What to Do If a Phone or Tablet Is Slow or Not Working
When a phone or tablet becomes slow, freezes, or stops working, it is easy to worry that it is broken or that you have done something wrong. Usually neither is true. Most problems have a simple fix, and you can try them yourself in a few minutes.
This guide walks through the simple steps to try, in order, before you need any help. If you are helping an older parent get online, see our wider guide to helping a parent go online.
Quick answer
The first thing to try is turning the device off and on again, which fixes most problems. It is a real solution! Turning it off and on can stop any processes that are causing issues. If it is still slow, close any open apps, check your Wi-Fi, make sure there is enough free storage, and install any waiting updates. If none of that helps, a tech-help service can take a look.
1. Turn it off and on again
This simple step fixes a surprising number of problems. Hold the power button, turn the device off, wait about ten seconds, then turn it back on. It clears small glitches and often gets things running smoothly again.
2. Close apps you are not using
Having many apps open at once can slow a device down. Close the ones you are not using. On most phones and tablets you can see open apps and swipe them away. This frees up the device to run faster.
3. Check your Wi-Fi or signal
If only the internet is slow, the device itself may be fine. Check you are connected to Wi-Fi, and try turning the router off and on. Our guide on what Wi-Fi is explains how home internet works.
4. Make some space
A device that is nearly full can become slow. Deleting apps you no longer use, and old photos or videos you have backed up, can help. Make sure your photos are backed up first, as our guide on backing up explains.
5. Install any updates
Updates often fix slowness and problems. In Settings, look for a software update and install it if one is waiting. Keep the device charged and on Wi-Fi while it updates. It is a normal and safe thing to do.
When to get help
- The device will not turn on at all, even after charging for a while.
- The screen is cracked or not responding to touch.
- It stays slow after trying all the steps above.
- You see warning messages you do not understand. Our guide on free tech help for seniors lists places that can assist.
Before you finish
Download the free Family Tech Safety Checklist to help check phone safety, passwords, scam messages, emergency contacts and medical alarm details.
FAQ: A slow or frozen phone or tablet
Why has my device suddenly become slow?
Common reasons are too many apps open, low free storage, a waiting update, or simply needing a restart. Working through the steps above usually sorts it.
The screen is frozen. What do I do?
Hold the power button to turn it off, wait, then turn it on. If that does not work, your device may have a way to force a restart, which a family member or tech-help service can show you.
Will turning it off lose my photos or messages?
No. Turning a device off and on does not delete anything. Your photos, messages and apps are all still there when it restarts.
Is a slow device a sign of a virus?
On phones and tablets this is rare. Slowness is almost always storage, updates or too many open apps, not a virus. Be wary of any message claiming you have a virus, as that is often a scam.
Does a device get slower as it gets older?
It can, as apps and updates ask more of it. Keeping some free storage and installing updates helps. If it becomes a daily frustration, it may be time to consider a newer one.
