Justin Drake Carroll Repair, Tablet

Tablet Repair Solutions: What Damage Can Be Fixed by a Professional

Tablets have become incredibly popular over the years, and Coolest Gadgets reports that more than 1.28 billion people worldwide now use them.

Whether you have an iPad for work, a Samsung Galaxy Tab for school, or a Kindle Fire to stream movies and browse the web, these sleek, portable devices are incredibly convenient. Unfortunately, they’re also quite easy to damage.

Unlike laptops or desktops, tablets have minimal external components. Their all-in-one designs make them more difficult to repair without the right tools and experience. In many cases, professional tablet repair is the best option.

Keep reading to learn about some of the main issues that the team at Fruit Fixed can help with.

Cracked or Shattered Screens

This is by far one of the most common issues that we see with tablets. One slip off a kitchen counter or a hard bump in a backpack is enough to leave your screen spiderwebbed or completely shattered.

In many cases, screen damage isn’t just cosmetic. It can affect touch sensitivity. It can also damage internal components and even allow dust or moisture to enter the device.

Many tablet screens are laminated, meaning the display, glass, and digitizer are fused together. Because of this, DIY repairs are incredibly difficult.

At Fruit Fixed, we:

  • Replace cracked screens with OEM-quality parts
  • Ensure the display is correctly aligned and resealed
  • Run touch calibration tests after installation

It’s not the type of project you should take on alone. DIY tablet screen repair kits lead to ineffective jobs. They can:

  • Use subpar glass
  • Don’t have the proper adhesives
  • Miss critical internal checks

This can lead to poor display quality and further damage later.

Touchscreen Responsiveness Issues

Your screen doesn’t need to be cracked for there to be an issue. Sometimes, it can look completely fine, but it still may not be responding the way it should.

You might notice issues such as:

  • Delayed reaction to touch
  • “Phantom” touches that happen without input
  • Dead zones that don’t register anything

This often means the digitizer is damaged or malfunctioning. It’s the layer responsible for touch sensitivity. This damage can be caused by:

  • Pressure damage
  • Moisture
  • Manufacturing defects

Our professionals can diagnose whether the issue is with the screen, digitizer, or motherboard. We’ll replace individual components if needed (not always possible in DIY cases). We’ll also ensure the new touchscreen is responsive, accurate, and reliable.

Many tablets require screen and digitizer replacement at the same time. Doing it right avoids misalignment and restores full functionality.

Battery Not Holding Charge or Dying Quickly

If your tablet only lasts a couple of hours or shuts off unexpectedly (even when the battery is well above 0%), you’re likely dealing with a failing battery. Over time, lithium-ion batteries degrade, especially if:

  • You frequently drain the battery to 0%
  • You leave it plugged in overnight
  • The tablet has been exposed to heat

Swollen batteries can even push against the screen or back cover, causing warping or cracking.

At Fruit Fixed, we offer:

  • Safe tablet battery replacement using manufacturer-approved parts
  • Proper sealing of the device to maintain water resistance (where applicable)
  • Better health diagnostics to determine if other components are involved

We also responsibly recycle old batteries, ensuring safety and sustainability.

Charging Port Issues

A tablet that won’t charge isn’t just frustrating. It can leave you completely disconnected. Some users try different cables or charging bricks without success, only to find that the issue is the port itself.

Common causes include:

  • Debris or lint buildup inside the port
  • Bent or broken connector pins
  • Wear from regular use
  • Internal board damage from improper force or liquid

Our experts meticulously inspect and clean ports. We use micro-soldering to safely remove old ports and install new ones.

Once we’re finished, we test:

  • Charging speed
  • Data transfer
  • Port integrity

We also ensure compatibility with USB-C, Lightning, and any other relevant proprietary connectors.

Don’t force your charger into a damaged port. You may end up damaging other internal components and increase the cost of your overall repair.

Water or Liquid Damage

Spilled a drink on your tablet or dropped it in the sink? Even small amounts of liquid can cause serious problems, such as:

  • Screen flickering
  • Touch failures
  • Speakers/microphone are not working
  • Charging issues or no power at all
  • Long-term corrosion inside the device

The internal components of a tablet are tightly packed and sensitive, and moisture spreads fast. Some users attempt to dry their devices with rice or a hairdryer, but this can actually make things worse.

Our water damage fix options involve taking the device apart and drying it using professional tools. We’ll ultrasonically clean corroded components and replace any irreparably damaged parts. We’ll also preserve data where possible.

If your device gets wet, turn it off and don’t charge it. Bring it in to us as soon as you can for the best chance of recovery.

