How do I enable and exit safe mode? (Android 9.0)

Valid for

• Android 9.0 Pie

Solution

Downloaded apps may affect the performance of your device or cause it to behave unpredictably. Use safe mode to check whether a downloaded app causes the problem.

In safe mode, your device starts with only the software and apps that are installed when you purchased your device. If the device performance improves in safe mode, it’s likely that one or more downloaded apps are negatively affecting the device. You can exit safe mode by restarting the device and uninstall the apps you suspect cause the problem. It's also possible to uninstall apps from inside safe mode. If the problem is recent and you’re not sure which app is causing the problem, you can start by uninstalling the most recent app.

Enter safe mode

1. While the device is powered on, press and hold down the power key.
2. In the pop-up menu, touch and hold Power off until the Reboot to safe mode message appears.
3. Tap OK to restart in safe mode.

Exit safe mode

When in safe mode, restart the device. If restarting the devices doesn't exit safe mode, try the steps below. Check if the problem is solved before moving to the next step.

1. Remove any protective case. A case might interfere with one of the physical keys of the device and prevent the device from starting properly.
2. Make sure that the volume key, power key, and camera key respond properly, and aren't stuck in one position.
3. Make sure that you just tap Power off when you restart your device. Don't hold it down. Holding down the Power off may restart some devices in safe mode.
4. Check for new software wirelessly in your device:
   • Settings → System → Advanced → Software update → SYSTEM.
     Note: Some updates aren't available for wireless download. You will need to check for new software using a computer and the Xperia Companion computer app.

5. If your Xperia device has the latest software and the problem still persists, try to perform a factory data reset on your device.

   • WARNING! All personal content on the internal memory of your device gets deleted when you perform a factory data reset. You can backup content that you want to keep. To back up your content, you can copy it to a computer using the Xperia Companion computer application. Content on an external memory card (SD card) is not deleted.