How To: Fix Common Problems on Your Windows Device

How To: Fix Common Problems on Your Windows Device

Smartphones may not always act as smart as you would expect. The simplest of tasks can sometimes seem so impossible for these devices. We have found some of the most common problems on Windows phones and the simple solutions to get on with your work.

Text Messages and Emails Issues

Many Windows phones users have experienced problems with syncing emails accounts and also sending and receiving text messages. This issue seems to be caused by the Skype app.

  • Uninstall the Skype app: Start > Swipe left for the Applications List > Select and hold the Skype icon > Select Uninstall.
  • Restart your device: Restart the device by holding the power button for 10 seconds and then tap it to turn the phone back on.
  • Sync: Force a sync on all the accounts you are having problems with.

 

This should resolve the issue and you should be able to install Skype again, without any future problems.

Code Error 80048264

A very common issue is the Windows Phone App store Error 80048264. This occurs when you are opening an app you have already installed on your device.

  • Sync your device: Settings > Select Email + Accounts > Select on your Microsoft Account and hold to launch options > Select Sync and now your account will be synced with your device and you will be able to Install or Update Apps.

 

This error sometimes arises when the time and date of your device does not match the time and date of the network.

  • Check Time and Date Settings: Settings > Date+time and manually enter the correct time zone, date, and time.

 

Fast Battery Drain

Here a few simple steps and tricks to help prevent draining the battery life of your iOS device:

  • Close the app after you have finished using it: Go to the Windows Phone’s Settings > swipe over to the Applications page > Select Background Tasks > Tap on Block.

 

Bonus Tip: Try to uninstall and re-install VoIP and social media apps. It appears that apps that use excessive battery power often improve in performance if they are deleted and re-installed. To remove an app: Start > Swipe left for the Applications List > Select and hold the affected app icon > Select Uninstall. To Re-install an affected app: Start > Marketplace > Search for the app > Press Install.

Volume Level Won’t Change

While listening to music, if you have tried to adjust the volume using the volume button during a specific song and are unable to, you’re not the only one.

  • Restart your device: Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds and tap it to turn the phone back on.

 

Bonus Tip: If you’re using a Lumia device then try the Nokia Music App as it does not appear to have the volume issue.

Slow and Unresponsive Interface

A slow and unresponsive screen is a very common problem among Windows phones. Despite there being numerous causes, there is generally one (or two) simple fixes:

  • Restart your device: Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds and tap it to turn the phone back on.
  • Check for updates: App list > Settings > Phone Update > Check for updates.

 

Notification Not Working

Another common issue on the Windows phones is with Push notifications not working.

  • Uninstall affected app: Start > Swipe left for the Applications List > Select and hold the affected app icon > Select Uninstall.
  • Restart your device: Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds and tap it to turn the phone back on.
  • Re-install affected app: Start > Marketplace > Search for the app > Press Install.
  • Check battery saver status: Settings > Battery Saver > Turn to off.

 

It’s quite frustrating when your smartphone isn’t being very ‘smart’. Simple problems however are often fixed with simple solutions. Do you have a common problem with your Windows device that we did not cover? Let us know in the comments section below and we’ll help with a solution!