Camera and Microphone Malfunctions

The camera and microphone are crucial for anyone who uses their laptop for Zoom calls and video recording. it’s also essential for  proper voice control,

Some signs of issues with these can include:

  • Blurry or dark images
  • Camera app crashing
  • Echoey or muffled sound
  • The microphone isn’t registering voice commands

These problems can be caused by a software glitch or by hardware issues like a dislodged camera sensor or a faulty mic. The team at Fruit Fixed can help.

Our professional repair service includes:

  • Camera module or microphone replacement
  • Testing with built-in apps to verify audio and video quality
  • Software updates and cache clearing when applicable

Be cautious with apps that access your camera or microphone. Some third-party apps can interfere with performance or cause privacy issues.

Speaker or Audio Port Problems

Is there no sound coming from your tablet even when it’s not on mute? Speakers can wear out with time or get blocked by debris. Headphone jacks are notorious for getting damaged or dirty.

Some common signs of speaker or port issues include:

  • No sound or distorted audio
  • Sound is only working through headphones
  • Devices not recognizing plugged-in headphones

Our technicians can clean and replace speaker grills and internal drivers. We’ll repair or replace damaged ports using precision soldering. We’ll test your device thoroughly to ensure there are no more hardware or software audio problems.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

Is your tablet unable to connect to Wi-Fi? Does it frequently drop the connection or struggle to pair with Bluetooth devices? The issue might go deeper than just a weak signal. These problems can stem from:

  • Damaged internal antennas
  • Software bugs or firmware issues
  • Loose connectors or faulty wireless cards
  • Water or drop-related hardware failure

Our certified technicians start with a software check. They’ll update your device, resetting network settings and verifying configurations.

If the problem persists, we’ll open up the device and examine the antenna assemblies and signal chips. Repairs may involve replacing the Wi-Fi module or resecuring internal antenna connections.

Button or Switch Failures (Power, Volume, Home)

Tablet buttons wear out over time, especially with daily use. If your power button stops working or your volume controls are stuck, the fix is often more than just replacing a cap.

Common causes of button failure include:

  • Worn mechanical switches
  • Water damage or corrosion
  • Damaged flex cables
  • Internal board damage

Fruit Fixed can provide full teardown services to access and replace button mechanisms. We also test each repaired device for responsiveness, ensuring button alignment within the frame.

Software Corruption and Operating System Errors

Your tablet may boot up to a blank screen or freeze during startup. It may also crash repeatedly due to software corruption. This is especially common after failed updates or malware exposure.

Symptoms of OS-related issues include:

  • Boot loops or stuck Apple/Android logos
  • Slow performance after updates
  • App crashes or random reboots
  • Unresponsive touchscreen despite working hardware

At Fruit Fixed, we can perform a full OS reinstallation along with app data recovery (where possible). We’ll also take care of malware and bloatware removal. We can optimize your system and install any software updates.

Frame and Casing Damage

Some damage may only seem cosmetic, but that isn’t always the case. Your tablet can start to look worse for wear with:

  • Dented corners
  • Warped casings
  • Separated screens

They can also compromise the tablet’s structural integrity. It’ll also reduce water resistance. Typical examples include:

  • Bent frames that cause the screen to lift
  • Warped backs are affecting button placement
  • Loose or cracked belts are letting dust in

We can assess the severity of such damage and make repairs based on our findings. When repairs aren’t done correctly, they can cause further damage, making it essential to seek out professional repair services.

Reliable Tablet Repair With Fruit Fixed

Tablets are versatile, powerful, and surprisingly delicate. It doesn’t take much to cause damage, and when that happens, reliable tablet repair is crucial.

Fruit Fixed can repair all kinds of tablets using proven techniques and high-quality equipment. We’re committed to providing exceptional customer service, and most repairs are completed in under 30 minutes. We’ll also be able to give you a fair repair cost estimation so you know what to expect before making any commitment.

Check out our tablet repair page now to get started.

Justin Drake Carroll Tablet

Key Considerations for Choosing a Tablet Repair Service

So, your tablet’s acting up, and you’re in a bind? We get it. These devices are like our digital Swiss Army knives. We use them for everything-work, play, socializing, you name it. Now you’re at a crossroads: Where do you go to get this thing fixed? This guide is your roadmap to making an informed decision about choosing a tablet repair service.

Stick with us, and you’ll be armed with all the knowledge you need to make the right choice.

The Real Cost of a New Tablet

Before you even think about repair, the allure of a shiny new tablet might be calling your name. But let’s pump the brakes and consider what that really means.

