Most people use their phone throughout their day, never putting it down. They use it to stay in touch with friends, partners, and coworkers, check their work-related emails, and even watch some streaming services.
Now, when something so important lags or slows down, this causes a lot of frustration and anxiety. A lot of people are quick to jump the gun and just blame it all on the device, but is it always the device’s fault?
Of course not!
Here are five such instances where users blame the phone, but it’s not really its fault.
1. Inability to access sites or platforms
Sometimes, the inability to access certain sites or platforms isn’t due to your phone but rather geo-restrictions. Certain websites or streaming services are restricted to specific regions. If you’re trying to access content that is blocked in your area, the solution is usually as simple as using a VPN.
While it’s uncommon, certain mobile brands like Huawei have faced restrictions that might prevent access to the popular platform. This issue isn’t the phone’s fault but stems from external policies and restrictions imposed by certain governments or companies. Knowing this can save you a lot of troubleshooting.
If you’re frequently encountering blocked content, downloading a VPN can help. A VPN masks your location, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions with ease. Not only will this grant you access to a broader range of content, but it also adds a layer of security to your online activities.
Choosing the right VPN to stay safe on Android or Apple mobile devices is crucial. Not all VPNs are created equal (some offer faster speeds, better security, or more reliable access to restricted content). Generally speaking, you should look for one with strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and servers in multiple countries to ensure the best experience possible.
2. Slow internet speeds
Have you ever noticed your internet slowing down during peak hours? That’s network congestion and it’s pretty common. When too many users are on the same network, the speed drops. Unfortunately, this isn’t something your phone can fix. Switching to a different network or using mobile data might be better.
How far you are from your router can also affect your internet speed. The farther you are, the weaker the signal and the slower the speed. If you’re experiencing lag, try moving closer to the router or getting a Wi-Fi extender to boost the signal throughout your space.
Sometimes, slow speeds are due to your data plan. Many plans have a data cap, and once you exceed it, your speed may be throttled. If this keeps happening, it might be time to review your data usage or consider upgrading to a plan that better suits your needs.
If slow internet speeds are a consistent issue, upgrading your plan or switching networks might be the answer. Higher-tier plans often come with faster speeds and higher data caps. Alternatively, switching to a more reliable network provider could significantly improve your overall mobile internet experience.
3. The battery drains too quickly
Your phone’s battery life can take a hit if you have too many apps running in the background. These apps, even when not in use, can consume a surprising amount of power. To extend battery life, close unused apps and disable unnecessary background processes. This simple step can make a big difference.
If you’re in an area with poor network coverage, your phone works harder to find a signal, which can drain your battery faster. This isn’t your phone’s fault (it’s just how it operates). To save battery, switch to airplane mode in low-signal areas or use Wi-Fi if available.
High screen brightness and certain settings, like push notifications or location services, can also contribute to fast battery drain. Adjusting your screen brightness, turning off unnecessary notifications, and disabling location services when not needed can help conserve battery and keep your phone running longer throughout the day.
Most phones come with built-in battery-saving modes designed to extend battery life when you’re running low. These modes reduce performance and limit background activity to conserve power. If you’re constantly finding yourself with a low battery, activating battery-saving mode can be a lifesaver, especially in critical moments.
Of course, the battery quality depends on the phone, and this is why some people prefer to go with a SIM-only contract until they can research the battery capacity of all the devices available before setting their mind on a single, specific contract. This gives them more time and freedom to choose their device in peace and not have to factor the provider contract into the equation.
4. Apps not working correctly
Sometimes, when an app isn’t working, it’s not your phone’s fault (it’s the app’s servers). Server outages can affect many users at once, rendering the app temporarily unusable. Before you start troubleshooting your device, check online to see if the app is experiencing widespread issues. This could save you a lot of time.
Certain apps work best on a stable Wi-Fi connection, especially those involving streaming or large data transfers. If an app isn’t functioning correctly, check your Wi-Fi connection first. A weak or unstable connection can cause apps to lag, crash, or not load certain features properly.
Sometimes, other apps running in the background can interfere with the one you’re using. These background processes consume resources and cause the app to slow down or crash. Try closing unused apps or restarting your phone to free up resources, which may resolve the issue.
If an app is consistently giving you trouble, it might be time for a reinstall or update. Bugs and glitches can build up over time, and developers often release updates to fix them. Reinstalling apps can clear out any issues and give you a fresh start with the latest version.
5. Overheating issues
Running intensive apps, like games or video editing software, can cause your phone to heat up quickly. This isn’t a fault with your phone; it’s just the result of your device working hard. To prevent overheating, take breaks during heavy use and close any apps that are no longer needed.
External factors like direct sunlight or being in a hot environment can also cause your phone to overheat. Your phone is sensitive to temperature, and leaving it in a hot car or under the sun for too long can lead to overheating. Keep your phone in a cool, shaded place whenever possible.
Using your phone while it’s charging can cause it to heat up more than usual. The battery is already generating heat as it charges, and adding the strain of using the phone only makes it worse. To avoid this, let your phone charge undisturbed or use it sparingly while plugged in.
If your phone feels like it’s overheating, give it a break. Letting your phone cool down periodically can prevent damage to the long-term battery and internal components. Simply turning off the phone for a few minutes or removing it from a hot environment can help decrease the temperature.
While there are many things that can go wrong with your phone, the device won’t always be at fault
If your internet is slowing down, you have a hard time accessing a site or a platform, your internet speed is slow, or your battery drains too quickly, there are some scenarios where it could be your phone’s fault, but it often won’t be the case. Understanding what went wrong can help you look for a solution instead of just casting blame and passively accepting yoru fate.
