solutions and/or troubleshooting guides that may become helpful for you. Just find problems that are similar with yours and use the solutions we suggested. If they don’t work for you or if you need more help, then feel free to contact us using our Android issues questionnaire.

Galaxy S7 Edge can no longer send / receive MMS after an update

Problem: I need your help guys because my Galaxy S7 Edge can no longer receive and send picture messages. There was an update that I downloaded recently and then this problem started. Prior to this, I can just type the text and then attach a picture but now it will say the message is not sent. So, how can I fix this problem?

Troubleshooting: As I said at the beginning of this post, MMS requires mobile data to be transmitted, without it or if it’s disabled, you won’t be able to attach pictures to your text messages. It is easier to troubleshoot this problem if you’re interested and to give you a quick overview on the course of the troubleshooting, here’s what you need to do:

Make sure mobile data is enabled in your phone.
If mobile data is enabled, verify your phone uses the correct APN (Access Point Name).
Verify your account is in good standing by calling your service provider.
Reset your phone if all else fails and then setup APN again.

Basically, when it comes to troubleshooting MMS related issues, it revolves around those four steps above. But here’s why you need to do them…

Mobile data has to be enabled. It’s required so that your phone can connect to your provider’s cellular network and be able to gain access to services it has to offer. Go to Settings or toggle the quick settings menu and then enable data. After you’ve done that, try to send an MMS to your own number to see if you can successfully send and receive it. If it goes through, then the outgoing APN (Access Point Name) is good. However, if you can’t receive it then it must be just the incoming settings that have to be checked. But basically, you need to double check the APN especially if you can neither send nor receive MMS even if mobile data is enabled.

Verify the phone bears the correct APN Settings. It’s a set of letters and numbers used by your provided so that your phone can authenticate its attempt to connect to your provider’s cellular network. It’s composed of outgoing and incoming settings and you need to verify them with your provider to find out if your phone is using the correct settings. You may google the APN or call tech support.

Verify if your account is still in good standing. If you don’t know what the correct APN is, you have to call tech support to verify it and while talking with the rep, inquire about the status of your account to see if it’s still in good standing and that it’s not barred from using the service. It might be an account related issue especially that there are providers that have data cap wherein the connection is throttled once you’re consumed the data allowance.

Reset your phone and set it all up if the problem persists. If the problem still persists after verifying mobile data is enabled, APN Settings are correct and your account is in good standing, then you need to do the master reset and set the device up to bear all the default settings. Here’s how you reset your phone:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key. NOTE: It doesn’t matter how long you press and hold the Home and Volume Up keys, it won’t affect the phone but by the time you press and hold the Power key, that’s when the phone starts to respond.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds. NOTE: The “Installing system update” message may show on the screen for several seconds before displaying the Android system recovery menu. This is just the first phase of the entire process.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

I hope this helps.

Galaxy S7 Edge can’t send text with images and documents

Problem: This is my second phone (Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge) same kind and I can’t send texts with images and documents. It keeps telling me the network service is not available. People can’t send them to me either.
Solution: Hi! This is one of the common issue for Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge devices. This only happen if the coverage of the area is slow, it might be of your location, and the number of service provider towers available in the area. Due to lack of reception sending or receiving message will be difficult or sometimes the images are distorted.
There are other reasons as well that trigger this problem, it’s not always poor coverage to blame but there are device settings that are not properly set. We will recommend some methods to help you fix the problem. Below are the steps how.
Step 1: Check if the Device is on Roaming
First thing that we will do is to check if your device is not set to roaming. This setting is only used if the owner is on travel outside the country. It will disable the mobile networks and data service if use inside the country, you must disable it. Here’s the easy way to do it.

Access ‘Setting menu’ through notification panel (slide down)
Select the gear looking icon or ‘Settings icon’ on the top-right corner of the screen
Navigate to ‘Mobile Networks’ and tap it
When the ‘Data roaming’ is turned on, you must disable by tapping on or off switch
Press the ‘Home key’ to go back to the main screen

When you are on the main screen, see there are changes on the device and try sending a message or make a call. If this is not working or did not resolve the issue, then proceed to the next method.
Step 2: Check if the Airplane mode is on
Now, this setting is similar to roaming but this is only used when traveling by a plane. It will disable calling and messaging functions and also turn off the mobile data. To check if it off, follow the steps below.

Assuming you are on the main screen
Tap the ‘Apps menu’
Select ‘Settings’ icon and tap it
Select the ‘Flight mode’ and tap it
If ‘Flight mode’ is switch on, tap the switch icon to turn it off.

After following the steps above and still not working, try the next method.
Step 3: Select Network Operators
This method will let you choose either manual or automatic search of networks. Below are the steps how.

Go to Settings
Select ‘Wireless and netwoks’
Tap ‘Mobile networks’
Next, there are two option ‘Manual’ and ‘Automatic’, select ‘Automatic’

This is one of the simple way to resolve the problem, it will begin the process of searching available networks in the area. Still, if the problem is not fix, continue the next method.
Step 4: Factory reset the Device
Sometimes, this is the last resort to resolve complicated problem. Be advised that doing a factory reset will delete all the data stored in the device including the contacts, message, photos, application and more. So before doing it, backup all the important data first and restore them after.
If none of the methods mentioned above are working, we highly recommend bringing your device to the nearest Samsung service center or call your network provider if they can fix the coverage in your area.

RELEVANT POST: How to get rid of Samsung Galaxy S7 “Unfortunately, Messages has stopped” error and other issues

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Solutions to delays in sending Galaxy S7 SMS or text messages, other issues

Looking for #GalaxyS7 solutions? This post may help you. Below are some of the issues we’ve receive from our Galaxy S7 users for the past several days. We hope that the solutions we provide here can help our Android community.

Galaxy S7 default Messages app randomly converts texts into MMS
How to lock the Galaxy S7 screen everytime the device is locked? | Gmail and Hotmail emails all go to one inbox in Galaxy S7
How to unmute a previously blocked contact in Galaxy S7
Solutions to delays in sending Galaxy S7 SMS or text messages

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Galaxy S7 default Messages app randomly converts texts into MMS

Ref: Default Messages app

At random times, my text messages are turned into MMS messages with a picture attachment. The instances of this is random. The pictures are random from my album. It doesn’t matter if I am sending to a group or an individual. However, the receiver doesn’t seem to receive the picture, just the text message, so far as I can tell. When it first happened, I was also receiving random pictures from 2 individuals in my group message where it was first noticed but the pictures were from my previously received messages from them to me and/or picture I have sent to them. One person has the iphone SE and the other has Samsung S7, same exact phone as mine.

I have cleared cache from Messages and any other messaging app I have installed and also wiped cache partition. It acted normally for couple of days but resumed random picture attachment…

Yesterday, my phone was not responsive/slow to respond from AOD screen and resumed normal operations when I wiped the cache partition couple of times. I haven’t performed a factory reset yet. I have tried to search forums for someone else maybe having the same problem, but I couldn’t find any…Please help! — MJ

Solution: Hi MJ. This is our first time to hear such a problem ourselves so it may be an isolated case. It’s good to hear that you’ve initiated wiping the cache partition as that appears to fix the issue temporarily. This means that either there’s a firmware glitch that develop after some time, leading to the issue, or that a third party app is causing a conflict with the operating system.

The first thing that we’d want you to do in this case is to boot your phone in safe mode for as long as necessary so you can observe the phone. While in safe mode, no third party apps will run so if the issue won’t occur, that suggests that you’ve installed a problematic app along the way. To restart your S7 in safe mode, follow these steps:

Press and hold the Power key.
As soon as you can see the ‘Samsung Galaxy S7 EDGE’ on the screen, release the Power key and immediately hold the Volume Down key.
Continue holding the Volume Down button until the device finishes rebooting.
You may release it when you can see ‘Safe mode’ in the bottom left corner of the screen.

Try to leave the phone in safe mode state for at least a day so you have enough time to replicate the problem.

Another good thing to do is to uninstall third party apps you’re not using. Not only do they clutter your device’s memory but one of them is probably the reason for the issue.

If nothing appears to change while in safe mode and after uninstalling apps, consider doing a factory reset as the last resort. Doing so will address a potential problem that may be caused by a bad firmware. Restoring all software settings to default usually fixes a lot of ills.

Problem #2: How to lock the Galaxy S7 screen everytime the device is locked? | Gmail and Hotmail emails all go to one inbox in Galaxy S7

Screen lock password. Is there any way i can change this option to ask for my password everytime i lock my phone? Currently, right now, my phone will only ask for my password if i lock my phone for over 1 minute. But if i lock my phone for only 20-30sec and need to use it again, it doesn’t ask for my password and you can just access my phone right away. is there any way i can change this for more security reason? i want my phone to ask for my password everytime i lock the phone whether if its only for 20 sec or for over 1 minute.

How do i separate my Gmail emails from my Hotmail emails? Currently on my phone, i have set up both my gmail and hotmail account on here but my gmail account email always show the emails from my Hotmail account. how do i stop this? i want the Gmail account to only show emails from that account and the hotmail to only show emails from the hotmail account. i would get a notification for my gmail account that i have 4 new mails, when i click on it, it’s message from my hotmail account instead. how do i stop this? Thanks. — Kevin

Solution: Hi Kevin. We’ve decide to fuse your two issues into one in this post so we can address them together.

The answer to your first question is yes, there’s a way to do what you want. In order to force the phone to ask for your screen password right after locking the screen, go under Settings>Lock screen and security>Secure lock settings. Once you’re in this section, be sure to select “Immediately”. Alternatively, you can also enable the “Lock instantly with power key” option under Secure Lock options section to manually lock the screen using the power button.

Are you using the default email app? If no, then we try to look for options under settings of that email client to un-combine your email inboxes. The options may vary from client to client so try to find to find a way to do that.

If you’re using the stock or default email app, you’ll notice that each account is usually separated from another, though there’s still a “Combined inbox” that stores all incoming emails from multiple accounts like the ones in the image below

. We don’t think you’re using the default email app though so kindly provide us more information about the issue so we can assist you further. We need to know what exact email client/app you’re using.

As a workaround, you can also use separate app for each email account as Gmail and Hotmail have their own independent app.

Problem #3: How to unmute a previously blocked contact in Galaxy S7

In the stock text messaging app, I blocked a specific contact. The next day, I unblocked them. While their messages do go to my inbox, I don’t receive any notifications for their texts. No sound, no icon in the top of the screen or the drop down menu. All other texts from others come through fine. I’ve checked. The contact isn’t blocked. The contact is set to have sound for all calls and texts. In the messaging app there is a “mute” symbol next to their name on the message screen.

I receive phone calls from this contact normally. I’m at a loss. I’ve tried blocking, restart, unblocking, restart. I’ve tried soft reset. Nothing has worked. — Dorothy

Solution: Hi Dorothy. There’s a simple solution to this problem. Simply follow the steps below:

Open the Messages app.
Tap on the conversation thread of the muted contact.
Tap on the phone number on the top left.
Tap enable notifications.

Problem #4: Solutions to delays in sending Galaxy S7 SMS or text messages

I have the Galaxy S7. The phone itself is maybe a few months old. I had to buy a new one because the other one lagged any time that I used it. So the phone is new. I just recently, like within the past week, noticed that I am not receiving SOME texts and sometimes people don’t ever receive the texts I send them. I’ll be texting someone and then they will send a text asking why I didn’t respond or answer their question and I’ll have no clue what they’re talking about. And I’ll be waiting hours for a reply from someone when it turns out they never got my text even though my side says that it sent. OR they will receive it hours later. For example, I sent my mother a text at 9pm one night and asked her what she was doing in the morning, and she didn’t receive it until early morning. It didn’t happen SO much at first, but now it’s happening very frequently. I’ve even tried to clear up storage space in general and delete old texts.. To sum this all up, I’m not receiving random texts and mine are not showing up on others phones sometimes, either. Thank you in advance. — Pamela

Solution: Hi Pamela. Text messaging issues like what you’re experiencing are mostly due to a transmission error on the side of your carrier but we still recommend that you try to troubleshoot your phone first to eliminate possible issues with it.

