Samsung Galaxy Users Report Serious New Display Problem

Samsung Galaxy users are facing a concerning display issue following the recent April security patch update. Numerous complaints have emerged regarding a persistent green line appearing on the screen. The problem seems to be affecting various models, including the Galaxy S21 Ultra, S21 FE, Z Flip 3, M21, and M52 5G, according to reports from Android Authority and SamMobile.

While users have not reported any touch input or functionality problems, the presence of the green line suggests a potential hardware issue, which could result in costly repairs. Ricky Panesar, founder of iCorrect.co.uk, a repair expert, believes that this is likely OLED damage. He noted that while previous software updates have resolved green tint issues in older Samsung and Apple smartphones, a patch has never been used to address a green line fault like this.

Panesar referred to similar display problems experienced by Samsung, Apple, Motorola, and OnePlus devices released in 2020 and 2021. These issues were attributed to the quality of screen materials, potentially affected by manufacturing delays caused by the pandemic. However, the current green line fault appears to be distinct, with users reporting a visible line on the screen rather than an overall color shift.

The exact cause of the problem remains elusive, as some users have noticed the green line immediately after installing a software update, while others have experienced it randomly after heavy usage, with the line persisting even after a reboot.

This is not the first time Samsung has faced display-related issues. In July 2023, the company offered free screen replacements for the Galaxy S20 and Note 20 models due to complaints of green and pink lines appearing on the display.

Reddit users have been actively discussing this "known issue" in various threads over the past year. Additionally, Galaxy S21 users have taken to Samsung's support forums to report the display problem. It is currently unclear whether Samsung is aware of the green line display issue, as no official response has been provided.

However, Samsung India has taken steps to address the problem by offering free screen replacements for affected phones. According to Tarun Vats on X, Samsung support confirmed that they will replace displays for Galaxy S20, S21, Note 20, and S22 owners.

The offer is valid for devices purchased within the last three years and includes a replacement battery and kit. Indian users have until April 30th to take advantage of this offer, but it remains uncertain if Samsung will extend the same offer to users in other countries.

As of now, there is no software solution available for the green line display problem, as evidenced by Samsung India's willingness to provide free hardware repairs. It remains to be seen if Samsung will expand this offer to more affected users globally.

Source: FORBES