What Android safe mode is, how to start it on Pixel, Samsung and other phones, and how to use it to find a problem app.
Safe mode is an Android start-up mode that runs the system with only the preinstalled apps; apps you downloaded are disabled until the next normal restart. If a problem such as crashes, freezes or pop-ups disappears in safe mode, a downloaded app is the likely cause.
On most phones: press and hold the power button (on some phones power and volume up), then touch and hold Power off or Restart on the screen until 'Reboot to safe mode' appears, and confirm.
Samsung Galaxy: open the power menu, touch and hold Power off, then tap Safe mode.
'Safe mode' is shown in the bottom corner of the screen while it is active.
Restart normally, then uninstall recently installed apps one at a time, restarting after each, until the problem is gone.
Restart the phone normally. If it starts in safe mode again, check that a volume button is not stuck.
Last updated: 2026-10-08
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