Wipe the cache partition

The first thing that you want is to ensure that the phone’s system cache is refreshed. Simply follow the steps below on how to clear the cache partition:

Turn off the phone.
Once the phone has completely shut down, press and hold Volume, Home, and Power buttons at the same time.
Wait until the Samsung logo appears before releasing the Power button.
Once the Android logo shows up, release the two other buttons.
Wait for the Recovery menu to appear (may take up to a minute).
Go to wipe cache partition option using the Volume buttons, then press Power button to confirm.
Wait for the device to wipe the cache partition
Once the cache has been deleted, Reboot system now option will then be highlighted.
Press Power button again to confirm the reboot.

Wiping the cache partition forces the phone to delete the system cache and replace it with a new one over the course of time as you use the device. Sometimes, a corrupted or outdated cache can lead to app problems so it’s always good practice to keep it clean and fresh. You will have to observe the phone again for some time to see if wiping the cache partition has any positive effect.

Uninstall apps or boot the phone in safe mode

If the issue remains, the next thing you want to do is uninstall apps you’re not using. While this may not really be an accurate fix, it minimizes the chance of apps causing conflicts with the operating system which may be causing the messaging app to act up. If you don’t want to uninstall apps, simply boot your phone in safe mode for several days to observe how SMS works.

Restore settings to default via factory reset

As a final troubleshooting step that you can do on your end, consider wiping the phone by doing a factory reset. This will ensure that firmware bugs that may have developed overtime is addressed. Keep in mind that if the issue caused by an app, the problem may occur again after a factory reset. We recommend that you observe the phone for at least a day after a factory reset without installing anything. The messages app is pre-installed so you should be able to continue sending and receiving text messages even without the rest of your third party apps. Here are the steps on how to perform a factory reset:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

Important: Performing a factory reset will erase everything on the phone’s internal storage device. Make sure that you create a copy of your personal data like photos, videos, contacts, etc., before you do it.

Contact your wireless carrier

If SMS continues to be erratic after a factory reset and without any apps, that’s an indicator that the problem is network related. Although we’ve become accustomed to thinking that SMS technology is reliable, it’s always not the case. The operators or carriers still operate SMS in best-effort support only, meaning they don’t guarantee that all text messages are transmitted properly every time. There may be some outages in your area that you’re not aware of, or the network may have some server problems affecting SMS service. Contacting your wireless carrier is a logical final step towards resolution in this case.

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Galaxy S7 keeps showing “Unsupported SD Card” error, other issues

Hello Android community! Welcome to yet another post that addresses issues about the #GalaxyS7 series. We cover 6 issues that we receive from some of our readers. We hope that this is helpful.

Here are the specific topics in post today:

Galaxy S7 keeps showing “Unsupported SD Card” error
Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge dual-SIM model from T-Mobile won’t allow second SIM to access network when T-Mobile SIM is inserted
Galaxy S7 poor battery performance
Galaxy S7 takes a long time to send and receive photos via stock messaging app
Galaxy S7 Edge won’t perform a factory reset
Galaxy S7 Edge encryption not working properly

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Galaxy S7 keeps showing “Unsupported SD Card” error

My device has been showing an “Unsupported SD Card” message in my notifications for about a month. My device was running flawless up until this occurred. Quickly, I am not sure about the android version I am running. The device is an Android Galaxy S7 and I had it pre-ordered. Maybe that information will keep us both on the right track if you guys send the troubleshooting information back to me.

Basically, device is running fine. I started receiving these messages in the notifications drop down. When I tap on the message I was hoping it would take me to a setting that could possibly be set incorrectly, or maybe an advanced setting that I could just troubleshoot myself. Unfortunately, tapping on the message does nothing.

I have tried the following:

Restart Power off/back on after 10 sec.
Removing the SD card with the device powered down, reinserting and powered up.
Plugging into a PC to see if SD card is visible (which since this message started showing, it is not).

The last couple of weeks, the message does not appear any longer, yet I still do not have a mounted SD card. Before I use useless apps to check my SD card, I was hoping to get some feedback from you guys. If you could please respond, possibly send me some type of sequence of troubleshooting I could try before having to take it to the T-Mobile store (which from my experience is a waste of time). Please let me know. Regards. — Mike

Solution: Hi Mike. You don’t need to go to your carrier’s store for this one. If a computer can’t detect the SD card card either, that’s an obvious indicator that said SD card has stopped working. We won’t enumerate why an SD card can stop working all of a sudden as that’s another topic. The important thing is that you’ve already established the fact that the SD card has become unreadable for some reason. If you want to check further, insert it to another phone and see if you’ll get the same result. If your next question is, “can there be anything that you can do to make it work again?” the answer is NO. Accept the fact that everything you stored in that card is gone. You simply have to move on by getting a new SD card.

Now, if another phone or computer will still be able to miraculously read the SD card, make sure that you do the following (in this order):

Create a backup of your files.
Reformat the SD card using that computer or phone.
Re-insert the newly reformatted SD card to your Galaxy S7 and reformat it again.

Problem #2: Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge dual-SIM model from T-Mobile won’t allow second SIM to access network when T-Mobile SIM is inserted

Hello Droid Guy. I am new to the world of Droid as I have just switched from Apple. I have purchased a Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge dual SIM. I did this because I live in West Africa. I am an American working here and I have a T-Mobile account in the US that allows me to use that phone here in Ghana. I also, for work purposes, need a local phone and number. So instead of owning two phones, why not have one phone and two SIMs. The issue is that my T-Mobile SIM for some reason causes my local Ghanian SIM to not be able to hold a network signal. I tried resetting network setting and even did a hard reset and it still did not work. When I took out the T-mobile SIM and just ran two SIMs from Ghanian services, the phone works fine. I would like to be able to use my T-Mobile SIM as well as a local carrier SIM if possible. Any help will be appreciated. — Casey

Solution: Hi Casey. We’re not sure if the problem is a T-Mobile firmware restriction or not so the best party that can help you with this one is T-Mobile itself. We are not aware of any Samsung-related restriction that prevents another SIM from working when inserted to the second SIM slot. T-Mobile’s Android version may be programmed to forcefully lock the phone to their network whenever their SIM card is inserted. Please contact T-Mobile and ask direct assistance from them.

Problem #3: Galaxy S7 poor battery performance

I need your Samsung expertise please. I just bought a brand new Galaxy S7 and I feel the battery life is well below what it should be. I’ve done all the usual tips like disabling app refresh, syncing, brightness, etc., and even had the power saver on all the time. doing no streaming and barely using it yet when i take it off full charge but it’s already sitting at 10hrs remaining. Surely, for the brand new Galaxy S7 it should be better than that.

The main reason I upgraded was battery life but it isn’t even performing better than my iPhone 5. Could I have a faulty battery or is there something I should do? I’m very conservative at the moment with apps and brightness etc and its still average. I just want to be able to use it throughout the day with an average person’s usage and expect to come home with enough battery. After 3 days the battery is going down at an average of 10-15% per hour. — Shaunmcsweeney

Solution: Hi Shaunmcsweeney. Compared to its immediate predecessor, the Galaxy S6, the newer Galaxy S7 has a bigger battery capacity at 3000mAh. It is thus expected to have better battery performance than the other phones in this series. We can also attest that this is also our observation with our own Galaxy S7. Our Galaxy S7 can last for over 14 hours a day on average and that’s after normal to heavy usage. We are conservative when it comes to screen brightness though and we always make it a habit of turning off all sync features of apps and phone so that may have helped. Still, we don’t know how long you expect your phone’s battery to last in a day but if you’ve already tried all the tips and tricks in minimizing battery consumption, then there’s nothing more that we can do to help you. Call Samsung and have them replace the phone.

Problem #4: Galaxy S7 takes a long time to send and receive photos via stock messaging app

If I take picture with the camera I can’t always send the pictures out. I have the camera setting on the lowest resolution possible and it still takes forever to send one picture let alone 3. My S4 sends faster. Pictures come thru most of the time but some come thru with only half a picture and nothing else. Others come thru with the picture and 3/4 see thru green color and some look like a puzzle. I exchanged the phone and it worked good for the first few days and then with a new update this morning the issues have returned.

I’m now using an App called WhatsApp and when I send pictures that way they are gone within a few seconds and clear as a bell. Why doesn’t the Samsung Message app do the same thing? I might add I have a 3G Micro tower in the house and internet is full bars so shouldn’t the pictures be going thru the 3G cell tower hooked to the internet? — James

Solution: Hi James. The cause of the problem can be one of the following things:

bad stock Messaging app,
a firmware glitch (introduced after an update)
slow internet connection

To check if the issue is isolated to the Samsung Messaging app only, make sure that you wipe its cache and data. To do that, follow these steps:

Open the Settings menu.
Tap Apps (some versions may show Applications or Application Manager).
Tap the Messaging app.
Tap Storage.
Tap Clear Cache, then Clear Data (in this order).

If the problem remains after you’ve cleared the cache and data of the app in question, the next troubleshooting is to refresh the system cache. Here’s how:

Turn off the device.
Press and hold the following three buttons at the same time: Volume Up key, Home key, and Power key.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power key but continue to press and hold the Volume Up key and the Home key.
When the Android System Recovery screen appears, release the Volume Up and Home keys.
Press the Volume Down key to highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
Press the Power key to select.
When the wipe cache partition is complete, ‘Reboot system now’ is highlighted.
Press the Power key to restart the device.

Refreshing the cache will force the phone to delete the possibly corrupted or outdated one and create a new one. If this won’t help either, the next best thing that you can do is factory reset. Here’s how:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, highlight the option, ‘wipe data/factory reset’ and press the Power key to select it.
Press the Volume Down button again until the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted and then press the Power key to select it.
After the reset is complete, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and hit the Power key to restart the phone.

Problem #5: Galaxy S7 Edge won’t perform a factory reset

Hi There. My S7 Edge was having problems with frequent lockups, garbled screen and spontaneous resets. Now I wiped the cache and ordered it to go to factory settings. When rebooting, it now says in a nice blue screen it is updating/installing the new firmware and after a while ‘erasing’. Then a falling Droid with exclamation is seen. it collapses into Recovery mode with an error after formatting: Formatting /data E: Format_volume: make ext4 failed on /dev/block/platform/155a0000.ufs/by-name/USERDATA with 1 (I/O error) — Set factory reset done… — Copying Media files… — Preload checkin… Datawipe failed. E: Data wipe failed — Applying Multi-CSC… Applied the CSC-code : PHN Succesfully applied Multi-CSC — Set factory reset done — copying media files — preload checkin… and that’s it. It won’t boot anymore and everytime I reset the same thing happens. Any suggestions? — Eric

Solution: Hi Eric. A normally working Galaxy device should be able to execute the complete factory reset sequence. That your phone is doing otherwise is an obvious indication that something’s wrong with its software. You must call Samsung and secure a replacement unit.

Problem #6: Galaxy S7 Edge encryption not working properly

I have a Galaxy S7 Edge and I have got a 128G SD card. The SD card was encrypted since I installed it the first time. When the new software was released, I went ahead and installed it. I turned off my phone couple of days later and turned it back on and chose to encrypt the SD card from the pop up screen. It’s been encrypting for the past week now! Knowing that, I turned the phone off again to decrypt the SD card but that didn’t work as it took a lot of time with no result at all. Now, it’s still encrypting and it seems like I lost my files and can’t access them on any computer since they were encrypted. I would really appreciate your help in this one. — Hsamus

Solution: Hi Hsamus. Encryption is a good way to secure important files but one of its downsides is the fact that no other device will be able to read the encrypted device afterwards. This means that even if you’ll stop the device at this time and try to recover your files by inserting the SD card in a computer, you’ll still be unable to access the contents. Even if the SD card is still working, no other device will be able to decrypt it.

