How to Fix an Android Phone That Is Freezing
By Tammy Columbo
If your Android device is freezing and exhibiting persistent issues with apps and screens, perform a master reset on the device to restore the original software and settings. The Android operating system is installed with a rollback feature that enables you to return the device to factory defaults. The preferred method to reset an Android device is to run the master reset feature from the Backup & Reset or Storage settings menu, depending on available menu options. However, you can also perform the alternate method by pressing a combination of keys if you cannot access the device menus.
Preferred Method
Step 1
Press the Menu key to display the Android device menu, then tap the “Applications” icon to open the Apps screen.
Step 2
Tap the “Settings” icon to open the Settings menu, then tap the “Backup & Reset” or “Storage" tab. The corresponding settings menu opens.
Step 3
Scroll to the bottom of the screen and tap the “Factory Data Reset” or “Reset Phone" option. A warning screen displays the message that all settings and software saved on the device’s internal memory will be removed. This screen also includes the “Erase SD Card” or “Erase All Data” option. Tap this check box to reformat the SD card during the master reset, or leave the check box empty to keep the files saved on your memory card.
Step 4
Tap “Reset Phone.” The master reset takes a few minutes to complete. Afterwards, the device either reboots automatically or a dialog box appears, prompting you to press an option to reboot the device. When the device reboots, original factory settings and software are restored.
Alternate Method - HTC One X
Step 1
Power off the phone. Remove and reinsert the battery to ensure that the phone is off.
Step 2
Press and hold the Volume Down key, then press the Power button while continuing to hold the Volume Down key.
Step 3
Release both buttons when the Android Recovery menu displays.
Step 4
Press the Volume Down key to scroll to the “Factory Reset” option. Press the Power key to select the option. The data wipe is performed and the master reset completes. The Reboot System Now option appears.
Step 5
Press the Power button to reboot the device. Factory settings are restored.
References
Tips
- The Factory Data Reset option is available from the Privacy settings menu in versions of Android prior to Ice Cream Sandwich, version 4.0.
Warnings
- All personal accounts and settings will be deleted from the device during the master reset process. Back up all data, such as your contacts and sync settings, before performing the reset if possible.
- The key combination to open the Android Recovery menu varies by device model and manufacturer. Check your device user manual for the correct key combination.
- Information in these steps applies to the Android operating system, version 4.0 and above. Instructions may vary slightly or significantly for other versions of Android.
Writer Bio
Based in the live music capital of the world, Tammy Columbo continues to work in the information technology industry as she has done for more than 10 years. While living in Austin, Columbo has contributed to high profile projects for the State of Texas, Fortune 500 technology companies and various non-profit organizations. Columbo began writing professionally in 2009.