Screen flickering is one of the most frustrating issues smartphone users encounter. Whether you’re using an Android or an iPhone, screen flickering can be caused by various factors, including hardware issues, software glitches, or even app conflicts. If left unresolved, it can worsen over time, leading to a completely unresponsive screen or permanent display damage. Fortunately, with the help of phone diagnostic software, you can quickly identify the root cause of the problem and take appropriate measures to fix it.
What Causes Screen Flickering?
Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand what causes screen flickering. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Software Bugs and Glitches
Your phone’s software plays a crucial role in how the display functions. Bugs in the operating system or conflicts between system apps can cause your screen to flicker intermittently.
2. Incompatible or Malfunctioning Apps
Certain third-party apps may not be optimized for your device’s display settings, causing screen flickering. If the flickering happens only when using a specific app, that app is likely the culprit.
3. Display Driver Issues
The display driver acts as a bridge between your phone’s hardware and software. If it becomes corrupted or outdated, you may experience flickering problems.
4. Hardware Damage
Physical damage to the screen, loose display connectors, or a failing GPU can also cause flickering. Dropping your phone or exposing it to moisture can damage internal components, leading to display problems.
5. Overheating
Excessive heat can impact your phone’s performance and cause the screen to flicker. This often happens during prolonged gaming sessions or when using the phone under direct sunlight.
6. Auto-Brightness and Adaptive Display Settings
Your phone’s brightness settings, such as adaptive brightness or auto-brightness, might cause flickering if they do not function correctly.
7. Battery and Power Issues
A failing battery, loose power connections, or a malfunctioning power IC can cause unstable voltage supply to the screen, leading to flickering.
How to Diagnose Screen Flickering Issues
If your phone’s screen is flickering, you should diagnose the problem before attempting any fixes. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using phone diagnostic software. These tools run system checks, identify potential hardware or software issues, and suggest solutions.
Best Phone Diagnostic Software for Screen Flickering
- Phone Doctor Plus – Offers detailed tests for screen, battery, and hardware components.
- TestM – A free diagnostic app that evaluates screen responsiveness, display issues, and touch accuracy.
- Device Info HW – Checks for display driver malfunctions and hardware failures.
- Phone Check and Test – Provides a complete report on phone performance, including screen diagnostics.
- Samsung Members (for Samsung users) – Runs built-in diagnostics to identify screen issues.
Steps to Diagnose Using Phone Diagnostic Software
- Download and Install a Diagnostic App – Choose one from the list above and install it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Run a Screen Test – Open the app and navigate to the screen test section. It will check for dead pixels, screen responsiveness, and flickering patterns.
- Analyze Results – The software will generate a report highlighting any detected issues. If the problem is software-related, the app may suggest fixes.
- Check for Hardware Issues – Some diagnostic tools can indicate whether the flickering is due to hardware malfunctions.
How to Fix Screen Flickering Issues
Once you have diagnosed the problem, you can try the following fixes to stop the screen from flickering.
1. Restart Your Phone
A simple restart can clear temporary software glitches causing the flickering. Hold down the power button and reboot your device to see if the issue persists.
2. Update Your Phone’s Software
Outdated firmware can cause screen flickering. Check for software updates in your phone’s settings:
- Android: Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
3. Boot into Safe Mode
Safe Mode disables third-party apps, allowing you to check if an app is causing the issue.
- Android: Press and hold the power button, then tap and hold “Power Off” until “Safe Mode” appears.
- iPhone: iPhones don’t have a Safe Mode, but you can uninstall recent apps to see if the problem resolves.
If the flickering stops in Safe Mode, a third-party app is likely the cause. Uninstall recently downloaded apps one by one to identify the culprit.
4. Turn Off Auto-Brightness and Adaptive Display
Disabling automatic brightness adjustments can help stabilize the screen:
- Android: Go to Settings > Display > Adaptive Brightness and turn it off.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Display & Brightness and disable Auto-Brightness.
5. Disable Developer Options (If Enabled)
Some users enable developer settings for customization, but this can sometimes interfere with the display.
- Android: Go to Settings > Developer Options and turn off Show Surface Updates and Hardware Overlays.
6. Check for Overheating Issues
If your phone gets too hot, let it cool down before using it again. Avoid using power-hungry apps and keep your phone away from direct sunlight.
7. Reset Display Settings
Resetting display settings to default can resolve flickering issues:
- Android: Go to Settings > Display > Reset Display Settings.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings.
8. Check for Hardware Damage
If you’ve dropped your phone recently, inspect the screen for physical damage. If the flickering is due to a loose display connector, you may need professional repair.
9. Perform a Factory Reset
If none of the above solutions work, a factory reset may be necessary. This will erase all data, so back up your files first.
- Android: Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Erase All Data (Factory Reset).
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
10. Seek Professional Repair
If the issue persists after trying all solutions, take your phone to an authorized service center for professional diagnosis and repair.
Final Thoughts
Screen flickering can be an annoying and disruptive problem, but diagnosing and fixing it promptly can prevent further damage. Using phone diagnostic software, you can pinpoint whether the issue is software-related or due to hardware failure. While some solutions, like adjusting display settings and uninstalling faulty apps, can be done at home, persistent flickering may require professional repair. Don’t ignore the problem—fix it before it gets worse!
