So, your phone is stuck in an infinite boot loop. Every time the Apple logo comes around again, or you get a successful boot, you think it's finally going to work. But then, the screen goes black... again. This issue has a wide variety of causes. But that just means more chances at getting a fix!
The Basics
Before undertaking any of the more time-consuming solutions below, here are a few fundamentals to get you started.
- Restarting your phone. Press and hold the Power button for 30 seconds. Some Pixels require you to tap Restart afterward.
- Updating your phone. Some bugs are addressed by Android updates.
- To check for updates, go to your Settings > System > System Update.
Physical Obstructions
Cases or other accessories can interfere with normal use of your phone's buttons, or other components.
- Remove any physical accessories. Screen protector is unlikely to be at fault, (unless you are also getting unexpected touch) so that can stay.
- Depress all your buttons and check for normal function.Do they feel like they are working properly? Do they actually do what they are supposed to?
Additionally, the power button has been known to stick on its own. Try prying the button up with a spudger or toothpick.
Inconsistent Power
The phone’s battery could be degrading. Plug your phone into power and check if it still restarts. If the problem ceases while plugged into power, replace the battery. Find your Pixel model's battery replacement guide for more details.
Full Storage
If your phone’s storage is maxing out, this could impact the operating system’s ability to function.
- To check your storage capacity and use, open the Settings app > Storage > Free up space.
You can view each category to see what is taking the most space. From there, I suggest removing some unused apps, videos, or pictures to free up space.
The Google Pixel has the option to free up storage automatically when it nears the limit.
- This is set by going to the Settings app > Storage > Free up space > Overflow menu icon ⋮ on the top right > Settings > Smart storage.
Faulty Third-Party App
Boot into Safe Mode to check if your phone’s sound is working. Recently installed third-party apps may cause your phone to reboot — being in Safe Mode prevents third-party apps from running automatically. If the issue is resolved while in Safe Mode, uninstall the app or game causing the issue.
- To boot into Safe Mode, press the power button. After a few seconds hold the phone's volume down button. Continue to hold it down until you see Safe mode on the screen.
- To uninstall an app, navigate to the Google Play Store app > Profile icon on the top right > Manage apps & devices > Manage. Once there, tap on the app you think is causing the issue. Tap Uninstall to remove it.
- Once you’re done, exit Safe Mode by holding down the power button for 30 seconds. Some Pixel phones require you to tap Restart.
Firmware Fault
A factory reset is the last resort regarding software bugs as this will completely wipe the phone of all personal data and reinstall the phone’s operating system. Since factory resets will completely wipe your phone’s data, make sure you have a backup of your phone before attempting this.
- To backup your phone, open your phone’s Settings app > Google Backup > Back up now.
Google has a repair tool that may not require a full reset. It’s worth checking out before needing to perform a full reset.
- Plug your phone into the computer using a USB C cable and visit the Update and Software Repair tool website.
If the above “Update and Software Repair” tool does not work, a full factory reset is required.
- To perform a factory reset, power off your phone by holding down the power button.
- With the phone powered off, hold the power button. While continuing to hold power, start holding the volume down button.
- You can release it when the screen shows “bootloader”. Navigate using the volume down button until you highlight "Recovery Mode". Use the power button to select
- Press the power button and volume up button at the same time. Navigate using the volume down button to select “Wipe Data/Factory Reset”. Use the power button to select.
- Press volume down to highlight “Yes” and use the power button to select.
- This factory reset process will take some time to complete.
- Finally, restore the backup by logging into your Google account from the Settings app.
Related Pages
- Google Pixel Not Charging
- Google Pixel Unresponsive Black Screen
- Google Pixel Lines on Screen
- Google Pixel Camera Blurry
- Google Pixel Overheating
- Google Pixel Won't Turn On
- Google Pixel No Sound
- Google Pixel Frozen Screen
3 commentaires
I have had this issue with my Pixel 4a 5g. After trying everything this and other articles are suggesting I took it to a certified technician who found no HW fault, but the phone still didn't work. They I talked to another technician, who said this is a typical Pixel issue caused by the processor. The processor is very likely lost its firm connection with the motherboard, due to a drop, wet conditions or heat. I couldn't recall any of these happening, but the thing still turns on and off. It is virtually non-reparable. As I understand it this is an issue with the production. My phone is just out of warranty... So, now this is a great donor phone for someone, who doesn't need the motherboard. Sad story for the Pixel.
Gerry - Réponse
Same situation here. I installed a new battery, factory reset, downgraded from android 13 to 12. No resolution.
David Milbauer - Réponse
Same here, my Pixel 4 kept restarting. It would shutdown right before the lock screen and restart continuously (plugged via USB or via wireless charging does not change the outcome).
I tried changing the battery but it had no effect.
I also tried removing the power button to make sure it was not stuck yet the phoone keeps restarting even without the power button...
No resolution, buying a new phone.
Alex - Réponse