Encountering a bricked Android phone can be a frustrating experience, particularly after attempting to modify or update your device. Bricking refers to a state where the phone becomes unresponsive, essentially transforming it into a non-functional device. This can happen due to various reasons, such as flashing an incompatible ROM, installing a faulty mod, or tweaking system files incorrectly. However, there is no need to despair; many bricked devices can be revived through a few troubleshooting methods. Bricked phones typically fall into two categories: soft bricked and hard bricked. A soft-bricked phone may get stuck on the boot screen or enter a boot loop, while a hard-bricked device shows no signs of life, even when powered on. Fortunately, soft bricking is more common and usually easier to fix. Here are four methods to help you recover your Android device.

1. Wipe Data and Reinstall a Custom ROM

If your device won’t boot after flashing a new ROM, the issue may stem from a "dirty flash," where the previous data wasn't wiped before the new installation. To resolve this, boot into your custom recovery, navigate to the wipe section, and perform an advanced wipe of the data. After wiping, re-flash the custom ROM. This process typically restores functionality without erasing your internal storage or SD card.

2. Disable Xposed Modules

If your phone experiences boot loops after installing an Xposed module, you can use the Xposed Uninstaller to rectify the situation. This small flashable ZIP can be installed via recovery mode to remove the problematic module. If you lack the uninstaller, you can disable the modules directly through recovery by navigating to the appropriate directory and deleting the modules list file.

3. Restore from a Nandroid Backup

A Nandroid backup serves as a comprehensive snapshot of your device, encompassing not just apps and data but the entire operating system. If you have previously created a Nandroid backup, you can easily restore your device by booting into recovery, selecting the restore option, and confirming the backup. This method is often the simplest way to recover from a soft brick.

4. Flash a Factory Image

If previous methods fail, re-flashing a factory image is the last resort. This process will restore your device to its original state, erasing all internal data and unrooting the phone. Depending on your device, you may need to use specific tools like Fastboot or manufacturer-specific software. Ensure you have the correct factory image for your model, as incorrect images can lead to further complications. In the unfortunate event of a hard brick, recovery options are more limited. A hard-bricked phone may require professional repair or, in some cases, a complete replacement. Nonetheless, many users find success with the methods outlined above for soft-bricked devices. With careful handling and proper tools, you can restore your Android phone and continue enjoying its features.