The best thing that you can do right now is to wait until the device finish the encryption process (though 1 week is way too long). The most likely scenario now is that the SD card has been corrupted and the encryption process is either going in a loop or may have already stopped although your S7 does not indicate so. Give the device a few more days to try and do its job. If nothing changes after that, accept the fact that the SD card has stopped working and your files gone. There’s no way you’ll be able to recover your files back even if you insert the SIM card on another Galaxy S7 because of the way encryption in Samsung devices work. The actual decryption key is device-specific and cannot be transferred to another one. Even using the same password on the same exact phone model won’t work.

You’ll can continue using the same SD card in another device or the same phone by erasing everything off it via the format option.

Also, since you noticed that the issue started after an update, you might want to consider doing a factory reset to start fresh. This will help minimize bugs from emerging and possibly help in deleting existing ones.

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Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus can’t attach pictures to text messages plus other texting problems

Hey guys. I addressed 7 texting related problems that any Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ (#Samsung #GalaxyS6EdgePlus) owner may encounter. Texting is not limited to SMS so I also answered questions regarding MMS, attachments, keyboard issues, signature, etc.

If you contacted us, try to browse through the problems I cited below, yours may have been included. But in case you found this page because you were searching for a solution to your problem, then visit our Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+ Troubleshooting page as we list down all issues we already addressed. Find problems related to yours and try the solutions we provided. If they won’t work, then contact us by filling up this form.

Here are the problems I addressed in this post…

Galaxy S6 Edge+ can’t attach pictures to text

Problem: Cannot add an attachment to a text. I can only send the attachment by itself. When you hit the paperclip and self the picture, the word ATTACH on the left is in black and it does nothing, but the word Send is in red and is the only option that works and it immediately send the picture by itself.

I found a work around and that is to create a brand new text, add the attachment – then the text and THEN add the contact and the pic will send with the text. I get a new phone at least once a year and had the Note Edge prior to this S6 Edge Plus and never had this issue. Is this purely a 5.1.1 issue only as it work phone with 5.0.1 on my Note Edge.

Troubleshooting: I’m glad you found a workaround to this problem. This is not a common problem but there were owners who also have the same complains as yours. So, I think it’s an issue with the firmware itself or just the app. But the question is, did this problem occur just recently or is it already like this since day 1? If your phone already had this problem out of the box, then it’s the firmware and no other procedure can fix this except, maybe, an update.

However, if the problem started recently or if you noticed it started a few months after you got the phone, then it probably just an issue with the messaging app. I suggest you clear the cache and data of the app to see if that would make a difference.

From any Home screen, tap Apps.
Tap Settings.
Scroll to ‘APPLICATIONS,’ then tap Application manager.
Swipe right to the ALL screen.
Scroll to and tap Messages.
Tap Clear cache.
Tap Clear data, then OK.

If the problem persists after following the instructions above, then reset the phone but don’t forget to backup your data first.

Related Problem: I seem to be unable to send a text message that includes both my text and a picture from my gallery together. I take the same steps I always have but it just sends the pictures without my text info. I end up having to send two separate text…one with the pic and then the text follow up.

User can’t hit the number 6 on Galaxy S6 Edge+

Problem: I cannot hit the number six, it brings up 5 or 7 every time and sometimes both. Also just below six is y… y sometimes brings up u or t with it. Every other key on keyboard is good. Is there a keyboard calibration or reset i can do? Cheers.

Troubleshooting: You don’t need keyboard calibration to know if it’s a keyboard problem or a touchscreen issue. Try hitting the number 6 or Y in both portrait and landscape mode. If they function well in a different orientation, it’s most likely a touchscreen issue. The next thing to do to further troubleshoot the problem is to hit the characters that are in the same area as the 6 or Y. If they, too, won’t function, then you need to see a technician about it for further assessment.

However, if both the number 6 and letter Y aren’t keyed in in both orientations, then there’s a possibility it’s just a keyboard issue or a firmware problem. Try to clear the cache and data of the keyboard you’re using. If the problem won’t work, then you need to perform the master reset.

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, highlight the option, ‘wipe data/factory reset’ and press the Power key to select it.
Press the Vol Down button again until the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted and then press the Power key to select it.
After the reset is complete, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and hit the Power key to restart the phone.

Galaxy S6 Edge+ has no signature option

Problem: I just bought this phone and it has absolutely no signature for text messages on it. I love having a signature on my phone and this S6 edge doesn’t have one.

Answer: Other models of Galaxy S6 Edge Plus have the signature option in message settings but it seems like your unit is among ones that don’t have it. There’s not much you can do about it as signatures are actually proprietary addition and your service provider may have taken it out on purpose.

Can’t download attachments sent via MMS

Problem: When I receive text messages I am unable to download and open any attachments. I cannot attach any files either.

Troubleshooting: Text messages with attached pictures or simply known as MMS can only be transmitted via mobile network. If you can’t send, receive or download attachments, then these are the things you need to do:

Make sure mobile data is enabled in your phone.
If mobile data is enabled but you still can’t send or receive MMS, then check the APN Settings in your phone. In case you don’t know the correct APN, call your provider and ask for the correct one.
Make sure attachments don’t go beyond the size limit set by your provider. You may call your carrier and ask for the size allowed to be transmitted via text.

Text messages weren’t delivered using Galaxy S6 Edge+

Problem: I have a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+. I upgraded from a Note 2. I send out words of inspiration. I have been doing this for 5 years and about 3 weeks ago my messages were still not getting delivered. So I thought something was wrong with the phone, so I upgraded. Same problem. Went to the Sprint store every day last week, they told me the system looks at them as spam because I send so many (I send 150 per morning) so then it shuts my texting off for about 12 hours. Tech support told me I need to get another app. I have tried all of them and still get the same thing. Do you think I need to get another phone would that help.

Troubleshooting: There’s not much you can do about the problem on your end because as what you said, your provider tagged those messages as “spammy.” What you can do is talk with your provider or send your messages by batches just so you couldn’t reach the limit.

Galaxy S6 Edge Plus doesn’t show accented characters

Problem: We recently moved to USA from Belgium. We bought new phones from T-Mobile. We use accents with some characters. Mine works fine and shows everything. But the other phone does not. This occurred after the android pay updated. Do you have any ideas or clues as to why or how to fix it? T-Mobile has no clue. Screenshots available if you need. Thank you.

Solution: Just change the keyboard’s language to use Belgian.

From the Home screen, tap the Apps icon.
Find and tap Settings.
Scroll to and tap Language and input.
Tap Samsung keyboard.
Touch Select Input Language.
Tap the status switch beside the language you want to use to turn in on.
When composing a text, just swipe right or left on the Space Bar to toggle between languages.

That’s all.

Google account of previous owner needed on Galaxy S6 Edge+

Problem: Phone was recently bought off of Craigslist and now it is saying I need Google account information of previous owner. The phone was factory reset before I bought it.

Troubleshooting: The phone may have been setup after the reset. If his or her account is needed to gain access to the phone, then you need to reset it again. Just follow the instructions above on how to perform a master reset. Once finished, setup the phone using your Google account. And that’s all you need to do to make your phone your own.

Connect with us

We are always open to your problems, questions and suggestions, so feel free to contact us by filling up this form. We support every Android device available and we are serious in what we do. This is a free service we offer and we won’t charge you a penny for it. But please note that we receive hundreds of emails every day and it’s impossible for us to respond to every single one of them. But rest assured we read every message we receive. For those whom we’ve helped, please spread the word by sharing our posts to your friends or by simply liking our Facebook and Google+ page or follow us on Twitter.

Galaxy S6 cannot send text message after updating to Marshmallow, other issues

As promised in previous #GalaxyS6 posts, here are more issues that some of our community members are experiencing. Feel free to visit other Galaxy S6 troubleshooting posts in this index page.

Verizon Galaxy S6 won’t send or receive MMS on AT&T network
Galaxy S6 cannot send text message after updating to Marshmallow
Galaxy S6 stuck on loading screen during an update
How to improve battery life on Galaxy S6 Edge Plus
Galaxy S6 display won’t turn back on after charging port was replaced
Galaxy S6 Home button stopped working

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Verizon Galaxy S6 won’t send or receive MMS on AT&T network

I bought this Verizon “Factory Unlocked” Samsung S6, brought it to AT&T for them to set up the APN information, and everything works except sending and receiving pictures through text, well multimedia text. AT&T stated I shouldn’t be having problems of. It was factory unlocked but kinda blew me off. I asked if all factory unlocked phones were unable to send multimedia text, I was told yes they can but they guess mine can’t was the answer I received.

I pray y’all can help me I hoping I wasn’t ripped off. The seller is refusing the return as of now because I brought it to AT&T (he called it a third party) to activate it.

Thanks for everything y’all do it helps so much. — Kayla

Solution: Hi Kayla. There are a number of reasons why MMS won’t work on a device ranging from incorrect phone settings, bad messaging app, or account- or network-related problem. Your first task is to find out what is causing the issue by doing some basic troubleshooting. Below are the things that you can do:

Ensure that your messaging app inbox has enough storage space left. Messaging apps have a limited number of messages that they can store. If your phone has reached the limit at this time, it won’t be able to send and receive text messages or MMS.

Try to delete as many messages as you can then try to send an MMS to your number.

Check the network connection. Most phones are configured to automatically detect and connect to a network. They are also set to optimize the connection “session” but this process does not usually go as planned every time. You need to manually select a network under Settings to see if the phone is simply not “optimizing” the current connection.

To do this on a Galaxy S6, simply follow these steps:

From the Home screen, tap the Apps icon.
Tap Settings.
Scroll to Connections, then tap Mobile networks.
Tap Network operators.
Tap Search now.
When presented with a list of available networks, try to select one that is NOT your carrier and wait for the error message.
Once you’ve selected another network, your phone is no longer connected to your carrier and is fully logged off from it.
Try to connect to your carrier’s network again.

Make sure that you have the correct AT&T MMS configuration setup. We know that AT&T representatives have already setup the APN on your phone but there’s still a chance that they may have missed something. Kindly revisit the phone’s APN settings and see if they correspond with the table below.

Name: NXTGENPHONE

APN: NXTGENPHONE

Proxy: Not set Proxy

Port: Not set Port

Username: Not set

Password: Not set

Server: Not set

MMSC: https://mmsc.mobile.att.net

MMS proxy: proxy.mobile.att.net

MMS port: 80

MCC: 310

MNC: 410

Authentication Type: None

APN type: default, mms, supl, hipri

APN protocol: IPv4

Bearer: Unspecified

Check if you have a compatible SIM card. Older SIM cards or those from other carriers may not automatically allow sending or receiving of MMS on AT&T network. If you purchased a new SIM card from AT&T when you brought your phone to them, you can skip this step.

To check if your current SIM card is compatible, please visit AT&T website.

Ask AT&T if your existing data plan is compatible. If you recycled an old SIM card and put it on your new S6, the current data plan may not allow MMS. AT&T needs to update the current device information on your account to let it to send and receive MMS. If you aren’t sure about this step, make sure that you contact AT&T.

