How to Resolve White Spots on Your Phone Screen

White spots on phone screens can be annoying and disruptive, but with the right approach, you can address and fix them effectively. This guide explores the causes, diagnosis, and solutions for white spots, including white dots on iPhone screens and other similar issues.

Identifying the Causes of White Spots on Phone Screens

White spots on phone screens, including white dots on iPhone displays or spots on other mobile screens, can arise from various issues. Identifying the root cause is essential for finding the right solution.

Pressure-Related Damage

One common cause of white spots is pressure-related damage. This occurs when excessive force is applied to the screen, leading to harm in the liquid crystals of the LCD. Such damage can result from sitting on the phone, dropping it, or applying too much pressure during cleaning. The liquid crystals that are damaged cannot display colors correctly, causing bright white spots to appear on the screen.

Types of Pressure Damage:

• Excessive Force: Applying too much pressure by sitting on your phone, dropping it, or pressing too hard can compress and damage the liquid crystals, creating white spots.
• Identifying Pressure Damage: White spots often appear brighter than the surrounding screen, particularly noticeable against a solid color background. Severe pressure damage can make these spots permanent.

Diagnosing White Spots on Your Phone Screen

White spots on phone screens can be caused by several issues. Identifying the exact cause can help you address the problem effectively. Here are some common reasons for white spots and their signs:

Faulty or Stuck Pixels

Pixels are the tiny dots that make up your phone's display, each composed of red, green, and blue subpixels. When these pixels malfunction, they can appear as white spots on the screen.

Dead Pixels: These pixels fail to light up at all, showing as persistent black or white spots regardless of what’s displayed on the screen.

Stuck Pixels: Unlike dead pixels, stuck pixels remain fixed on one color. They are more prevalent than dead pixels and can sometimes be resolved with pixel-fixing applications.

Identifying Pixel Problems: White spots caused by pixel issues are typically small and stand out against darker backgrounds. Using a screen testing app can help diagnose and sometimes repair these pixels.

Damage from Water Exposure

Water or moisture can significantly damage your phone's internal components, including the display. Moisture intrusion can cause discoloration and white spots on the screen.

Moisture Exposure: Phones subjected to rain, spills, or high humidity are at risk. Even a small amount of water can infiltrate internal components and cause damage.

Signs of Water Damage: White spots from water damage may accompany other issues like unresponsive buttons or erratic screen behavior. Look for signs of moisture behind the screen, such as fogging or water droplets.

Manufacturing Flaws

Occasionally, white spots may result from defects in the phone's screen due to manufacturing errors. These defects may not become apparent immediately but can emerge over time.

Defective Displays: Some screens have inherent flaws from production that result in malfunctioning liquid crystals, leading to white spots.

Identifying Manufacturing Defects: If white spots appear soon after purchasing the phone and without external damage, it could be a manufacturing defect. Contacting the manufacturer for warranty repair or replacement is advisable.

Wear and Tear

As phones age, their components can deteriorate, including the screen. Over time, this can lead to white spots appearing on the display.

Aging Components: Regular use over many years can cause gradual degradation of the display's backlight and liquid crystals, resulting in white spots.

Signs of Aging Hardware: If white spots appear gradually along with other issues like reduced battery life or slower performance, it may indicate aging hardware.

Diagnosing White Spots on Your Phone Screen

Determining the cause of white spots on your phone screen is crucial for effective repair. Here are some methods to help you identify the issue:

Visual Examination

Begin by examining your phone screen closely to check for any visible signs of damage.

Inspect for Cracks or Scratches: Look for visible damage such as cracks or scratches. Even minor cracks can create pressure points that may result in white spots.

Check for Pressure Marks: Subtle pressure marks might not be immediately apparent but can still lead to white spots. These might appear as faint indentations or bright areas when the screen is off.

Utilize Screen Testing Applications

Screen testing apps are useful tools for detecting dead or stuck pixels by displaying various colors and patterns.

