Samsung users with older Galaxy devices are facing a critical issue as a recent update has reportedly caused numerous phones to enter an endless bootloop, effectively rendering them unusable. This problem primarily affects the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series, as well as some other models like the Galaxy M51 and A90.
The Root of the Problem
The culprit behind this widespread malfunction appears to be an update to the SmartThings Framework app. Users who have installed the latest update are finding their devices stuck in a continuous restart cycle, unable to boot into the operating system.
Affected Devices
The issue has been reported on the following Samsung models:
- Galaxy S10 Lite
- Galaxy S10e
- Galaxy S10
- Galaxy S10+
- Galaxy S10 5G
- Galaxy Note 10
- Galaxy Note 10+
- Galaxy Note 10+ 5G
- Galaxy M51
- Galaxy A90
Preventive Measures
For those who haven't yet updated their devices, it's strongly recommended to disable automatic app updates in the Galaxy Store settings. This precautionary step could save you from potential data loss and the inconvenience of a non-functional device.
The Only Fix: Factory Reset
Unfortunately, for users already experiencing the bootloop issue, the only known solution is to perform a factory reset. This process will erase all data on the device, emphasizing the importance of regular backups.
To factory reset a device stuck in a bootloop:
- Press and hold the power button and volume up button simultaneously for about 7 seconds.
- Release the power button while continuing to hold the volume up button.
- This action should bring up the reboot menu, where you can select the factory reset option.
Lessons Learned
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with software updates, even from reputable brands like Samsung. It underscores the critical importance of backing up data regularly and being cautious about automatic updates, especially on older devices.
As of now, Samsung has not officially acknowledged or addressed this issue. Users of affected devices are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their data and device functionality.
