Many mobile users are reporting the green line issue in smartphone displays, which is affecting smartphones from various brands, including OnePlus, Vivo, Motorola, and even Samsung. This issue is increasing in number and is a concern within the smartphone industry. Here’s everything you need to know about the problem.
What is the Green line issue in smartphones?
The “Green Line Issue” is a hardware problem specific to AMOLED smartphone displays, characterized by the presence of a thin, vertical green line running from the top to the bottom of the screen. Despite the rest of the display functioning normally, this defect is highly noticeable and can be quite bothersome. Interestingly, reports of this issue have been widespread across various smartphone brands and models, all of which share a common feature – the use of AMOLED screens.
What is the exact cause of Green line issue?
The exact reason behind the green line problem seen on certain smartphone displays is still not known. However, experts believe it could be related to a defective display connector or flex cable. These parts link the screen to the phone’s main circuit board, and any damage, looseness, or flaws in them can result in display issues. Additionally, physical damage like dropping the device, applying prolonged pressure, damaging the display, or exposing it to water may also cause this problem.
Recent reports indicate that certain software updates may also trigger the appearance of the green line, which has become a significant concern for users. The green line may appear randomly after a software update designed to enhance user experience but can inadvertently become a catalyst for revealing or exacerbating hardware defects.
Some reports suggest that the problem may occur due to the device overheating during the update process. The increased temperature could affect the internal connectors, causing the display to malfunction and develop an irreversible green line.
Can the issue be resolved via a software update?
Unfortunately, the green line issue in smartphone displays cannot be resolved via an update because it’s a hardware issue and not a software malfunction. The only possible way to solve it is to replace the display entirely, for which you’ll have to visit the service centre.
Is the Green line issue widespread?
The number of people who have reported the issue on X/Twitter suggests the issue has affected a significant amount of people where people have complained of developing a green line out of nowhere. Some users have reported waking up to find a green line on their smartphone’s display despite the device remaining idle throughout the night. This suggests that physical damage is unlikely to cause the issue, as the phone was not in use during that time. The issue has affected OnePlus, Vivo, Motorola, and Samsung users mainly, with recent reports for Nothing Phones and CMF Phone 1 as well. In fact, we have also faced the issue of our Vivo X50, which is years old at this point.
How have the companies responded?
Brands, including OnePlus and Samsung, have acknowledged the issue, but long-term support is being provided only by OnePlus. The brand recently introduced an offer via its Red Cable Club where the OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus 8T, OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9R, OnePlus 10 Pro, and OnePlus 11 users can claim a free screen upgrade in addition to cleaning and maintenance services at a OnePlus service centre. We feel this is the best solution for affected users.
Samsung also offered a free one-time display replacement without any additional cost back in April, but the free repair service was valid only for a few days, and those who were affected by the issue after that date are now in the dark.
Motorola and Vivo have replied to customers on X that they should submit their devices to a nearby service centre for further investigation. Nothing and CMF have offered a free display replacement to their users, most likely because the user’s device was under warranty.