Problem #2: Streaming apps (SoundCloud and Google Play Music) on Galaxy S6 not working properly after Marshmallow update | Galaxy S6 cannot send text message after updating to Marshmallow

Data has been choppy, when using any streaming service like SoundCloud or Google Play Music, the song stops and buffers, but when you open the app and stop and start the song, it fixes immediately. I began to see this problem immediately after installing the Marshmallow update. The song keeps stopping within 30 seconds every time, but if the phone is open on the app, it streams normally. It stops when the phone is locked.
Can’t send text messages, this wasn’t a problem until 5 days after I installed the update. Happened suddenly, sent texts the same morning, tried restarting and powering on and off, text messages are received, but cannot send. Tried using your previous guide of deleting network cache, and app cache, didn’t work. — Vineet

Solution: Hi Vineet. The new Marshmallow update, like its predecessor appears to be causing minor app issues at this time. This can be due to a number of reasons and unfortunately, there’s just no way to pinpoint exactly what might be wrong on a certain situation. A good way to start though, especially if there are multiple issues, is to perform a factory reset. If deleting the cache partition or app cache won’t make any difference, resorting to factory reset might prove effective. This is because many post-update issues are caused by firmware glitches.

Perform a factory reset

Major updates that involve replacing one version with another, like the transition from Lollipop to Marshmallow, are usually messy as old system files are not usually replaced correctly, permissions not set properly, among other things. Ensuring that your phone runs a clean firmware after a major update can be done by doing a factory reset.

Update apps

Factory reset can only do so much. Many users think that updating to another Android operating system automatically updates all their apps. The complete opposite is true. You need to ensure that your apps are up-to-date as well to minimize issues. We know that you’re dealing with official apps from reputed developers here but keep in mind that software issues may not necessarily be caused by a firmware. An app optimized to work with Lollipop may not work properly with Marshmallow, for example. In an ideal world, app developers are supposed to ensure that their products will work with the new operating system but we know that this does not always happen. Outdated apps can sometimes lead to conflicts. Make sure to contact the developers to see if their product is ready for Marshmallow.

Fixing cannot send SMS issue

If a handset appears to have difficulty sending a text message, when it was able to do so before, that’s probably because there’s a problem on the receiving end. Try sending a text to your own number to see if it goes through. If it’s successful, that means that either your friend is having trouble with his/her phone or carrier, or that your own carrier is unable to transmit your text message to another network.

If you are unable to send a text message to your own number though, make sure that you check that the device’s message center number is correct. If the message center number is not configured properly, your device will be unable to send SMS. To check, just follow the steps below:

Tap Messages.
Tap MORE.
Tap Settings.
Tap More settings.
Tap Text messages.
Tap Message Center and enter the correct number (make sure you call your carrier for the correct one).
Tap Set.

If changing the message center number won’t work, call your wireless carrier to ask for direct assistance.

Problem #3: Galaxy S6 stuck on loading screen during an update

Dear The DroidGuy. I’ve read a lot on your website about troubleshooting the S6 boot issues and tried them to fix my phone.

My current issue is that, I got the official update through the phone settings and downloaded the new OS. While it was installing (plugged into the charger) it rebooted to the Galaxy S6 Edge screen and got stuck there. Power button won’t do anything, and the phone is permanently stuck on that screen.

Pressing power and volume down do reset the phone but it goes back to the same screen. The only mode I could access is the install mode. I want to keep my data but not sure how or if it’s even possible at this stage.

Please guide me to a solution, appreciate your great work. Regards. — Faisal

Solution: Hi Faisal. Over-the-air (OTA) updates resulting to a situation like yours are few and far between but if they do happen, there’s no effective way to boot back the device to normal mode than by installing a new ROM manually. This means that you need to boot your S6 to Odin mode and install a new ROM (stock or custom) yourself. You can use Google to search for detailed instructions how to do it.

Alternatively, you can call Samsung to help you flash the new firmware on your S6.

Problem #4: How to improve battery life on Galaxy S6 Edge Plus

I bought my Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Plus about a month and a half ago from a carrier called Tigo. I have used the phone quite a bit and I almost never let it run out of charge, though most of the time it does go quite low: 5%, 7% even two percent.

However, recently my phone has not been able to stand those percents, immediately shutting off or draining the battery down to the point where I run to find a charger as fast as possible. I know this may not seem that much of an issue, but I’m afraid that percentage will rise and soon enough it won’t stand 12%, or even 20%.

Is there anything at all I can do about this? Should I talk to my carrier to have the battery replaced or…something? Do help me, please. — Daniel

Solution: Hi Daniel. The rate of battery drain on your phone depends on a number of factors including the how many apps are running actively and/or in the background, the status of the battery itself (if it’s still working properly or not), screen brightness, etc. The exact reason varies in every case so figuring it out is yours to do alone. We can only give tips that usually work for most Android users. Below are the things that you can try:

Check what apps are sucking your battery dry. The number of apps and services running simultaneously is one of the common reasons for losing that precious battery life fast. Go under Settings>Battery to see a breakdown of the apps and services eating up battery power. From there, it’s up to you how you’re going to create a strategy to minimize the bleeding. For example, if Facebook app stands out as among the top power consumer in your device together with Screen, you may want to lower the screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level while browsing over Facebook most of the time.

If you want to force an app or apps to go on hibernation mode without fully disabling or uninstalling them, consider using third party apps like Greenify. Doing so helps your phone free up resources and improve battery life without removing anything you might need in the future.

Turn off automatic sync for social networking apps. Another reason for your issue may be an unusually high number of apps that update themselves in the background. Online games, social networking apps, shopping apps, and email apps are among the most notorious reasons for fast battery drain issue across many types of smartphones. If you can’t live without mobile data or Wi-Fi on your handset most of the time, make sure that the sync settings of your apps that require to update their contents regularly are set to off or manual.

Consider dimming the screen. As mentioned above, screen brightness can quickly drain any smartphone’s battery. Samsung’s AMOLED screen is beautiful to behold but is power hungry. If you’re used to using the phone’s screen in full brightness, we say that you sacrifice a little comfort if only to save battery power.

Turn off unnecessary services. The Galaxy S6 is equipped with many services that makes our digital world a bit more comfortable at a cost of battery life. Make sure that you customize options and features that will help conserve battery power. Among the things that you can try are the following:

Discontinue use of Live wallpapers.
Turn off the Bluetooth® feature.
Turn off Wi-Fi®.
Turn off the GPS service.
Turn off the Smart features.
Decrease the backlight time (timeout settings).
Decrease the brightness of the display, or use Automatic brightness.
Turn off haptic feedback.

If the “percentage” continues to rise after doing our battery life improvement tips, there may be some hardware error behind the trouble. If your phone is still covered by a warranty, kindly call Samsung for repair or replacement.

Problem #5: Galaxy S6 display won’t turn back on after charging port was replaced

Hi. Ok this is my phone story. It’s been like a couple months that when I charge my phone on the power, I sometimes need to Giggle the cable at the charger port on my phone. Sometimes I wouldn’t need to, but with time, it became frequent till the day I’d ALWAYS need to do that.

Then it came to the point that my phone couldn’t charge again. i tried different cable, for sure the problem came from my phone. There was nothing wrong at all anywhere else then the charging thing, screen worked fine etc.

I took it to a phone repair place to fix it, they tried to change the port, and battery, since then screen wouldn’t work anymore!!! We picked it up without it being fixed unfortunately and when I plugged it on power, it would charge just fine, no need to giggle the cable in the entry port, now it’s just the screen. I see the red light showing its charging, when i try to turn on the phone, i can tell it does respond cause of the vibrator BUT no display at all.

Thanks for your help. — Hinata

Solution: Hi Hinata. If the screen issue happened after the repair session, your best option is to bring the phone back to the repair shop to have it fixed. Unless you want to replace the screen yourself, there’s just nothing that we can tell you that will fix it. No software troubleshooting can repair a broken display.

Problem #6: Galaxy S6 Home button stopped working, notification bar not showing, unable to install or uninstall apps after Android update

Hello. I have a Galaxy S6. I was prompted to update my system. Once the update was complete a lot of things stopped working. I no longer have access to the notification bar, the home button stopped functioning, the background went completely black, I cannot install or uninstall apps, and am also receiving the error messages “System UI has stopped working” and “Package Access Helper” has stopped working.

I also have a cracked screen and applied for the insurance replacement, which I received, but I have to return the old one. This wouldn’t be an issue, however I need to get the data off of the old phone that I have had for 2 years.

I don’t have a lot of tech experience, but I am really good at following instruction, as long as it is detailed. I know that it might be a little more work for you all to help me, but I would be eternity grateful. I have read a lot of articles trying to find and solution and I think I found one. I think that if I could install the app Helium that I could backup my app data and transfer to my new phone. One: Would this work? Two: How do I get the app to install with the system UI & package access helper error? Can you guys please help? Thank you. — Lisa

Solution: Hi Lisa. We’re sorry to hear about this issue but if your device no longer allows app installation at this time, your only choices to get it back to working order is by doing either a master reset or by flashing a stock or custom ROM. Both of these procedures involve wiping the internal phone storage.

If you have a computer, try to connect your device to it via USB and see if it detects it. If you’re lucky, you may still be able to move your phone data to your computer before doing a factory reset or ROM installation.

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How to fix Marshmallow-related problems on Galaxy S6 series, deleted emails keeps coming back to inbox, other issues

While Android #Marshmallow is well regarded compared to Lollipop, Google’s new OS is far from perfect. For the past few weeks, we’ve been getting a lot of reports from our readership about the new OS causing problems. This post discusses some of these issues that affect some #GalaxyS6 devices.

Deleted emails on Galaxy S6 keeps coming back to inbox
Galaxy S6 keeps on freezing and restarting on its own
How to fix Marshmallow-related problems on Galaxy S6 series

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Deleted emails on Galaxy S6 keeps coming back to inbox

Hey TheDroidGuy. I have a Samsung Galaxy S6 (not the Edge one). I have contacted my web and email hosts justhost.com about this issue, however I am not getting very far.

I have only recently installed a Samsung software update to the phone. Before the update everything email wise was working perfectly.

Now the update is installed, my emails have been coming in and I am able to send emails without any problems (as before). The problem I am having is that when I delete an email on my phone; at the next sync interval, the deleted email comes back into my inbox!!

I am using an IMAP format and my settings etc have not changed. I have deleted the email accounts (x5) and re-introduced them, being meticulous to get all settings, passwords etc etc correct, as per previous.

Is there something I can do without deleting the cache partition and restoring factory default settings please?

Or will this settle down eventually, given a couple of weeks? Many thanks on advance for your advice.

Regards. — Daniel

Solution: Hi Daniel. The best thing that you can do for now is to observe if the issue will continue in the next few days. There may be some sync problems on your email provider’s side preventing the actions of an email client (your device) from being implemented properly.

Keep in mind that email problems may not exactly be due to an issue on your device. There’s only so much that you can do on your end. The troubleshooting the you can do includes wiping the email app’s cache and data, deleting the cache partition, and ultimately, performing a factory reset. Before you commit to drastic measures though, we recommend that you work with your email provider first to rule out possible server issues. We’re aware that you’ve already contacted them but if you’re paying for their services, they’re obligated to help you fix a problem like this.

Problem #2: Galaxy S6 keeps on freezing and restarting on its own

I have this issue of the phone freezing and restarting. Sometimes it just freezes. I already did a lot of factory reset and cache wiping but it still persist. One time I was playing Fallout Shelter and then Google Play games popped out because I achieved something and then the screen turned kinda like black and white stripes then rebooted. Then it starts freezing randomly. When I open messages, or settings, or when the screen locks, or before the phone shuts down, it freezes and the phone becomes hot as hell.

