Software updates are meant to bring improvements, but sometimes, they create more problems than they solve. Users of older Samsung Galaxy models like the Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 10 are discovering this the hard way. A recent update to the SmartThings app has left their devices stuck in a frustrating bootloop.
This issue has surfaced across various platforms, with users reporting on forums like Reddit that their smartphones are rendered almost useless following the app update (version 2.2.02.11, October 2). Unfortunately, the bootloop isn’t confined to the Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 10 series; other affected models include the Galaxy A90 and M51. However, there’s an interesting anomaly—the Samsung Galaxy S10 Lite and Note 10 Lite seem to have been spared from the problem.
What Went Wrong with Samsung’s Update?
When you hear about a serious software glitch, the first assumption is usually that it’s tied to an operating system update. But this time, it’s different. The culprit isn’t Android itself but Samsung’s SmartThings app, which is primarily used to manage IoT devices and wearables. While Samsung regularly rolls out updates for their apps, this particular update has inadvertently bricked several devices, leaving users in an endless reboot cycle.
Factory Reset as a Solution
If you’re among those facing the dreaded bootloop, there is a solution—though it’s a double-edged sword. By accessing the recovery menu and performing a factory reset, users can bring their devices back to life. The catch? All local data will be wiped. Any photos, documents, or apps that haven’t been backed up to the cloud will be lost. This solution, while effective, is far from ideal.
Disable Automatic Updates
If you own an older Galaxy device and haven’t yet encountered the bootloop, you’re in a fortunate position. To avoid the issue altogether, your best bet is to disable automatic updates for apps in the Galaxy Store. While it won’t fix already bricked phones, it can prevent your device from suffering the same fate.
To turn off automatic updates, go to the Galaxy Store settings and toggle the switch for automatic updates. This small step can save you from a lot of future frustration.
Samsung’s Struggles with Recent Updates
The SmartThings update isn’t Samsung’s only recent hiccup. Earlier, the tech giant had to pull the One UI 6.1.1 update for its flagship Galaxy S23 Ultra due to a degradation in camera performance. It’s clear that the company is dealing with some growing pains in its software development, leading to more frequent and impactful glitches.
While users await a solution from Samsung, the best course of action is to stay cautious with updates—especially if you rely on an older Galaxy device.
