It sounds really frustrating to have your S24 Ultra screen acting up like that – flashing and looking scrambled is definitely not normal. You're smart to be concerned about it getting worse, especially with all your photos on the device.
Here's what you need to know and what to do, focusing on protecting your data and addressing the screen issue before your Samsung Care+ expires.
Is It Likely to Get Worse?
Yes, it's quite possible. Screen issues like flickering and scrambling can indicate a hardware defect. While a quick restart might clear it up temporarily, if it's a deeper hardware problem, it's very likely to reoccur and could progressively worsen, eventually making your phone unusable. Software glitches can sometimes cause similar symptoms, but persistent issues after a restart often point towards hardware.
Protect Your Photos: Back Up Immediately!
This is the most crucial step. Don't wait for the screen to completely fail. Back up your photos right away!
Here are the best ways to do it:
* Samsung Smart Switch (to PC/Mac): This is highly recommended for a comprehensive backup.
* Download and install Samsung Smart Switch on your computer.
* Connect your S24 Ultra to your computer using a USB-C cable.
* Follow the prompts in Smart Switch to back up all your data, including photos, videos, messages, and app data.
* Google Photos/Google Drive: This is great for photos and videos.
* Open the Google Photos app on your phone.
* Tap your profile picture (top right).
* Select Photos settings > Backup and ensure "Backup" is turned on. Your photos will upload to your Google account.
* You can also manually upload specific files to Google Drive for extra safety.
* External Storage: If you have a USB-C flash drive or an adapter, you can connect it directly to your phone and manually copy files.
* Connect the USB-C drive to your phone.
* Open the My Files app on your phone.
* Navigate to your photos (usually in "Internal storage" > "DCIM" > "Camera").
* Select the photos you want to copy, then choose "Copy" or "Move" to your connected USB drive.
Troubleshoot Potential Software Issues
While it sounds like a hardware problem, it's worth trying these steps. Samsung will likely ask if you've done them anyway.
* Restart your phone: You've already done this, but it's the first step for any phone glitch.
* Check in Safe Mode: This helps determine if a third-party app is causing the problem.
* Press and hold the power button until the "Power off" screen appears.
* Tap and hold "Power off" until the "Safe mode" option appears.
* Tap "Safe mode."
* If the flickering/scrambling stops in Safe Mode, a recently installed app is likely the culprit. You can then try uninstalling apps one by one, starting with the most recent ones, until the issue resolves.
* Disable Adaptive Brightness: Sometimes this feature can cause screen oddities. Go to Settings > Display and toggle off Adaptive brightness.
* Check for software updates: Make sure your phone is running the latest software version. Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install.
Contact Samsung Support Immediately
If the issue persists after troubleshooting or if you strongly suspect a hardware problem, contact Samsung Support without delay.
* Clearly explain the issue: Describe the flashing and scrambling, how often it happens, and what steps you've already taken (restarting, Safe Mode check, etc.).
* Mention your Samsung Care+: Emphasize that you have Care+ and want to get this sorted before it expires. This is key to ensuring it's covered.
* Be prepared for next steps: They'll guide you through further diagnostics and then arrange for a repair or replacement if it's a covered hardware defect. You'll likely need to send your phone in, which is why your data backup is so important!
By following these steps, you'll protect your precious photos and get a solid plan in place to address the screen issue under your Samsung Care+ coverage.