I’m thinking of updating my phone’s software to 5.1.2 or 5.1.1 (i’m not sure) as I’m currently running 5.0.2. Hoping it can fix it but as I download the OTA it freezes!! 15% of the download. Now i’m thinking how would I update the phone with this problem. I dunno what makes it freeze and restart like that. Phone doesn’t have warranty anymore. The phone’s never been soaked to liquid before. Help please. 🙁 — Aaron

Solution: Hi Aaron. We can point our finger to some known causes of freezing and random restart problems but identifying the exact reason can be tricky. Among the usual culprits include:

poor memory (RAM) management
network changes and bandwidth limitations
malfunctioning processor (CPU)
bad app
compatibility issues
insufficient storage space
nonfunctional SD card
low capacity battery
other hardware errors

Check for Android updates

Finding out which of these things is behind the trouble requires troubleshooting. You can start by making sure that you install the latest software update. We know you’ve already tried it once but we’ll ask you again to do it again. Before you do so though, you have to ensure that your phone boots in safe mode to minimize possible freezing, especially if there’s a chance that a third party app may be to blame. Simply follow these steps in order to boot your phone in safe mode:

Press and hold the Volume Down and Power keys for 20 to 30 seconds.
Once you see the Samsung logo, release the Power key immediately but continue pressing the Volume Down key.
Your phone should continue booting up and you will be prompted to unlock your phone as usual.
You will know if the phone successfully booted in safe mode if the text “Safe mode” is displayed at the lower-left corner of the screen.

Delete the cache partition

The cache partition is a repository of system files used by the operating system during app load times. Rather than come up with sets of files to hasten loading times, your Android device “caches” previously created system files in the cache partition so it can access them easily the next time an app is loaded. In an ideal world, files in the cache partition should be refreshed automatically during an app or system update. This doesn’t happen most of the time though. Sometimes, manually wiping the cache partition is necessary in order to refresh it. Because the files themselves are temporary, they can be deleted safely without impacting the operating system or the apps. The system will automatically create a new set of cache files that next time you load your apps.

Wiping the cache partition has proven effective in fixing minor app-specific issues as well as freezing and random reboot issues. If you haven’t done this step yet, simply follow these steps:

Turn off the device.
Press and hold the following three buttons at the same time: Volume Up key, Home key, and Power key.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power key but continue to press and hold the Volume Up key and the Home key.
When the Android System Recovery screen appears, release the Volume Up and Home keys.
Press the Volume Down key to highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
Press the Power key to select.
When the wipe cache partition is complete, ‘Reboot system now’ is highlighted.
Press the Power key to restart the device.

Clear app cache and data

This troubleshooting step goes hand in hand with wiping the cache partition, albeit for targeted apps only. If the issue appears to be limited to a specific app only, deleting its cache and data may easily fix the problem for you. Here’s how it’s done:

Go to Settings.
Proceed to Applications.
Select Manage Applications.
Tap the All tab.
Choose the name of the app that has been going rogue.
From there, you will see the Clear Cache and Clear Data buttons.

Uninstall apps

Many Android users think that updating the operating system also means apps are automatically updated in the process. The truth is quite the opposite. Improperly coded apps can lead to a variety of problems so make sure that you only install official, and regularly updated apps. Not every developer is keen enough to update their product and/or fix bugs when new OS updates are released. If you have unused apps sitting idly for over two weeks, chances are it’s not necessary. Keep the number of your apps as slim as possible and remember to stick to products built by reputable developers.

Perform a master reset

Nobody wants to do this but if nothing seems to work, you really have no other choice in terms of troubleshooting left. Restoring firmware and app settings back to defaults may eliminate bugs that developed after installing third party apps or updates over time. Here’s how it’s done:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, highlight the option, ‘wipe data/factory reset’ and press the Power key to select it.
Press the Volume Down button again until the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted and then press the Power key to select it.
After the reset is complete, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and hit the Power key to restart the phone.

Time for hardware checkup

If the problem persists after doing all of the above, you can safely assume that a hardware issue may be to blame. At times, a damaged battery can make the phone lose power in a very short time. Because the S6 has a non-removable battery pack, you must let a professional or Samsung do some checks on it. Bear in mind that a faulty processor can also result to freezing or random reboot issues and diagnosing it can be a difficult business. If you suspect that some internal components is to blame other than the battery, finding a way to have the phone replacement is always better than having the device repaired.

Problem #3: How to fix Marshmallow-related problems on Galaxy S6 series

Since Marshmallow was pushed to my phone my email will not sync both ways. If I receive an email it will appear on both my phone and my laptop. If I delete if from my S6 it will delete it from my laptop. If I delete from my laptop it will not delete from my phone unless I manually delete it. Everything worked fine before the new software. I have talked with Sprint, CenturyLine (my email carrier) and Samsung. They all have no clue as to why this is happening. I have hard rebooted my phone, Sprint has reacquired my phone and have cleared the cache. — Mike

Received the Marshmallow update two days ago, now my voicemail number is linked to my daughters phone number on my account. When calling her number, it’s labeled Voicemail. Also, when receiving MMS messages, when I reply, it adds my daughters number to the messaging and it looks like she is the one replying to the text thread. Not sure if any of my other contacts are linked together. — Valarie

Hello! I am writing from Europe. Here they’ve just released the latest update 6.0.1 which I’ve done for my S6. I had a few problems at the beginning which I’ve managed to solve except one: I set a photo from my gallery as home and lockscreen and anytime I restart the phone it’s gone. The display goes back to the pinkish/blue default Samsung background for the lock screen and the blue one for the home screen. Any suggestion? I wouldn’t want to make a factory reset for such a silly issue…

thanks in advance! — Barbara

My phone was recently updated to Android 6.0.1 and now my email is not syncing correctly, I am syncing to my work email through Exchange Server. Before the update my phone had no issues receiving and sending email but now it doesn’t seem to be working correctly. I have check all setting and they are the same as they were before. I am wondering if I need to uninstall my Exchange account and reinstall it to see if that will work.

Thanks. — Don

I’ve recently updated to marshmallow. But since the update my S6 is so slow. Weather I’m browsing using wifi or without. And using my phone in general e.g messing, openings contacts list to make call, email etc. Keeps lagging. Response is so so slow from my phone. Can take upto 10secs to complete an action. Is there anything i can do to make my phone normal again? 🙁

Thank you. — Salma

My phone forced me to do the marshmallow update. Now I have to swipe the screen prior to using my pattern to login. (I have kids and this can be difficult when I am doing things one handed.) It also changed my email so I can’t just swipe across the email to send it to trash. I have to check the box next to the email in order to delete it. Swiping it gives a menu or will open the email. Is there any way to disable the extra login screen and change the email back to deleting with a single swipe of the message? I have tried to find it in the settings menu and haven’t been able to find a fix. Thank you! — Dana

Solution: Hi Guys. Post-Marshmallow update issues on the S6 are mounting fast during the last few weeks so addressing them in bulk in this post looks reasonable enough. Although it may appear that each problem may be separate from each other, the reason why they’re happening in the first place lies in the fact that they were triggered by installing Android Marshmallow. This doesn’t mean that Google’s new operating system itself is purely to blame. There are many other variables that can come into play when running a developing operating system. The interaction of Marshmallow with other apps that may or may not be optimized to work with it can create a lot of possible points of failure. It’s not surprising that average users will right away blame the new operating system as the villain.

Fortunately, fixing whatever problem you may be getting following any Android update is easy enough in most cases. In general, the basic software troubleshooting steps like the ones outlined above can effectively counter most update-related problems. Those issues that remain after wiping the cache partition or doing a factory reset are most likely app-related, which means that either they’re poorly coded, or their developer did not bother updating it to work with the new OS. As mentioned above, not all developers see the need to ensure that their product works in harmony with the new OS. In fact, a big chunk of available apps in Google Play Store right now are still not optimized to work with Marshmallow because developers simply don’t care. An app designed to work with Android KitKat or Lollipop does not necessarily mean to work smoothly with Marshmallow. If you are an early adapter or Marshmallow, or if your wireless carrier “forced” the update to your device, make sure that all your apps are fully updated. Don’t hesitate to temporarily uninstall an outdated app, especially if you’re having problems after installing Marshmallow.

As a general rule of thumb, make sure that you wipe the cache partition and do a factory reset after a major update. Please check this post for more discussions about Android Marshmallow.

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Galaxy S7 won’t play videos in MMS mode, other issues

Hi everyone! We bring you another article about #GalaxyS7 issues and solutions. If you don’t find your issue published here today, keep watching for more posts in the coming days.

Below are the topics we cover in this material today:

Galaxy S7 won’t send text messages (SMS)
Galaxy S7 became unresponsive after an update
Galaxy S7 loses audio during calls
Galaxy S7 won’t play videos in MMS mode
New Galaxy S7 won’t stay on and shuts off with 49% battery level

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Galaxy S7 won’t send text messages (SMS)

My phone is having trouble sending regular text messages only. This happens several times a day in the exact same settings as when it seems flawlessly. This can happen when sending texts to any phone, iPhone, Android, etc and when it starts failing for one, it will fail for all. I’ll get the little sending circle icon, which will stay there for up to 2 minutes before saying it failed to send. Other times it will just take 30 to 60 seconds to just send even 1 line of text. I have full service when this occurs, and I have noticed that it happens more often when I’m connected to Wi-Fi (T-Mobile lets you call and text over Wi-Fi), but will happen when just normally connected.

I have gone into T-Mobile twice to trouble shoot, and was then given a replacement phone for my 2 week old one, as well as a new SIM card. The new phone lost half my contacts and all of my old data on transfer, and then still had the same texting problems the day I got it back. Even stopping all text function for several hours, despite several restarts, turning off for a while and then back on, but nothing worked and it wouldn’t send a text until it decided that it was done with its tantrum. This suggests to me either a design flaw or programming issue, as this is 2 phones in a row now. I’ve been a huge Android and Galaxy supporter, but this issue with such a basic function is just too much, and I’m considering going back to the devil (iPhone) if I can’t find a solution. Any help you could lend would be most appreciated! Thank you. — Anthony

Solution: Hi Anthony. Firstly, we want to make it a point that the best party that can help you with this issue is your network provider alone. All text-related problems should be handled by carriers because there are critical factors that only them can handle. These factors include network and account side information that are not accessible for third party support teams like us. An issue like yours can also be caused by a bad firmware (operating system), glitch on the carrier-provided Messaging app, network trouble, third party app bug, to mention a few. The troubleshooting tips that we provide in this blog are generally similar to how they identify issues with their customers. Of course they have the added advantage of knowing whether or not there’s an on-going network outage affecting certain areas, or if the current update they released is causing some problems. It is in this sense that we want you to call them again for a resolution.

As regards the troubleshooting steps that you can try on your end, you are limited to doing potential software solutions only. Below are the troubleshooting that you can try.

Boot the Galaxy S7 to safe mode. Booting in safe mode is an important first step in this particular case since the problem has been happening on at least 2 devices. This means that there’s a chance that one of the installed apps on both phones is interfering with the messaging app function. To check if that’s the case, you must observe the phone while it’s on safe mode. While this mode is enabled, all third party apps and their associated services will be prevented from running. If the issue won’t occur, that’s a sign that one of your third party application is problematic. Here are the steps on how to boot your S7 in safe mode:

Press and hold the Power key.
As soon as you can see the ‘Samsung Galaxy S7’ on the screen, release the Power key and immediately hold the Volume Down key.
Continue holding the Volume Down button until the device finishes rebooting.
You may release it when you can see ‘Safe mode’ in the bottom left corner of the screen.

Delete messaging app cache and data. If nothing will change, your next troubleshooting step is to delete your messaging app’s cache and data. Simply follow these steps:

Go to Settings.
Proceed to Applications.
Select Manage Applications.
Tap the All tab.
Look for the messaging app and tap it.
Tap Storage.
Tap Clear Cache and Clear Data buttons (in this order).

Keep in mind that tapping on Clear Data button will delete your text messages. Make sure you create a backup of your messages before proceeding.

If the above procedures won’t make any difference, contact T-Mobile again for resolution.

