Built-in Diagnostic Tools on Android
Android phones come with several built-in diagnostic tools that allow users to check the functionality of their device and troubleshoot problems. Here are some of the most common built-in diagnostic tools you can use on Android phones:
1. Secret Diagnostic Codes
Android devices come with secret codes that can be dialed from the phone app to access diagnostic menus. These codes vary by manufacturer but generally allow you to test various hardware components.
Access the Diagnostic Menu
Open your phone dialer and enter `*#0*#` (works on many Samsung phones). This brings up a diagnostic menu with options to test the display, touch screen, vibration, sensors, and more.
Other Useful Codes
- *#06#` – Displays the phone’s IMEI number.
- *#*#4636#*#*` – Shows detailed information about phone usage, battery health, Wi-Fi status, and more.
2. Battery Usage & Diagnostics
To check the health of your battery: Go to Settings > Battery or Battery Usage. This shows how apps are using the battery, allowing you to optimize power consumption.
Some Samsung models have a built-in diagnostic for battery health in Device Care (Settings > Battery and Device Care).
3. Developer Options
By enabling Developer Options, you can access more advanced phone diagnostic software features for testing and tweaking performance. Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information, then tap on Build Number seven times to unlock Developer Options.
Once enabled, Developer Options can give you access to tools for testing memory, analyzing app behavior, and debugging your phone.
4. Google Play Store’s “Device Health Services”
Some Android devices use Google’s Device Health Services to monitor battery and performance. It provides information on how to improve battery life and optimize phone usage.
5. Safe Mode
Safe Mode is a built-in diagnostic tool that disables all third-party apps and services. It allows you to troubleshoot if a specific app is causing problems. To activate Safe Mode, press and hold the power button, then tap and hold Power Off until the Safe Mode option appears.
6. Diagnostic Apps from Manufacturers
Many phone manufacturers, like Samsung and Xiaomi, provide additional diagnostic tools.
Samsung: The Samsung Members app offers diagnostic tools for testing battery, display, sensors, and other hardware components.
Xiaomi: Use the MIUI Diagnostic Tool built into Xiaomi phones, accessible through Settings > About Phone > System Diagnostics.
7. Built-in File Manager Diagnostics
Android’s built-in file manager, Files by Google, has options to clean junk files and free up space, which can help diagnose storage issues.
These tools allow users to self-diagnose potential issues without the need for third-party apps or professional support. Depending on the manufacturer, you may have additional options for diagnostics or hardware testing.
Built-in Diagnostic Tools on iPhones
iPhones come with several built-in diagnostic tools and features that help users and technicians troubleshoot issues with hardware, software, and performance. Here are some of the main diagnostic tools available on iPhones.
1. Apple Support App
The Apple Support app allows users to run diagnostics on their iPhones. You can initiate a remote diagnostic session with Apple support, which helps in troubleshooting various hardware and software problems. Here’s how to use it.
Download the Apple Support app from the App Store. Open the app and navigate to Device Diagnostics or contact Apple Support to start a diagnostic session.
2. Battery Health
iPhones have a built-in battery health checker that lets you see how well your battery is performing and whether it needs replacement. Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
This shows the maximum capacity of the battery and whether the iPhone is performing optimally or if performance management is applied due to battery degradation.
3. Analytics & Data
iPhones automatically collect diagnostic and usage data, which can help identify performance issues, app crashes, and system bugs. To access and view this data: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Analytics & Improvements > Analytics Data. Here, you’ll find detailed logs on app performance, system errors, and more.
4. Field Test Mode (Signal Strength Diagnostics)
The iPhone has a secret diagnostic mode called Field Test Mode, which allows users to check detailed signal information, including the actual signal strength in decibels (dBm).
To access Field Test Mode: Open the Phone app and dial `*3001#12345#*`, then press Call. This brings up technical details about the cellular network, signal strength, and more.
5. Apple Diagnostics (DFU/Recovery Mode)
Apple Diagnostics (formerly known as Apple Hardware Test) can be used to check for hardware problems with your iPhone. If you visit an Apple Store or an authorized service provider, they can run these diagnostics. Additionally, you can perform certain types of diagnostics yourself by using Recovery Mode or DFU (Device Firmware Update) Mode:
Recovery Mode: Useful for diagnosing software issues, freezing, and boot loops. Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC and open iTunes or Finder, then follow the steps to enter Recovery Mode.
DFU Mode: Used for deeper-level software issues. It allows the device to be restored from scratch, bypassing the OS and bootloader.
6. Performance Monitoring
iPhones also have a built-in way to monitor app performance. Go to Settings > Battery to see a breakdown of battery usage by app. This lets you identify apps that are draining battery excessively or performing poorly.
You can also monitor storage performance by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, where you can analyze how much space each app is using and see recommendations to optimize storage.
7. Self-Diagnosis via “Settings”
The Settings app itself provides several ways to check and troubleshoot iPhone performance.
Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Diagnostics: In Settings > Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, you can run connectivity checks, troubleshoot disconnections, and reset the network.
System Updates: Outdated software can lead to performance issues, and system updates often come with bug fixes and diagnostics. Check for updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
8. Siri Diagnostics
Though not as advanced as Apple’s diagnostic tools, Siri can sometimes help with troubleshooting by performing basic commands, checking settings, and giving tips.
9. App-Specific Diagnostic Features
Some Apple apps, like Safari, offer limited built-in diagnostics. Go to Settings > Safari to clear history, disable problematic features, and view crash reports.
These diagnostic tools, along with Apple’s remote support options, give users robust options for self-checking their devices without needing to visit an Apple Store.
