Why does my phone screen keep going black?

Why does my phone screen go black randomly?

Your Galaxy's screen timeout can be set from 15 seconds to 10 minutes, so check the delay if the display seems to turn off early. A longer timeout uses more battery power. On iPhone, delaying or preventing Auto-Lock may increase power use too.^{2, 5}

To keep a Galaxy screen on while you're looking at it, open Settings and search for Keep screen on while viewing, then select it. Smart stay may not be available on your device or software version.²

A Galaxy screen that doesn't turn off or on during calls may need its proximity sensor cleaned.²

What should I check if my Android screen keeps going black?

If your Samsung phone shows only a blank screen, its battery might be dead, or it might need a reset. Check the phone for damage. Look over the charger and charging cable for physical or liquid damage too, and remove accessories that may cover the port or buttons.¹

On an Android phone, lint, dust or corrosion in the charging port can block the electrical connection and slow charging. Clean the port. Dust and debris can collect around the buttons too. To clean the outside of the phone, gently wipe it with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe.³

When checking whether an Android phone needs charging, connect a known good charger and leave it plugged in for at least 30 minutes. Keep it connected even if the phone doesn't show any activity.³

How do I restart and charge a Samsung phone with a black screen?

To force your Samsung phone to restart, hold the Power or Side button and Volume down button together for 20 seconds. For a removable battery, take it out instead. Wait 60 seconds, then put it back. If you use biometric security, you'll need your backup password after restarting.¹

1. Connect the appropriate charger

   Charge for at least 1 hour. The battery charging indicator may take up to 10 minutes to appear on the screen.¹

2. Disconnect the phone

   Then hold the Power or Side button for 15 to 20 seconds to try turning it on.¹

3. If the display turns on

   The phone needs a charge. Turn it off and reconnect it to the appropriate charger until it's fully charged.¹

Why did my phone screen go black after a fall?

After an Android phone falls, the connection between its screen and main board might be loose. Drops, impacts or moisture can damage display connectors and parts on the main circuit board too. Look for cracks or screen separation. Check for liquid damage too.³

When should you take your phone to a shop?

Your Samsung phone needs service at a repair shop if its screen won't turn on after the restart and charging checks. On Android, a screen that stays black in Safe Mode or Recovery Mode points to a hardware display issue. Service is also required if a Samsung phone's liquid damage indicator has been exposed to liquid.^{1, 3}