Problem #2: Galaxy S7 became unresponsive after an update

Same as many have described. Black Screen, Blue blinking light. Totally unresponsive to any keys. Mine started a few days after update. It had low battery and i plugged it into my car charger. It said moisture detected, but there WAS NO MOISTURE. It quit taking a charge and the battery went dead. Afterward it went to the current state. and stayed that way until next day, when the blue light turned itself off. I plugged it into my car charger and tried to start it up. nothing. then i did the soft reset and it started. While on the charger, the startup began, and went to the ATT start screen where it quickly ran out of battery and died. I gave it about twenty minutes on the charger and tried again this time it went further and got as far as to say updating android step 6 of 6. At which point it died again and went back to the black screen with the blue flashing light. Now it is again unresponsive to any keys. There is something seriously wrong with this latest update. My son had a very similar issue with his S7 edge after the software update, but got it to restart after a couple of days. My thought is to let it die off completely until the blue light is off. charge it for a long time. and then try to restart again. The advice on your site is not helpful regarding this issue. Thanks. — John

Solution: Hi John. If the advice you got from our blog did not help, then that means your issue is beyond your ability to fix at your level. Software troubleshooting can only be done if you can turn the phone back on and not totally unresponsive. If your S7 is dead, won’t power on normally, or won’t boot to other modes (safe mode, recovery mode, download mode), then there’s nothing much that can be done. If the update was pushed by your carrier, make sure that you let them know about the issue so they can help you. Otherwise, call Samsung and have the phone replaced.

Problem #3: Galaxy S7 loses audio during calls

This has been going on sporadically for a month but now it’s worse. My phone has decided it no longer wants to work as a telephone. Everything else works, but when I make a call or a call comes in, it’s just silence on my end. I have done the ‘try it in safe mode’ idea – doesn’t work still.

Yesterday I hard rebooted my phone. It worked for 2 phone calls then quit again. Today it is back to square one. I can see myself dial, it shows the call dialing and then silence – not working in regular mode or safe mode. The only apps on the phone are the ones that came with the hard reboot, so I don’t think it’s an app(s) causing it.

I have a ticket with Samsung and less than a month on the warranty – should I send it to them or is there another solution? Would replacing the SIM card do anything? So frustrating…not sure I’ll choose Samsung/Android next time. Also interesting to note is how got my phone gets even since this issue started but it never did before this… Thanks in advance! — Sheradec1

Solution: Hi Sheradec1. If nothing changes even on safe mode, try doing a factory reset and observe how calling works for 24 hours. Make sure that you don’t install anything during the observation period so you’ll see if the problem is due to an app, on the phone itself. Keep in mind that the problem can also be caused by a glitch on the network side so you also need to address this potential issue by calling your carrier. In the meantime, here are the steps on how to do a factory reset:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge.
Press and hold the Volume Up, Home and Power keys together.
When the device powers on and displays ‘Power on logo’, release all keys and the Android icon will appear on the screen.
Wait until the Android Recovery Screen appears after about 30 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, highlight the option, ‘wipe data/factory reset’ and press the Power key to select it.
Press the Volume Down button again until the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted and then press the Power key to select it.
After the reset is complete, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and hit the Power key to restart the phone.

Should the issue continues even when the firmware has been restored to default, calling your carrier is the next logical step. They may also suggest replacing the SIM card so we say you go for it. If you have the option for a phone replacement, you can also try that.

Problem #4: Galaxy S7 won’t play videos in MMS mode

Hello, i seem to be having two issues. First, I have been taking a lot of videos in MMS mode on my Galaxy phone and after some time I started receiving an error message that says sorry this video cannot be played. I have deleted many of the videos and still get the message from videos starting about a quarter of the way through to the first video i recorded, they all worked a short while ago.

Second issue is that I have been downloading videos to my computer via USB and have been getting video files that are anywhere from 7 GB to 10 GB. most are around 9 GB and my video players will not play them. Most of my other videos are 400 MB to 2 GB at most and they play just fine. How can I fix them so they play?
Thank you in advance. — Brian

Solution: Hi Brian. We can’t see any logical connection between the first and second issues but your S7 may be having trouble creating and reading videos. We haven’t heard of this problem happening on other Galaxy S7s so there’s no way for us to know the true cause. You must do some troubleshooting on your end to identify and eliminate the bug.

The first thing that you want to do is wipe the phone’s system cache. This can be done by doing these steps:

Turn off the device.
Press and hold the following three buttons at the same time: Volume Up key, Home key, and Power key.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power key but continue to press and hold the Volume Up key and the Home key.
When the Android System Recovery screen appears, release the Volume Up and Home keys.
Press the Volume Down key to highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
Press the Power key to select.
When the wipe cache partition is complete, ‘Reboot system now’ is highlighted.
Press the Power key to restart the device.

Another potential solution that you can try is to clear the video app’s cache and data (steps provided above).

Alternatively, you can try install a different video app to see if that will make a difference. If nothing will change, consider doing a factory reset.

For your second issue, the first thing that you can do about it is to check if your video files are readable by a different device. If your current computer is having trouble opening or loading videos, find another computer to play them. If the second computer will have the same issue, that’s an indication that the video files may be corrupted. There’s also the possibility that the file format of said videos may not be compatible with your computer’s video player. Make sure that your computer’s video player can read the file format of the videos. Do some research what file format the video player can read to give you an idea. If the current video file format is compatible with your computer’s video player but the issue persists, that’s a clear sign that said videos must have been corrupted when they were created or transferred from your phone, which makes it connected to the first issue you raised. Since there’s no way to fix corrupted files, there’s nothing much that you can do for them.

Problem #5: New Galaxy S7 won’t stay on and shuts off with 49% battery level

It’s a Samsung Galaxy S7. The phone is brand new. I bought it sealed in the box. I’ve only had it for about 3 weeks and all of a sudden my battery was at 49% and it just turned off.

I tried all the suggested options in the threads and nothing has worked. The phone will start up and stay on for about 20 seconds and then turn off on its own when I put the charger on it. It doesn’t pick up the phone and show the red light like usual. instead it acts as if it’s not charging until about 15 minutes and then it shows up as no battery and charging. after that it shows the 49% and charging. Once I turn it on, it stays on for maybe 20 seconds.. just as long as it takes to type in my passcode and move my app screen and it turns back off again. I’m assuming it can’t be the battery as it is a new phone. I’m willing to try anything. I really can’t afford a new phone right now.

Thank you. — Kylie

Solution: Hi Kylie. If this problem exists even after you did a factory reset (which is usually a must-do in most of our articles), then you can assume that you may have a bad phone. As far as resolution is concerned, there’s really nothing much that you can do on your end. We highly suggest that you find a way to have your device replaced.

Related reading: Galaxy Note 5 battery loses power fast

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Samsung Galaxy S2 SMS Pictures Won’t Download

“My Samsung Galaxy S2 has trouble downloading pictures sent through SMS. Is there a way to fix this issue?” This was the message that was sent to us at The Droid Guy Mailbag.

Based on the Android Central forum, here are several ways to fix the problem wherein the Galaxy S2 SMS pictures won’t download:

1. Make Sure that Cellular Data is On

Before doing anything else, check if your cellular data is turned On. Basically, SMS only uses mobile data, so if it is not activated, you will likely have trouble retrieving images.

2. Turn Off the Auto Retrieve Function of Multimedia Messages (MMS)

On the messaging app, click Settings. Then, go to MMS. From there, see to it that Auto Retrieve is disabled. Next time you receive a picture through SMS, all you have to do is tap Download, and you should be able to save it in your device. Many users said that this solution worked for them.

3. Update Data Profile and Preferred Roaming List (PRL)

According to the support page of Sprint, you can do this by getting into Settings. Proceed to System Updates. The next screen should lead you choices that will let you update your profile and PRL.

4. Reset Access Point Names (APN)

Go to Settings. Following this, go to Mobile Network Settings. Tap Access Point Names or APNs. Hit the Menu button and Reset to Default. Several users also confirmed that this fixed their problem.

5. Restart Phone

After applying any of the solutions above, always restart your phone if the configurations do not apply right away.

6. Request the Sender to Transfer Photos One at a Time

Some users said that the problem only occurs when they are receiving multiple SMS with pictures. However, this does not happen when pictures are being sent one at a time. Hence, if you can ask the sender to send only one picture per text message, do so.

7. Observe Phone in Safe Mode

Reboot your phone in Safe Mode and observe if the trouble is still there. If the problem does not occur while in that mode, there must be a third-party app interfering with the normal functions of your device. Try to locate it and uninstall it from your unit. However, if the problem is still there, there is a possibility that a hardware or firmware issue is causing it.

8. Do a Factory Reset

Back up your device. Then, do a Factory Reset from Recovery Mode If you cannot locate the source of the issue and all the solutions mentioned here failed to solve your problem.

9. Wipe Cache Partition

You can wipe the cache partition as well if Factory Reset does not cut it. This can be found in Recovery Mode too.

10. Root and Flash Your Firmware

If you suspect that a recent Android update is causing the problem, there are three ways to solve it. One is by waiting for another update that contains a fix, bring your phone to a trusted Android technician, or root, flash and install a custom ROM to your phone all by yourself.

Email Us

For more questions related to Android devices, send them to us at [email protected].

Sources: Android Central, Sprint

Galaxy S7 Phone app not working, “unfortunately, phone has stopped” error, other issues

Good day everyone! Welcome to another post that answers questions submitted by some #GalaxyS7 users. There are 8 more issues covered here today. We hope this article will help not just the users mentioned in this post but the rest our ever-growing Android community as well.

For now, here are the topics we’re covering in this one:

Galaxy S7 won’t turn off
Galaxy S7 Phone app not working, “unfortunately, phone has stopped” error
Galaxy S7 sends MMS fine but receiver gets it under a different phone number
Galaxy S7 Home button does not unlock the screen | Galaxy S7 gets “failed” error message when sending SMS
Galaxy S7 won’t charge
Galaxy S7 touchscreen is unresponsive
Galaxy S7 won’t charge due to moisture in charging port
Galaxy S7 Google app keeps crashing | Cannot transfer apps from Galaxy S7 to SD card

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: Galaxy S7 won’t turn off

All your troubleshooting steps always start with turning off the Android. The problem is just that it’s stuck on recovery booting. I can’t turn it off. I can’t do anything. It does not react to any type of solution you have suggested so what do you do in that case when it’s on the black screen of death and booting error “recovery booting” in small blue letters at the top left corner slowly blinking on and off? Nothing will turn it on or off. I can’t put it into safe mode. I can’t do anything. It’s stuck on that particular setting, no logo. I’ve never even seen that come back on this. it’s a black screen with tiny blue letter saying recovery booting with three periods behind it in the top left corner and it will not turn off. — Jlwood1980

Solution: Hi Jlwood1980. There are two ways to turn an unresponsive Galaxy S7 off. The first one is called soft reset. It’s the equivalent of a “battery pull” on a device with a detachable battery. Before you do a soft reset, make sure that your phone has at least 5% battery left. Your phone may not boot back up if you do a soft reset when there’s not enough battery left. Below are the steps on how to simulate a battery pull or soft reset on your Galaxy S7:

Press and hold the Power (located on the right edge) and Volume down buttons (located on the left edge) for 12 seconds.
Use the Volume down button to scroll to the Power Down option.
Press the Home key to select.

Note: The device powers down completely. It is recommended that the device be powered up in Safe Mode.

The second way to turn the phone off, in case the first one is unsuccessful, is by letting the battery drain power. If your phone fails to turn back on after it turns off, make sure to charge it immediately to avoid draining all the remaining power in the battery. Once battery percentage reaches 0%, there still a small trickle of power left in the battery itself to allow the circuits to respond once the charger is connected. Allowing too much time to pass before recharging the battery may fully drain the remaining power in the battery, which may effectively put the battery out of order. This is often the reason why a fully drained battery results to phones failing to boot. If the battery does appear to have exhausted its remaining power and the phone no longer boots up, you must send the phone in so it can be repaired or replaced.

