A bootloop is when a device keeps restarting over and over and never finishes loading its operating system. It may show the maker's logo or startup animation, then reboot, again and again, so you can never reach the home screen. Bootloops usually follow a failed update, corrupted system files, a bad app or modification, or a hardware fault, and they need troubleshooting to break the cycle.
Why this happens
- A system or app update that failed or installed incorrectly, leaving the software unable to start.
- Corrupted system files or storage, sometimes after a crash, low battery shutdown or interrupted update.
- A faulty app, or on Android a bad modification like a failed root or custom software.
- Hardware problems, such as a failing storage chip, damaged battery or water damage.
- On computers, a bad driver, Windows update or failing drive can cause the same repeated restart.
Is this normal?
No. An occasional single restart is normal, but a continuous loop that never loads is a fault that needs fixing. It is not something a healthy device does.
Does it cause any problems?
While looping, the device is unusable and you cannot reach your data. Some fixes, such as a factory reset, erase everything, so a bootloop can risk data loss if you have no backup. The repeated restarting itself does not usually damage hardware.
How to fix or check it
- First, charge the device on a known good charger for at least 30 minutes, since a flat battery can mimic a bootloop.
- Force a restart. On many Android phones hold Power and Volume Down. On iPhone, quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button.
- If it still loops, boot into recovery mode. On Android, use the power and volume combination for your model, then try Wipe cache partition first.
- On Android, if it continues, a factory reset from recovery usually fixes software causes but erases your data.
- On iPhone, connect it to a computer and use recovery mode to Update first, which reinstalls the system without erasing, or Restore as a last resort.
- On Windows, use the recovery options to uninstall the latest update or run Startup Repair.
- If nothing works, the cause may be hardware, so contact the maker or a repair service.
Frequently asked questions
Will fixing a bootloop erase my data?
Not always. Charging, a forced restart, or wiping the cache keep your data. A factory reset or full restore does erase it, so try the gentler steps first.
What causes a bootloop after an update?
An update can install incorrectly or clash with an app or setting, leaving the system unable to start. Wiping the cache or reinstalling the system usually resolves it.
Can a bootloop fix itself?
Sometimes a one off loop clears after a full charge and forced restart. A persistent loop will not fix itself and needs recovery steps or repair.