Financial Implications

Buying a new tablet isn’t just about the sticker price of the device itself. You’ve also got to think about all the extras. A new case, perhaps a screen protector, and if you’re into it, a stylus or other accessories.

These costs add up quickly, and before you know it, you’re shelling out way more than you initially thought. Repairing your existing tablet could be a much more cost-effective option, especially if the issue is minor.

Environmental Toll

It’s easy to forget that every new gadget we buy has an environmental footprint. From the materials used to make it to the energy consumed in manufacturing, it all adds up. And let’s not forget about e-waste.

Your old tablet has to go somewhere, and often that ‘somewhere’ is not very eco-friendly. Repairing your device means one less item in the landfill and one less demand for a newly manufactured device.

Emotional Investment

You’ve spent time setting up your tablet just the way you like it. Your favorite apps are all there, your settings are customized, and your photos and files are just a tap away. Getting a new device means starting from scratch, and that’s a hassle most of us could do without.

Criteria for Choosing a Tablet Repair Service

So you’re leaning toward repair. Smart move. But how do you pick the right service?

Specialization in Tablet Repairs

You wouldn’t take your car to a bicycle mechanic, would you? The same logic applies here. Make sure the repair service you’re considering specializes in tablets.

They should be familiar with various brands and models and have a proven track record in tablet repairs.

Warranty Offers

A warranty isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a promise. It says, “We stand by our work.” Any reputable tablet repair service will offer a warranty on their repairs.

This gives you a safety net in case something goes wrong shortly after the repair.

Speed of Service

In today’s fast-paced world, being without your tablet for an extended period can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a real problem.

Look for a service that can promise a quick turnaround without compromising on quality.

Customer Feedback

Online reviews, testimonials, word-of-mouth-these are the currencies of reputation in the gadget repair world. Take the time to read what other customers have to say. A few bad reviews are one thing, but a pattern of poor service is a red flag.

Questions to Pose Before You Commit

Choosing a repair service is a commitment, and like any commitment, it comes with questions. Here are some crucial ones to ask before you hand over your beloved tablet.

What’s the Total Cost?

Sure, they might quote you a base price for the repair, but what about those pesky hidden fees? Are there charges for diagnostics? What if they discover additional issues while fixing the initial problem?

Get a detailed breakdown of the costs, including labor and parts. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when it’s time to pay up.

Do You Offer Loans During Repair?

Being without your tablet can be a major inconvenience, especially if you rely on it for work or other important tasks. Some top-notch tablet repair services offer loaner tablets to keep you connected while your device is in the shop. It’s a nice perk that can make your life a lot easier.

So, don’t hesitate to ask if this service is available and what the terms are. Is it free, or is there a rental fee? Knowing this can be a game-changer in your decision-making process.

Where Do the Parts Come From?

The quality of the replacement parts can make or break your tablet’s performance post-repair. Ask the service where they source their parts. Are they Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, or are they third-party components?

OEM parts are generally more reliable and often come with their own warranties.

Third-party parts can be cheaper but might not offer the same quality or longevity. Make sure you’re comfortable with the type of parts they plan to use.

Warning Signs: Proceed with Caution

Not every repair service is on the up-and-up. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

Vague Pricing

If the service can’t or won’t give you a clear price estimate, that’s a problem. Transparency in pricing is a must.

Poor Customer Service

First impressions matter. If the staff isn’t courteous or willing to answer your questions, take your business elsewhere.

No Warranty Policy

A tablet repair service that doesn’t offer a warranty is a no-go. It’s as simple as that.

Making the Smart Choice for Tablet Repair

You’re now armed with a wealth of information to guide you in selecting the right tablet repair service. It’s not just about the dollars and cents or how quickly you can get your device back. It’s about the full package-expertise, speed, warranties, and stellar customer service.

Your tablet isn’t just a piece of hardware; it’s your gateway to the digital universe. Trusting it to the right hands is crucial.

Ready to take the plunge? With all this knowledge at your fingertips, you’re more than prepared to make an informed, smart decision. 

If you’re on the lookout for a quality tablet repair service, get in touch with us today! Check out our locations on our site, we look forward to hearing from you.

Justin Drake Carroll Laptops, Tablet

Microsoft Surface Book Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)

Are you looking for the perfect hybrid between a desktop and a phone?

In a fast-paced world, taking your work with you can be unavoidable. Whether it’s catching up on work emails or making edits for a client, there will be times when you need to clock in outside of your usual working space. 20% of Americans work remotely, and more are prioritizing hybrid formats.

