From Engadget · Husain Parvez · · 1m 30s
Test your Samsung Galaxy before the repair shop
Samsung's built-in diagnostics let you check battery, camera, speakers and more without leaving home.
In brief
Samsung's built-in diagnostics let you check battery, camera, speakers and more without leaving home. Samsung Galaxy phones have a free diagnostics tool in Device care that tests hardware components before you pay for repairs or upgrades. Originally reported by Engadget.
Samsung has a hidden health check
If your Samsung Galaxy drains battery fast or drops calls, test the hardware before visiting a repair shop. Go to Settings, Device care, Diagnostics, then Phone diagnostics.
What the test covers
Samsung diagnostics test touch screen, cameras, microphones, speakers, buttons, sensors, Wi-Fi, mobile network, Bluetooth, SIM card, NFC, USB, charging and fingerprint reader depending on your model.
Some tests need your help
Certain tests run automatically, but others require you to act. The proximity test asks you to cover the front camera with your palm. Another plays audio and asks if you hear it.
Battery results matter most
Samsung rates battery as Normal, Weak or Bad. Weak means efficiency decreased from long-term use. Bad means battery life significantly degraded and Samsung recommends getting service advice.
Passing tests doesn't mean fast
A Galaxy passing all diagnostics may still feel slow. The tests check if components work, not CPU speed, internet connection or gaming performance. Those need separate benchmarks.
When to consider repair
If diagnostics pass but your phone is slow, outdated software, background apps or low storage may be to blame. Google says Android phones have problems when less than ten percent storage is free.
The main idea
Samsung Galaxy phones have a free diagnostics tool in Device care that tests hardware components before you pay for repairs or upgrades.
