Galaxy Devices Stuck in Bootloop Following App Update (Updated)

Select Galaxy owners are having a not-so-fun day today, with phones apparently stuck in endless bootloops following a SmartThings framework system app update. Devices affected include the Galaxy S10 series, as well as the Galaxy Note 10 series. The full list of devices can be found below.

With system app updates, it’s entirely possible for system files to become corrupted following the introduction of new files, which can cause the bootloop issue that we’re seeing here. The biggest problem for owners is, there’s no apparent fix at this time. The only remedy to the issue is a complete wipe of the device, with no way to backup or recover your data. That could a huge headache for users.

Devices Reported to be Affected

• S10
• S10e
• S10+
• S10 5G
• Note 10
• Note 10+
• Note 10+ 5G

Given the nature of the problem, it seems fair to assume Samsung has a responsibility to correct it. We have no idea how they intend to do that, but we will keep you posted if we hear anything. In the meantime, we recommend keeping an eye on the Galaxy subreddits and official Samsung support forum. This is likely where Samsung would make any plans official.

If you own one of these devices, I’d maybe hold off on any system app updates for a bit, just to be safe.

Update (Oct. 4): Samsung has confirmed the bootloop issue on older Galaxy devices with the following statement.

We are aware that a limited number of Galaxy smartphones running on Android 12 are rebooting continuously during an update to the latest version of the SmartThings app.

Upon discovery, we immediately suspended the update and are working to resolve the issue. Affected customers can contact the Samsung Contact Center to receive support for their devices.

As Samsung says, affected customers can reach out to Samsung customer care directly to receive support. By doing so, it’s reported that a data wipe of your device will not be necessary. Should you want to resolve the issue on your own, then a data wipe appears to be the only route.

Super unfortunate for anyone affected.

// reddit [2]