If you want a device that offers flexibility, the Microsoft Surface Book is a solid choice. This device is a powerhouse tool for productivity. It also comes with a pen and is a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.

However, the Surface book isn’t perfect, and there are common issues you may encounter. Luckily, most of these problems are easy to troubleshoot at home! Check out our list of the most common Microsoft Surface book problems and how to fix them.

No WiFi

Having no WiFi connection is one of the most frustrating problems you can encounter. Unfortunately, the Microsoft Surface Book isn’t immune to it, either.

The first thing you can do is check if other devices can connect to the WiFi. You can also try moving closer to your router and check if that fixes the problem. If you have an all-around WiFi issue, it may be time to call your internet provider.

You may also disconnect your device from the WiFi and try to reconnect it again. Make sure you didn’t type in the wrong password or have any typos. If that doesn’t fix the problem, run a network diagnostic.

Select the Start Menu and search for Network Problems. You should see an option that says Find and Fix Network Problems. Clicking this will give you instructions to start a diagnostic prompt.

Your Microsoft Surface Book will also look for any software updates and correct found issues. If you’re still having WiFi issues, you may be dealing with a component malfunction. Contact a Microsoft repair technician.

Touchscreen and Brightness Problems

If you have an unresponsive touchscreen, don’t panic. Ensure you have clean hands, as oily skin can interfere with your device’s sensor. It also helps to wipe down your screen with a lint-free cloth.

Touchscreen problems can also be a result of a software or hardware issue. You can fix this by going to the Start Menu and looking for the Surface Diagnostic Toolkit. If you can’t find it, you will have to install the diagnostic app from the Microsoft store.

Launch the ToolKit and type Touch Screen. Your device will check for overdue updates and prompt you to install them. If there are no updates available, the ToolKit will direct you to System Repair.

Answer the questions and follow the directions so the Diagnostic app can perform the needed tests. Your device will then repair any issues and prompt you to restart your Microsoft Surface Book. If this doesn’t work, your device will prompt you to schedule an appointment at a repair shop.

No Sound

No sound coming from your Surface Book’s system? It can be easy to forget if you’ve connected your device to Bluetooth headphones, so check that first. Confirm that you haven’t muted your Surface Book by pressing the mute key or adjusting the volume in Quick Settings.

If this doesn’t work, open the Start Menu and look for Fix Audio. You should see an option that says Find and Fix Problems With Playing Sound. Windows will then start an audio service, which should fix the sound issue.

If this doesn’t work, check for a Windows software update. You can also try restarting your device.

No Surface Pen Connection

The Surface Pen is a handy feature of the Microsoft Surface Book. However, it will sometimes have trouble connecting to the Surface Book. If you have an older pen model, check if you need to replace the batteries.

Newer versions like the Surface Slim Pen 2 will have a cradle, which charges the pen. Before you start running diagnostics, ensure that you have Bluetooth on.

If you’re experiencing connection issues with the pen, open Bluetooth and Devices. Select Pen and Windows Ink and look for Tactile Signals. Switch this on and your pen should connect to your Microsoft Surface Book.

Slow Start-Up

Does your Microsoft Surface Book feel slower than usual? Windows cleans up your disk through Disk Cleanup in the Start Menu. Your Surface Book can also help you clean up system files that could be bogging down your computer.

Go to the Start Menu and select Clean Up System Files. Your device will identify any unused or unnecessary files and prompt you to delete them.

It also helps to check your Task Manager to see which apps launch when you start up your device. You can enable or disable these apps to speed up your start-up time.

Microsoft Surface Book Won’t Charge

Any device will have a charging problem if the charging port is full of dirt and dust. If you don’t have a faulty charger, use an air blower or needle to poke out any debris stuck inside the charging port. You can also take your device to a professional cleaner.

Another issue that Surface Book users may encounter is the battery draining when it’s supposed to be charging or sleeping. If this happens, visit the nearest Microsoft store and get some help from an expert.

Screen Flickering

A flickering screen may have you wondering if you’ve broken your device’s LCD. This problem usually happens if you have a lot of activity on your screen. Many Surface Book users said that the problem lies with Hyper-V, which comes with Visual Studio.

If your screen is flickering constantly, try disabling Hyper-V. You can do this by typing the following into the search bar: dism.exe /Online /Disable-Feature:Microsoft-Hyper-V

Another solution is to change the resolution to something lower than the default 3000×2000.

Common Microsoft Surface Book Problems and How to Fix Them

Here are some of the most common Microsoft Surface Book problems and their solutions. When buying a new device, it’s always best to know what you’re getting into. The Microsoft Surface Book is a powerful device, but issues like battery problems or a flickering screen can be disheartening.