Once you start turning off the phone normally again, make sure to try booting the phone to alternate modes so you can do follow up troubleshooting. Here are the steps:

Boot in Recovery mode:

Charge the phone for at least 30 minutes.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
You can either wipe the cache partition or do a factory reset when in this mode.

Boot in Download Mode:

Charge the phone for at least 30 minutes.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume DOWN keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume DOWN keys.
Wait until the Download screen appears.
If you can boot the phone in download mode but not in other modes, that means that your only way out may be to flash a stock or custom firmware.
Use Google to look for a guide on how to do it.

Boot in safe mode:

Charge the phone for at least 30 minutes.
Press and hold the Power button.
Once the ‘Samsung Galaxy S7’ logo appears, release the Power key and immediately press and hold the Volume Down button.
Continue holding the button until the phone finishes rebooting.
Once you see the text “Safe mode” at the bottom left corner of the screen, release the Volume Down button.
The only difference of safe mode from normal mode is that the former prevents third party apps from running. If you can boot the phone in safe mode but not in normal mode, uninstall all apps until the issue (that prevents you from booting normally) is eliminated.

Problem #2: Galaxy S7 Phone app not working, “unfortunately, phone has stopped” error

The phone just started popping up with the error message, “Processcom.android.phone has stopped working,” when a text message was trying to be sent but it doesn’t do it every time.

Also sometimes when someone tries to call, the error message, “unfortunately, phone has stopped,” will appear and not allow the call to be answered and the phone freezes. It seems that the phone has been having several issues since it did an update to the kernel version. The icons changed with permission. After turning the phone back on the icons were changed and the keyboard layout was changed as well.

Was having problems with screen overlay but I think that it was fixed by turning it off but think other apps may be turned off that might need to be on. — Elizabeth

Solution: Hi Elizabeth. The first thing that you want to do is to delete the cache and data of the problematic app, in this case the Phone app. Both errors — “Processcom.android.phone has stopped working” and “Unfortunately, phone has stopped” — are indicating that this app has encountered a problem so deleting its cache and data may help. Here’s how to do it:

Open the Settings menu either through your notification shade (drop-down) or through the Settings app in your app drawer.
Navigate down to “Apps”. This may be renamed to something like Applications or Application Manager in OEM skinned versions of Android 6.0.
Once in there, click on an application.
You’ll now see a list of stuff that gives you information about the app, including Storage, Permissions, Memory Use, and more. These are all clickable items. You’ll want to click on Storage.
You should now clearly see the Clear Data and Clear Cache buttons for the application.

If clearing the cache and data won’t work, be sure to reset all software settings to their defaults by performing a factory reset. This procedure will wipe the phone’s internal storage so you must create a backup of your files before doing it.

To factory reset your S7, follow these steps:
Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes — delete all user data’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

Problem #3: Galaxy S7 sends MMS fine but receiver gets it under a different phone number

I have the Galaxy S7 and not for very long. so I discovered while texting my GF that when I sent an MMS to her, her phone received it under a phone number that is different from mine. All the normal messages I send to her show up under the proper phone number. No one else seems to have an answer for this and I have tried everything in the settings for texts and MMS and made sure anything network related is on. — Bhazelman32

Solution: Hi Bhazelman32. Did you troubleshoot your girlfriend’s phone too? If there’s no problem when you send a message, the problem must be on the receiving end. Make sure that your girlfriend’s contacts are in order. She must not save your number twice in her contacts list. She can also try to wipe the cache and data of her messaging app just in case there’s a bug that got stuck somewhere.

If all else fails, let here contact her carrier as it might be network related as well.

Problem #4: Galaxy S7 Home button does not unlock the screen | Galaxy S7 gets “failed” error message when sending SMS

My phone is fairly new and I’m already experiencing issues. The first issue isn’t that big of a deal but it is annoying. When the phone is locked, the home button doesn’t always make the screen come on and allow me to unlock the phone. I can push it three of four times with nothing happening.

Next, i get a “failed” error message when i try to send a text message. This usually happens when connected to Wi-Fi but had also happened when not. Please help. Thanks! — S526492

Solution: Hi S526492. Your first issue may be a sign that the Home button of your phone is malfunctioning and not that sensitive already. To check, pull up the service and test the sensitivity of the said button. Here’s how:

Open the Phone app.
Dial “*#0*#” (without the quote).
Tap the Sub key button.
Tap the Home button and see if it responds right away. The screen color should change to blue the first time you tap on the Home button. Alternate between another button and Home button to test the Home button sensitivity multiple times. A normally working Home button should change the screen color every time you tap it. If it doesn’t, it’s time to send your phone in for repair or replacement.

Your second issue may be due to a phone problem or an on-going network issue. If the basic software troubleshooting like wiping the cache partition, deleting messaging app’s cache and data, observing in safe mode, and factory reset won’t work, contact your wireless carrier for assistance.

For reference, below are the exact steps of some of the software troubleshooting procedures mentioned:

How to wipe the cache partition of Galaxy S7

Minor firmware and hardware glitches can be fixed by deleting the system cache. In fact, we technicians always recommend doing it before performing any of the reset procedures:

Turn off your Samsung Galaxy S7.
Press and then hold the Home and Volume UP keys, then press and hold the Power key.
When the Samsung Galaxy S7 shows on the screen, release the Power key but continue holding the Home and Volume Up keys.
When the Android logo shows, you may release both keys and leave the phone be for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Using the Volume Down key, navigate through the options and highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
Once highlighted, you may press the Power key to select it.
Now highlight the option ‘Yes’ using the Volume Down key and press the Power button to select it.
Wait until your phone is finished doing the Master Reset. Once completed, highlight ‘Reboot system now’ and press the Power key.
The phone will now reboot longer than usual.

How to restart an S7 to safe mode

It is imperative you know this procedure as it is very important in troubleshooting third-party or downloaded apps. You can follow these steps if your phone frequently reboots and you can’t perform troubleshooting while in normal mode.

Turn your Galaxy S7 off.
Press and hold the Power button.
Once the ‘Samsung Galaxy S7’ logo appears, release the Power key and immediately press and hold the Volume Down button.
Continue holding the button until the phone finishes rebooting.
Once you see the text “Safe mode” at the bottom left corner of the screen, release the Volume Down button.

Problem #5: Galaxy S7 won’t charge

Galaxy S7 wouldn’t charge. I did the cold boot. And it started charging again. That was yesterday. Today it wouldn’t charge again. Did cold boot. Started charging. Then on the way home today, wouldn’t charge. And still won’t after cold boot. Tried different charge cables and chargers as well. Cold boot is holding both volume buttons and power buttons. — Jdarmstrong1973

Solution: Hi Jdarmstrong1973. If you can still manage to power the phone back on, try to do the basic software troubleshooting procedures mentioned above such as wiping the cache partition, observing in safe mode, and factory reset. If not one of them will work, you can assume that bad hardware is causing the trouble. Have the phone repaired or replaced.

Before sending the phone in, try to do a closer inspection of the charging port. Sometimes, dust or a bent pin can cause erratic charging behavior. Cleaning the port or fixing a bent pin may help.

Problem #6: Galaxy S7 touchscreen is unresponsive

Hi Droid guys. So you have helped me get my phone out of black screen blue light of death but now it has crashed and has no LED lit up although it had the ‘back’ and multi screen icons white. Nothing I do gets the phone to respond. Any ideas so that I don’t have to wait for hours in the shop or have to have it sent away for repair ? I have recently updated it…bloody phone! — Debbie

Solution: Hi Debbie. You can try to either boot the phone to safe mode or recovery mode so you can do some follow through troubleshooting steps. If you can manage to boot it to safe mode but not in regular mode, that’s an indication that a third party app is the culprit. To fix the issue, you should uninstall apps until the issue is eliminated.

Under recovery mode, there are two procedures that you can do — wipe the cache partition and factory reset. Try to wipe the cache partition first and see if your phone will boot back normally. If it doesn’t do a factory reset.

Problem #7: Galaxy S7 won’t charge due to moisture in charging port

Last night, before i went to sleep i put my phone to charge and it detected moisture. So i cleaned it with a Q-tip stick and it started to charge again. So i went to sleep and when i woke up it wasn’t charging anymore and doesn’t want to. Do i file a claim for a new one or should i just get a wireless charger? — Lesleymolina411

Solution: Hi Lesleymolina411. The Galaxy S7 will not charge via cable if it detects moisture. Make sure that you dry the charging port thoroughly first before doing any other troubleshooting or sending it in. Try to use a hair dryer to blow out remaining moisture inside the port. Be careful not to put more than necessary heat to the charging port to avoid overheating the phone. If nothing changes after you do this, you can consider asking for phone replacement.

Problem #8: Galaxy S7 Google app keeps crashing | Cannot transfer apps from Galaxy S7 to SD card

Hi! I have a Samsung Galaxy S7 that I love. Recently, I had problems with the screen flashing, and received a brand new phone under warranty. I set up the new phone just like the old. It updated the Google Now app with the Google Assistant which I HATED, so I rolled back the Google update. I uninstalled the Google app and unchecked the auto-updates. This fixed it so I had Google Now with a long press of the home button. I accidentally pressed update to the Google app update while updating other apps, and it re-installed the Assistant app a second time. Again I uninstalled the Google app, made sure it wasn’t auto-updating, and tried to reinstall it. Now whenever I long press the home button to go to the Now cards or I use the Google search widget on my phone’s Home screen, it opens for a moment, then says the Google app has crashed. Unfortunately there’s no option to report the crash. I’ve tried restarting the phone, etc. but nothing helps.

I also noticed another strange thing, that I can no longer move the apps from the internal storage to the SD card through the Settings Application Manager. I don’t know if this is related to the Google app crashing, but I really would appreciate any help you can give. Thanks in advance!! — Danny

Solution: Hi Danny. First try to delete the cache and data of the Google Services Framework app. This app is responsible for supporting other Google apps and services. If it becomes corrupted for some reason, it usually leads to the problem you’re describing here. Wiping its cache and data should easily fix the issue.

Once you’ve cleared the cache and data of Google Services Framework, download the update for Google app again.

Not all apps can be moved to the SD card. Pre-installed and core apps (those needed to run the phone) don’t have option in them to be transferred to an SD card.

To transfer an app from the phone’s internal storage to an SD card, follow these steps:

From the home screen, choose Apps.
Choose Settings.
Choose Applications.
Choose Application manager.
Choose the app you’d like to move.
Choose Storage.
Choose Change.
Choose SD card.

Engage with us

If you are one of the users who encounters a problem with your device, let us know. We offer solutions for Android-related problems for free so if you have an issue with your Android device, simply fill in the short questionnaire in this link and we will try to publish our answers in the next posts. We cannot guarantee a quick response so if your issue is time sensitive, please find another way to resolve your problem.

Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini Won’t Send or Receive MMS

Personalize Galaxy S3 SMS Notification Sound

There are some Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini users who complain about not being able to send or receive MMS. This particular Galaxy S3 Mini problem may stem out from issues like poor network reception, system glitch or another app interfering with the normal function of the device.

Solutions to the Galaxy S3 Mini MMS Problem

Here are the solutions that you can apply to your Galaxy S3 Mini MMS problem:

1. Check Network

Before ruling out anything, try to check first if your area has sufficient network coverage. It should be free from interference and your signal bar should show at least an average strength. Upon verifying that there is no problem with your network, proceed to the next step.

2. Restart the Galaxy S3 Mini

We always advise users to restart their devices when experiencing problems because this method usually solves a lot of issues. Turning off and on the device regularly will help refresh the system of the smartphone from time to time which helps eliminate a lot of glitches.

