Safe mode stops most apps from running so you can troubleshoot problems
Safe mode is a diagnostic state your tablet enters to help you find what's causing crashes, freezes, or other problems. When safe mode is on, your tablet runs only the core system apps and services—all third-party apps you installed are hidden. If your tablet works smoothly in safe mode but crashes when you turn it off, one of your installed apps is the culprit.
Getting out of safe mode is straightforward on most tablets. The method depends on whether you have an Android tablet or an iPad, and the exact steps vary slightly between manufacturers and operating system versions. The good news is that exiting safe mode does not erase anything—it straightforward restores your tablet to normal operation.
Key Takeaways
- Safe mode hides all third-party apps so you can test whether one of them is causing problems.
- On Android tablets, hold the power button, then press and hold "Power off" until a safe mode prompt appears, then tap "Cancel" or "Exit safe mode."
- On iPads, safe mode is less common, but if your iPad is stuck in it, restart the device using the method for your specific iPad model.
- If your tablet will not exit safe mode, a forced restart may be necessary, and you should check for app updates or uninstall recently added apps.
Exiting safe mode on Android tablets
The most common way to exit safe mode on an Android tablet is through the power menu. Press and hold the power button until the power menu appears on your screen. You should see options like "Power off," "Restart," or "Emergency SOS." Look for text that says "Safe mode is on" or a similar indicator.
On most Android tablets, press and hold the "Power off" option (not just tap it—hold it down) until a dialog box appears asking whether you want to exit safe mode. Tap "Exit safe mode" or "Cancel," depending on what your tablet displays. Your tablet will restart and return to normal mode within a few seconds.
If you do not see a safe mode option in the power menu, straightforward restart your tablet normally. Press the power button, tap "Restart," and let the tablet reboot. Many Android tablets automatically exit safe mode after a restart.
Exiting safe mode on iPads
iPads rarely enter safe mode the way Android tablets do. If your iPad is behaving as though it is in a restricted state, the issue is usually something else—a frozen app, low storage, or a software glitch. The solution is to restart your iPad using the method for your specific model.
For iPad Pro models with Face ID, press the top button and either volume button together, then drag the power slider to turn off the device. Wait 30 seconds, then press the top button again to turn it back on. For older iPad models with a home button, press the top (or side) button until the power slider appears, drag it to turn off the device, wait 30 seconds, and press the button again to restart.
What to do if your tablet is stuck in safe mode
If your tablet will not exit safe mode using the normal method, try a forced restart. On Android, this usually means holding the power button for 10 to 15 seconds until the screen goes black and the tablet vibrates, then releasing and waiting for it to boot up again. The exact button combination varies by manufacturer—Samsung tablets, for example, may require holding power and volume down together.
If a forced restart does not work, your tablet may have a deeper software problem. Try charging it to at least 50 percent battery, then attempt the restart again. Low battery can sometimes prevent your tablet from exiting safe mode properly.
Finding which app is causing the problem
If your tablet works fine in safe mode but crashes or freezes when you exit it, one of your installed apps is the cause. While in safe mode, check which apps you installed recently—these are the most likely culprits. Look in your app store's "My apps" or "Installed apps" section to see the installation date.
Exit safe mode, then uninstall the most recently added app. Restart your tablet and see whether the problem goes away. If it does, that app was the issue. If the problem persists, return to safe mode and uninstall the next most recent app. Repeat this process until your tablet runs smoothly.
Once you identify the problematic app, check whether an update is available in your app store. Many crashes are fixed by updates. If no update exists and the app is not essential, leave it uninstalled. If you need the app, contact the developer through the app store listing to report the problem.
When to restart your tablet in safe mode again
If your tablet continues to crash or freeze even after you exit safe mode and have not uninstalled any apps, return to safe mode to confirm the problem is app-related. If your tablet works perfectly in safe mode, the issue is definitely one of your installed apps. If your tablet still has problems in safe mode, the issue may be with the operating system itself or with the tablet's hardware, and you should contact the manufacturer or visit a repair shop.
Safe mode is a useful diagnostic tool, not a permanent state. Use it to test, identify the problem app, and then return to normal operation. Your tablet is designed to run all your apps together, so safe mode is only a temporary troubleshooting step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will exiting safe mode delete my apps or data?
No. Exiting safe mode straightforward restores your tablet to normal operation. All your apps, photos, messages, and other data remain exactly as they were. Safe mode only hides third-party apps temporarily—it does not remove them.
Why does my tablet keep going back into safe mode?
This usually means one of your installed apps is crashing repeatedly, which triggers safe mode as a protective measure. While in safe mode, uninstall the most recently added app, restart normally, and see if the problem stops. If it continues, repeat the process with the next recent app.
Can I use my tablet normally while in safe mode?
You can use built-in apps like email, calendar, and the web browser, but third-party apps you installed will not appear or run. Safe mode is meant for troubleshooting, not daily use. Exit it as soon as you have finished testing.
What if my tablet will not restart at all?
Charge your tablet to at least 50 percent battery and try again. If it still will not respond, try a forced restart by holding the power button for 15 to 20 seconds. If the tablet remains unresponsive, contact the manufacturer's support line or visit an authorized repair center.