Using Screen Testing Apps: Install a screen testing app like JScreenFix or Dead Pixel Detective. These apps will cycle through different colors and patterns to help you spot malfunctioning pixels.

Detecting Problem Pixels: As the app runs, watch for pixels that remain unchanged or show up as white spots. These could be dead or stuck pixels requiring further attention.

White Test Screen Tool

The White Test Screen tool is a free, web-based resource designed for screen diagnostics across various devices, including phones, tablets, and computers. It offers a pure white screen for detailed checks and customizable features.

Features of White Test Screen:

• Black Screen: Ideal for examining pixel response and spotting light leaks.
• Red Screen: Helps identify issues with red subpixels.
• Green Screen: Useful for assessing green subpixel performance.
• Blue Screen: Checks the blue subpixels on your display.
• Orange Screen: For specific testing scenarios involving mixed colors.
• Pink Screen: Detects anomalies in pink subpixels.
• Purple Screen: Identifies problems with purple subpixels.
• Off-White Screen: Useful for evaluating color consistency and screen uniformity.

Fun and Handy Feature: Fake Screen Tool

Want to play a harmless prank on your friends, colleagues, or even your boss? Our free fake screen tool lets you simulate various operating system screens, including Windows 7, 10, 11, Ubuntu, and macOS. Whether you want to fake a Windows update or display the latest macOS interface, this tool is perfect for some light-hearted fun.

Safe Mode Troubleshooting

Booting your phone into safe mode can help determine if a third-party app is causing the issue. Safe mode temporarily disables all non-essential apps, allowing you to see if the white spots remain.

Accessing Safe Mode on iPhone: To enter safe mode on an iPhone, press and hold the power button until the options menu appears, then select "Safe Mode" from the available options. The process might vary slightly depending on your iPhone model.

Accessing Safe Mode on Android: For Android devices, press and hold the power button until the power off option shows up, then press and hold "Power Off" until the safe mode prompt appears. Confirm by selecting "OK" to reboot into safe mode.

Evaluating White Spots in Safe Mode: If the white spots disappear in safe mode, a third-party app might be the cause. Try uninstalling recently added apps to pinpoint the source of the problem.

Addressing Software-Related Issues

If you suspect the white spots are due to software problems, consider the following solutions:

Update Your Software: Ensure that your phone’s operating system is up-to-date. Software updates often fix display issues.

• For iPhone: Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
• For Android: Go to Settings > System > Software Update.

Perform a Factory Reset: If updating doesn’t resolve the issue, a factory reset might be necessary. Remember to back up your data before proceeding, as this will erase all information on your phone.

• For iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
• For Android: Navigate to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).

Resolving Hardware Issues

If white spots on your phone screen are due to hardware problems, try these solutions:

Remove Screen Protector: Check if the issue is caused by a screen protector. Removing it might reveal whether it's affecting the display.

Seek Professional Repair: For screens with physical damage, it's best to consult a professional. They can assess and repair or replace the LCD or digitizer as needed.

Display Replacement: In cases of severe damage, replacing the entire display may be the most effective solution.

Advanced Fixes

If you want to try more advanced methods, consider these approaches:

Pixel Refreshing: Use pixel-refreshing apps that cycle through different colors to potentially fix stuck pixels.

Heat Treatment: Gently apply heat to the affected area using a hairdryer on a low setting. Be cautious not to overheat the phone, as excessive heat can cause further damage.

Pressure Application: Lightly massage the problematic area with a soft cloth to see if it helps redistribute the liquid crystals and resolve the issue.

Preventive Measures

To avoid future occurrences of white spots on your screen:

Use a Quality Screen Protector: A good screen protector can prevent scratches and shield your screen from pressure damage.

Avoid Excessive Pressure: Refrain from pressing too hard on your screen or placing heavy objects on it.

Keep Your Device Dry: Protect your phone from moisture. Consider using waterproof cases or keeping it away from wet environments.

Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or roughly handling your phone to prevent internal damage.