Your Guide to the Black Screen of Death Galaxy Z Flip 6 Phones

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 was released in 2024 alongside the Z Fold 6, the Watch 7, and the new Galaxy Ring. As Samsung's contribution to the ever-growing flip phone market, it features enhanced durability and the first 50MP camera on a Z Flip device.

The Flip 6's cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip delivers a long-lasting battery and significant performance improvements compared with previous models in the series. This processor also supports Galaxy AI features, including Live Translations and Chat Assist courtesy of Google Gemini.

These upgraded features mean that the device was launched for a starting price of $1,099, $100 more than its predecessor. However, Samsung troubleshooting forums remain filled with complaints about a key software issue – a completely unresponsive inner screen.

So, if you've invested in this foldable device and are experiencing the exact same problem, what can you do to tackle it? In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about the Flip 6's 'black screen of death' and the steps you should take if the issue persists.

What is the Black Screen of Death?

Like other devices in the Flip range, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 features two displays: the outer cover screen, or FlexWindow, and the main 6.7-inch inner screen. The 3.4-inch cover screen allows you to do everything from sending messages using Galaxy AI to seeing photo previews, without needing to unfold your phone.

The main display is sharp and bright, with a 2640 x 1080 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 2,600 nits of peak brightness. The black screen of death occurs on this inner display, causing your Flip 6 screen to suddenly go black and become unresponsive even when unlocked.

In many cases, the cover display remains working, but won't allow users to access the device's key apps and functions. However, if you have the Always On Display feature activated, you'll still be able to see the time, date, missed calls, and important notifications even when the screen is black.

What Causes the Black Screen of Death?

From software issues to damaged hardware, several different causes can trigger the same issue: the black screen of death. Here's why your Galaxy Z Flip 6 display may not be working as it should:

Glitches

Fortunately, the black screen of death isn't always a permanent problem that requires expensive repairs. A temporary bug may cause the screen to glitch, often due to server issues, incorrect software programming, or corrupted files.

However, Samsung should quickly detect and fix these issues until the screen works – you may just need to launch the new updates by restarting your Z Flip 6.

Old Software

Another problem that may cause glitches is old software. As well as making systems vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches, outdated software won't be compatible with your new Z Flip 6 device. This can trigger issues with the hardware, including a black screen.

Most Samsung Galaxy phones update software and apps automatically to ensure that your device is always running on the latest One UI system. However, to keep things running smoothly, you may need to manually install a system update. To do this, simply open Settings, select the Software Update option, then click Download and Install.

Hardware Fault

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 is the first flip phone in the US to have an IP48 water resistance rating, allowing it to last for 30 minutes when submerged in 1.5 meters of water. This rating also means that your device is protected against damage from dust particles larger than 1mm.

However, like any other phone, the Flip 6 isn't completely waterproof. Liquids can quickly infiltrate and damage its internal components, including the wiring that powers the main screen.

These components can also break due to accidental drops or sudden physical impacts, particularly if you don't use a heavy-duty phone case. Plus, Flip phones are slightly less durable than standard devices due to the hinge, which can break much more easily and damage the screen.

How to Fix a Galaxy Z Flip 6 Black Phone Screen

Try the following options in the order suggested below to pinpoint why your Flip 6 screen is black:

Activate Safe Mode

Safe Mode, or Recovery Mode, is a tool that forces your Galaxy Z Flip 6 to run on the essential operating system. This allows you to diagnose any issues with the phone's software, hardware, and connectivity, including the screen.

Safe Mode works by disabling third-party applications to test whether they may be triggering the black screen. However, you'll still be able to make and receive calls or send messages. Activate safe mode by:

1. Using the Power Button to turn off your device.

2. Pressing and holding the Power and Volume Down buttons to turn the phone back on until the Samsung logo appears.

3. Letting go of the Power Button. You should then be in Safe Mode, which can be deactivated by force restarting the device using the Power and Volume down buttons again.

Soft Reset Your Z Flip 6

When it comes to technology, the go-to method for resolving a software or hardware issue involves simply switching the device on and off. If this sounds familiar, you've likely performed a soft reset before.

This resets everything at the software level, which can be incredibly handy if an app is the cause of your Z Flip 6's black main screen. Simply press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons for approximately 15 seconds until the phone restarts.

Try a Factory Reset

If neither a soft reset nor safe mode works, you may need to restore your Galaxy Z Flip 6 to its original settings. A factory reset is effective in removing any viruses or corrupted files that could be causing a black screen.

However, this option completely wipes all data from the device, including your apps, messages, contacts, photos, and Google account, so should be used as a last resort.

Here's how to perform a factory reset on the Z Flip 6:

1. Ensure your device is switched off.

2. Press the Power and Volume Up buttons. Keep holding until the phone vibrates and the Samsung Galaxy screen appears, which should take around 30 seconds.

3. Select 'Factory Reset/ Wipe Data' from the recovery screen, using the volume and side buttons to cycle through the options.

4. Press 'Factory Data Reset' to wipe the device then 'Reboot System Now.'

Visit a Store

The final step in solving the black screen issue is to contact Samsung support. Take your Z Flip 6 to a Samsung-authorised repair center for professional testing, especially if there's physical damage to the hardware.

Preventing the Black Screen of Death

Performing regular updates and careful handling are two great ways to keep your device safe from the black screen of death. However, the most effective method is to invest in a durable screen protector and phone case to protect the delicate hinge mechanism, large cover screen, and main display of your flip phone.

Choose a screen protector made from tempered glass to prevent scratches and cracks. Shockproof phone cases made with durable materials like polycarbonate, TPU, and silicone are also the best choice for maximum impact absorption. 

Visit Ghostek today to discover high-quality Galaxy Z Flip 6 cases that prioritize premium drop-proofing, impact absorption, and water resistance for your phone screen.