Check these first
Do not assume the cause from the symptom alone. First determine whether the issue affects the whole phone, one app, one connection, or one accessory. Work from low-impact checks toward recovery or repair.
- Take a screenshot and see whether the defect appears in the saved image
- Recall recent brightness, color, accessibility, or developer-setting changes
- Note any recent drop, pressure, overheating, or liquid exposure
Narrow down the cause
| Scope of the issue | Where to check next |
|---|---|
| Only one app is affected | Check app permissions, updates, storage, cache, and reinstall options |
| The whole phone is affected | Check restart, system updates, free storage, and system settings |
| Other devices have the same issue | Check the network, service, charger, or accessory |
| The issue began after a drop or liquid exposure | Avoid repeated power or charging attempts and contact official support |
See the troubleshooting flow
Safe step-by-step process
Complete one step at a time and test after each change. Do not change several settings at once.
- 1Restart the phone to clear a temporary graphics or display-service error.
- 2Review adaptive brightness, color correction, night mode, refresh-rate, and accessibility display settings.
- 3If it happens in one app, update the app and return its video or graphics options to standard settings.
- 4Install system and app updates and make sure the phone has adequate free storage.
- 5Open the screenshot on another device. If the artifact is in the image, software rendering is more likely; if not, display hardware is more likely.
- 6Stop using the phone and seek repair if lines are permanent, the display is lifting, or the issue followed impact or severe heat.
Actions to avoid
- Pressing or twisting the display to make a line disappear
- Continuing heavy use while the phone is unusually hot
- Proceeding through erase or account prompts when the display cannot be read reliably
Prevent the issue from returning
- Keep the operating system and major apps updated
- Avoid pressure, impact, and prolonged high-temperature environments
Frequently asked questions
What if my screen looks different?
Menu names and locations vary by OS, manufacturer, model, region, and software version. Use the Settings search field and check the manufacturer guide for your exact model.
When should I stop troubleshooting?
Stop as soon as the issue is fixed. Change one setting at a time so you can identify what solved the problem and reverse it if necessary.
What should I do if the issue remains?
Record how to reproduce it, verify your backup, and contact the manufacturer, carrier, or app provider most closely related to the problem.