Galaxy 4 Phone Problems Make Phone Unusable, Say Owners

Samsung Galaxy 4 phone problems that include sudden reboots, freeze-ups or failure to start up altogether have been attributed to a defective memory chip.

Specifically, the defect appears to lie in phone’s memory card. This is where the smartphone’s data storage resides, similar to the memory cards in other electronic devices such as digital cameras and audio players. Unfortunately, when this component fails, it affects the entire operating system; metaphorically, it is similar to a person who suffers a severe brain injury that leaves them in a vegetative state or a coma.

A consumer who has paid as much as $500 for product has a right to know that it is reliable and functions properly. If it does not, the manufacturer has an obligation to make it right. Unfortunately, some phone owners say Samsung has thus far shown no indication that it intends to take responsibility for their products’ defects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Galaxy 4 Phone Problems

What Galaxy Models Are Affected?

The memory card defect is occurring with the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note 4 Edge. Both models were released in September, 2014. Currently, the Note 4 sells for between $78 and $230, while the Note 4 Edge prices range from $40 for a used phone to as much as $480 for a new model.

What is the Exact Problem?

The defective component is the embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC). The MMC is where a smartphone’s operating system usually resides, meaning that if it fails, it brings down the entire device with it. In addition, the Galaxy’s eMMC is the storage medium for its flash memory, where data is retained when the device is powered off.

When Did This Defect Become Apparent?

According to Galaxy 4 users, the problem began after Samsung introduced an “upgrade” to the phone’s operating system. It is not the first time; in 2018, the company was fined €5 million ($5.7 million USD) by a consumer protection agency of the Italian government over a similar issue.

What Happens When the eMMC Doesn’t Work?

Users report that when the eMMC is non-functional, Galaxy 4 phone problems begin to manifest themselves as “lock-ups” (the screen freezes), or the phone unexpectedly reboots. In many cases, it fails to boot, and eventually becomes completely inoperable. This is usually preceded by an error message that says “mmc_read failed.”

Can Anything Be Done?

Unfortunately, once the eMMC fails, the only reliable solution is to replace the entire motherboard, since the chip is integrated. It is possible to purchase a “refurbished” motherboard for between $20 and $35, but unless one is knowledgeable about repairs, it requires the services of a skilled technician to do the replacement. According to one plaintiff in a proposed class action lawsuit against Samsung, this can cost as much as $180.

Is There a Workaround?

Some users have reported that use of a “Wake Lock” app (a power manager for Android phones, available online) can address some of these Galaxy 4 phone problems, allowing the phone to continue operating for a time. However, this increases power consumption, shortening battery life considerably.

Holding Samsung Accountable

When a similar issue with an improper software update occurred in Italy (resulting in the aforementioned fine), customers said they were forced to pay high repair costs out of their own pockets, since the phones were out of warranty at the time. Plaintiffs in a pending class action claim that Samsung was aware of the defect and concealed this information from consumers.

Join a Free Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you own or owned a Samsung Galaxy Note 4 or Note 4 Edge smartphone that became sluggish, resulting in the “mmc_error” message or otherwise failing prematurely, you may qualify to take action and seek compensation against Samsung.

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