Why your phone keeps turning off and how to fix it

You're texting a friend when it happens. Your phone suddenly shuts off. There doesn't seem to be any reason for the shutdown, so you turn it back on again. A few minutes later, it happens again. Why does my phone keep turning off, you wonder—and how can you stop it?

Asurion Experts keep your favorite devices running smoothly. Whether you need help updating an Android™ phone or want advice on extending the life of an iPhone® battery, we have a solution. Here's what to do if your phone experiences random shutdowns.

Common causes of phones turning off

Why does my phone keep turning on and off? It's likely due to one of these common smartphone problems:

• Battery issues: A malfunctioning battery (or one that's low on power) may cause your phone to shut down.
• Software glitches: Temporary bugs or a recently installed update can interfere with smartphone performance.
• Overheating problems: Phones used in extreme temperatures may shut down to protect internal components.
• Faulty apps: Recently installed, incompatible apps can cause battery glitches.
• Physical damage or loose battery connections: Damaged internal components may prevent the phone's battery from working properly.

How to troubleshoot a phone that turns off

Restarting your phone may be enough to fix a one-time random shutdown. Use the phone's Power button to turn off your device and turn it back on again. If you continue to experience issues, try these solutions.

Assessing battery health

Check the health of your phone's battery to see if it requires replacement. Based on your device type, follow the steps below.iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Battery > Battery Health & Charging.
3. If the battery requires service, take your phoneto a uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for a replacement battery. 

Android:

Most Android phones don't include a feature to view battery health. However, you can check overall usage to see if any apps are draining your battery. Consider removing any unnecessary apps that use excess battery resources.

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Battery > Battery usage.
3. Review the list of apps to learn which ones use the most battery. 

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Identifying problematic apps

Did you recently install a new app on your phone? If the phone starts shutting off and on afterward, the app may be the issue. Delete recently installed apps to see if that resolves the problem.

iPhone:

1. Tap and hold the app's icon.
2. Tap Remove App > Delete App. 

Android:

1. Open the Google Play™ store app.
2. Tap the Profile icon.
3. Tap Manage apps & devices > Manage.
4. Tap the name of the app to delete.
5. Tap Uninstall. 

Checking for system updates

Apple® and Android regularly release operating system updates to correct bugs and enhance user security. An update that corrects issues causing your phone to shut down may be available. 

iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Software Update. 
3. Install any available updates listed. 

Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap About device. 
3. Tap System update > Check for update. 
4. Tap Download if an update is available.
5. Tap Install Now.

Note that steps may vary slightly depending on what type of Android phone you own.

Inspecting physical condition

Smartphones are susceptible to damage from accidental drops and spilled liquids. Look closely at your device for signs of damage, such as cracked glass, loose ports, or an unresponsive touchscreen. If you spot any damage, have a tech expert take a look at it.

Managing overheating

Smartphones work best in temperatures between 32°F and 95°F. Using or storing the device in a place with excess heat or direct sunlight may cause it to randomly shut down. To fix the issue, move the phone to a cooler area. It should start working again once it cools off.

Performing phone resets

Restoring your device to its factory settings can resolve technical glitches that impact the battery. However, a factory reset erases your device's data, including stored media and contacts, so be sure to back up your device first.

iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap General > Reset.
3. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
4. Enter the iPhone's passcode when prompted.
5. Tap Erase. 

Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
3. Tap Erase all data.
4. Enter your device PIN if asked to.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset. 

Some Android phone models may use slightly different steps to initiate a factory reset.