Are you in need of repair for serious issues? Contact us today!

Justin Drake Carroll Tablet

iPad vs Android Tablet: Which Should You Choose?

Few rivalries spark more debate than the choice between Android and Apple. Both brands have their raving fans and critics ready to point out the genius or failure of its products.

Choosing between an iPad vs Android tablet is easy if you have you quiet the marketing noise of each brand and focus on value. Check out this quick guide to choosing between an Apple or Android tablet. 

Android Strengths

One of the biggest strengths of Android is its affordability. If you’re looking for an entry-level tablet, Android is sure to have more options for you to choose from.

Unlike Apple, Android tablets come from a wide range of well-known brands like Samsung. These brands each have their own strengths in technology that enhance the features of Android tablets.

One common feature of Android tablets is the ability to run widgets, or mini-apps, from the desktop of your device. For example, if you want an extended weather forecast, a weather widget can remain open on the desktop of your table displaying a week-long forecast without interrupting any other functionality.

On an iPad, you have to close one app before you can open another. Apple currently does not offer any widgets on its devices. 

One the bargain end of the scale, Android tablets are fairly basic in features but are still customizable to suit consumer needs. The lower price also means the device is easier to replace if it gets damaged.

Android Weaknesses

One of the weaknesses of the Android tablet is its design. Basic models aren’t aesthetically pleasing and appear outdated compared to Apple.

The Android operating system relies on Google Play to distribute apps. Google Play has little quality control when it comes to app publishers.

The type of apps available for an Android tablet will be consistent with major brands like Netflix but will vary drastically among independent publishers. Android operating systems aren’t universal across devices. 

This can mean an app works perfectly on one device but crashes on another. Android developers can’t always offer app versions for the wide range of devices available on the market. 

For this reason, Android users don’t have a universal experience. One tablet can offer a superior user experience while an off-brand tablet has crash after crash. 

iPad Strengths

Apple is both a brand of devices and an operating system. This gives the company a unique advantage to brand the user experience from end to end.

The design of the iPad follows a consistent set of rules so that users that by a certain generation all get identical product options. There is no option to buy a generic tablet and connect to Apple.

Apple developers have a much easier time managing changes in operating system updates for apps. This means Apple’s app store has a higher quality experience than Google Play.

Apple has mastered the feature of handing off tasks between devices. If you own an iPhone, for example, you can finish a task on your iPad that you start on your phone.

The same goes for working on a Mac computer. Tasks started on your iPad can be finished on the desktop computer and vice versa.

Apple’s iMessaging system updates in real-time across devices keeping your conversations fluid. When it comes to accessories, Apple has Android beat.

Wireless keyboards, external speakers and high-end tablet cases make the iPad stand out from competitors. Android users must rely on third-party accessories where the quality isn’t consistent. 

The iPad is currently the leader in the tablet market with faster processing speeds than other tablets. App developers ensure their apps are tailored to the latest iPad devices so that screen sizes fit the app’s content.

Android tablet styles are so varied that the content will be viewed differently across devices because screen sizing is more challenging for developers to keep up with. 

iPad Weaknesses

Apple devices don’t come cheap. Getting a top of the line iPad could be three times the cost of an Android tablet. 

This makes the iPad cost-prohibitive anyone on a tight budget. It means that protecting the device from potential harm becomes a necessary way to manage your personal budget. 

Getting adequate protection means investing in Apple’s high-cost accessories. Another downside to the iPad is the lack of flexibility in its operating system.

There are no widgets or the ability to customize the user experience. You can move around the order or grouping of apps on your desktop, but that’s about the level of control you have over the interface.

Apple’s set up makes it harder for malware and hackers to infiltrate their devices but users can’t get access to useful tools that make their tablet experience more robust.

There’s also no option for added storage on the iPad. Android tablets have slots for micro SD cards to provide more space on the device. 

If you want more space on an iPad, your only option is to upgrade your device by buying a new one. There are apps that offer cloud storage but these are mainly helpful for files and not media stored on your phone. 

iPad vs Android: To Buy or Not to Buy

The question of iPad vs. Android is a difficult choice to make. Though both brands have made significant strides in the range of technical features available, both come with its fair share of setbacks.

The tablet you choose should be based on what you can easily afford and your expectations as a user. If you’re used to the option of having control of your device and its customization, Android is best for you.

But if you want a sleek device with top-notch accessories, choose the iPad. There is no universal scenario where either brand works for everyone. 

For more tech tips and advice, visit our blog for updates.