3. Toggle the Airplane Mode

Try also entering the Airplane Mode of your Galaxy S3 Mini. Then, put it back again into its normal mode. Many communication problems of smartphones are solved this way. Somehow, this process helps refresh the phone too.

4. Exit Power Save Mode

According to a tip provided by one contributor in the Android Central Website, this particular problem is usually triggered by entering the Power Save Mode of the phone. So, if you happened to be under this mode, exit it and put your phone on its regular mode. We would like to add that many users who were experiencing this were able to solve the problem using this procedure.

5. Remove Suspicious Apps

Some third-party apps have the tendency to disrupt the normal functions of the Galaxy S3 Mini native apps. You can confirm this by operating under Safe Mode for a while and by testing your MMS from there.

6. Perform Factory Reset

If any of the solutions above fail to solve the problem, then that’s the time for you to consider performing a Factory Reset. This will put your Galaxy S3 Mini into its original factory settings and remove any unwanted effects brought about by third-party apps. Be reminded to backup all the important data stored in your phone first before doing this so you will not lose them.

Email Us

We hope that this solution helped you. For more questions or ideas that you would like to contribute on this matter, email us at [email protected].

What to do if you forgot your Galaxy S5 fingerprint backup passcode, other issues

Being locked out of your own phone is one of the most frustrating things that a #GalaxyS5 user can experience. If you’re reading this, that’s probably because you’re looking for a way to unlock your phone again. The first topic in this post is dedicated to addressing this problem. We hope that this will be of help ot you.

What to do if you forgot your Galaxy S5 fingerprint backup passcode
Galaxy S6 not sending text messages properly
Galaxy S5 having difficulty sending and receiving SMS and MMS
Galaxy S5 camera won’t focus even after doing software troubleshooting
Galaxy S5 camera takes blurred pictures
Galaxy S5 screen rotation stopped working after Android 6.0.1 update

If you are looking for solutions to your own #Android issue, you can contact us by using the link provided at the bottom of this page, or you can install our free app from Google Play Store.

Problem #1: What to do if you forgot your Galaxy S5 fingerprint backup passcode

Hello I am writing to you on behalf of my brother who is currently in Japan and will be overseas for a further 7 weeks. Please find his email below with the phone issues:

Hello. I am currently in Japan. Last night when I took my Samsung Galaxy S5 mini (recently upgraded to Android 5.1) out of my pocket, and I pushed the power button to open the lock screen, I noticed the fingerprint sensor, which is the normal way I unlock my phone, had disappeared.

The only options I am given are “Enter Password” or “Emergency Call”. When I enter the password, I am given the message “Incorrect backup password” – even though I know it is correct, and have repeatedly reset it remotely via my tablet using Android Device Manager.

When I get the password “incorrect” five times, I am given the message “Unable to verify your fingerprint 5 times. Try again in 30 seconds”. Then after 15 attempts, it says “Unable to unlock screen – Unable to verify your fingerprint 15 times. If you are unsuccessful 5 more times, you can unlock the device with your backup unlock method. Try again in 30 seconds”. This process then continues for infinity, and I am never given an alternative method, such as “Unlock via Google” which is usually visible on my lock screen.

I was wondering if you could help me. Is this a known issue with the Samsung Galaxy S5 mini? Would the fact that I upgraded from Android 4.5 to Android 5.1 a week ago have anything to do with it? Is there any way you could find out from Samsung?

Removing the battery for a long time and re-inserting does not help. Removing the 2degrees SIM card and re-inserting does not help.

Trying in Airplane Mode and not does not help.

Thanks and I hope you can help! My phone is my camera I am using on this holiday so it would be great to get it back.

Please note that my brother is from New Zealand. And we think that the software update that the phone did (which it did automatically) has updated as a Japan version not New Zealand. My brother has not tried a factory reset yet. — Amelia

Solution: Hi Amelia. If your brother was still able to use the phone days after updating to Android 5.1, then the new OS version has nothing to do with current issue. Samsung’s fingerprint sensor does not work 100% all the time. Sometimes, even a tiny speck on the screen or on the finger can lead to misreading. After several attempts of unsuccessful logins, usually five, the device will then ask you to enter the backup password.

There are two things that your brother can try to regain access to his phone. The first one is by forcing the phone to ask for the registered Google account. This can be done by entering the wrong password 20 times. Once the popup shows asking for the Google account, make sure that he enters the correct credentials. Keep in mind that a Google account does not have to be a Gmail account. It can be a third party email with a separate password. Your brother should know this. If he enters the correct credentials, the device will be unlocked and will ask him to enter another passcode.

If he is unlucky and also forgets his Google account credentials, his only way out is by performing a factory reset. There’s no other way than this. As the name suggests, the device will be restored to its factory state, which means everything will be deleted from his device’s internal storage. For reference, here are the steps how to do it:

Turn off the device.
Press and hold the following three buttons at the same time: Volume Up key, Home key, and Power key.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power key but continue to press and hold the Volume Up key and the Home key.
When the Android System Recovery screen appears, release the Volume Up and Home keys.
Press the Volume down key several times key to highlight ‘wipe data / factory reset.’
Press Power button to select.
Press the Volume down key until ‘Yes — delete all user data’ is highlighted.
Press Power button to select and start the master reset.
When the master reset is complete, ‘Reboot system now’ is highlighted.
Press the Power key to restart the device.

Problem #2: Galaxy S6 not sending text messages properly

SMS messages sent from the stock messaging app will not send properly. It will say “Failed to send. Failed to send message to John Doe. Try again?” after a while. Occasionally these “failed” messages get received by the other person, but not frequently. Additionally, I cannot receive most text messages, although occasionally ones will get through, and not always timely. This is a new problem that I haven’t experienced before. In fact for the first half of the day the messages sent fine. However, in the second half of the day they stopped working.

I have tried using the Google Hangouts app and the same issue occurs. I can receive and send calls without issue, so I don’t think it’s a network issue. I have tried turning on/off airplane mode, restarting the phone, and removing the battery/SIM/SD cards. Nothing has solved the issue. I have no issue sending messages via Wi-Fi. It is only text messages that refuse to send properly. Other than attempting a factory reset, are there any tips/ideas as to the potential problem? — Zach

Solution: Hi Zach. The solutions you’ve tried so far may have not worked because the reason may not be phone-related. A problem like this should be referred to your wireless carrier rather than to third parties like us. Having a working voice service does not necessarily mean everything’s working fine on the network side.

Calls and SMS are handled by separate servers on your network. Any problem with your network’s SMS Message Center does not necessarily mean that voice service will also be degraded. Message Centers are computers and they can be subject to maintenance or outages. Make sure that you talk to your carrier about the problem so they can give you direct assistance.

Problem #3: Galaxy S5 having difficulty sending and receiving SMS and MMS

have had my phone for over a year now.. and the past month I have had issues with some, not all, but some of my messages (both SMS & MMS) delaying sending.. or even not sending at all. It started a few months ago trying to send MMS. The picture would sit in the message just spinning, not actually sending, I tried to even send a push message, (just a text) right after to see if it was just hung up. Sometimes that would work, sometimes it wouldn’t. Now it’s happening constantly. I was thinking it was because the new upgrade wasn’t downloading on my phone. Therefore I finally took it into Best Buy and they manual upgraded to the 5.1. It continued to happen. I mentioned it to Best Buy while I was there and they said that it had to do with Network and to speak with ATT about it. I spoke with ATT and they replaced my SIM card, thinking that would fix the problem. It has not.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. — Alisha

Solution: Hi Alisha. Since you’ve already talked to your carrier about the issue, the cause of the problem must be in your phone. The troubleshooting steps that you can try includes wiping the cache partition, deleting the messaging app’s cache and data, and factory reset. Make sure that you them in this order.

A system cache is a set of files created by the device in order to load apps faster and smoother after they were installed. Deleting the cache will force the system to create new ones that work. Here’s how you wipe the cache partition in your phone:

Turn off the device.
Press and hold the following three buttons at the same time: Volume Up key, Home key, and Power key.
When the phone vibrates, release the Power key but continue to press and hold the Volume Up key and the Home key.
When the Android System Recovery screen appears, release the Volume Up and Home keys.
Press the Volume Down key to highlight ‘wipe cache partition.’
Press the Power key to select.
When the wipe cache partition is complete, ‘Reboot system now’ is highlighted.
Press the Power key to restart the device.

If your texting woes continue after wiping the cache, your next potential solution is deleting the messaging app’s cache and data. Here’s how:

Go to Settings.
Proceed to Applications.
Select Manage Applications.
Tap the All tab.
Look for Messaging app and tap it.
From there, you will see the Clear Cache and Clear Data buttons.

If both these procedures won’t work, don’t hesitate to do a factory reset (steps covered above).

Problem #4: Galaxy S5 camera won’t focus even after doing software troubleshooting

My phone camera stopped focusing properly a couple weeks ago, and it won’t focus on anything further than a foot away. I’ve checked online, and nearly all of them say to clear camera cache and data, which I’ve done, but it still isn’t working.

I’ve also tried putting my phone in safe mode in case there is a 3rd party application affecting my camera, but even in safe mode it won’t focus. There is no film on my camera lens, and I’ve tried cleaning it as well.

Now I feel like it’s more a problem with the camera than the software, so would the only option now be to get it looked at and maybe the camera replaced?

I’ve had it for about 2 years now so the warranty is no longer valid so I would at least like to wear out every possible option before I consider getting it looked at. — Jessica

Solution: Hi Jessica. There’s only so much that you can do when it comes to software troubleshooting. The most that you can do in this case is do a factory reset to see the difference. If that won’t change anything though, it’s safe to say that the camera’s hardware maybe to blame.

Problem #5: Galaxy S5 camera takes blurred pictures

The rear camera of my Samsung Galaxy S5 had recently started taking blurry pictures but the front/selfie one is okay. I’ve tried clearing the camera cache, I’ve also tried resetting the phone to factory settings, I’ve cleaned the camera lens with cotton wool and methylated spirit but none of that worked. The only time when it takes perfectly clear pictures using the rear camera is when I tap on either the top left or top right corner of my phone a couple of times. But once i close the camera app and restart it the blurriness resurfaces. Could this be a hardware related problem that’s affecting my rear camera? Please help. — Godwin

Solution: Hi Godwin. As we have said to Jessica above, software troubleshooting is not the answer to everything. Having done all possible solutions an average user can do, we also think that it’s hardware issue. The camera assembly is a delicate component with a few moving parts so it can suffer from daily wear and tear. It’s impossible to tell exactly what may be wrong with the hardware without physically taking out the chip itself. The only thing that you can do at this time is to either have the phone repaired or simply replaced.

Problem #6: Galaxy S5 screen rotation stopped working after Android 6.0.1 update

A week and a half after installing Android 6.0.1 pushed OTA by Sprint, my screen rotation stopped working. The phone was not dropped or physically damaged. I took a landscape video, put the phone in my pocket, drove home, and went to watch it; when I turned the phone for the landscape orientation, the screen failed to rotate. I accessed the sensors menu (*#0*#) and the gyro test failed.

In addition, the values for the accelerometer do not seem to change. I wiped the partition cache, booted into safe mode, and factory reset the device. No changes.

I have an app to force the orientation when I want it, and since it won’t rotate the camera, I can just rotate photos and videos after I’ve taken them, but it is a nuisance. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you! — Steve

Solution: Hi Steve. It’s the first time that we’ve heard of Android Marshmallow messing up with an S6’s screen rotation as well as some of the sensors. If factory reset did not fix the problem, you can consider manually flashing a stock Android Lollipop ROM. This will put your phone at risk but it’s really the only way to go unless you can have the unit replaced.