How to Fix the Xperia Play Touchscreen That's Not Working

Reset your Xperia Play to factory defaults if the touchscreen freezes.
... Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

If the screen on your Xperia Play has sustained physical damage, you must return the device to the manufacturer or place of purchase to have the screen repaired or obtain a new device. However, if the screen freezes up, turns black or displays as a blank screen, you can fix the touchscreen by performing a factory data reset. The factory data reset returns the Xperia Play to its original software and settings. Use the preferred method to perform the reset if you can open the Settings app. Otherwise, use the alternate method to reset the device by pressing a combination of keys.

1 Preferred Reset

2 Tap the Apps icon in the Xperia Play home screen

Tap the “Apps” icon in the Xperia Play home screen to open the Applications screen.

3 Tap the Settings icon

Tap the “Settings” icon to launch the Settings app.

4 Tap the Privacy ” option

Tap the “Privacy” option, then tap the “Factory Data Reset” tab.

5 Tap the Reset Phone ” icon

Tap the “Reset Phone” icon, then tap “Erase Everything” to confirm. The Xperia Play is returned to factory defaults, and the device reboots. Set up the device with your Google account.

6 Alternate Reset

7 Press

Press and hold the Power key until the phone vibrates. Release the Power key.

8 Hold both the Power key and the Back button

Press and hold both the Power key and the Back button when you see the Sony Ericsson screen. The Initialization Mode screen opens.

9 Tap Reset Phone

Tap “Reset Phone,” then tap “OK” to confirm. The Xperia Play is returned to factory defaults, and the device reboots. Set up the device with your Google account.

  • All of your apps, settings and files will be deleted and you must set up the device as if it was new after the reset.
  • Information provided in these steps applies to the Xperia Play. Instructions may vary slightly or significantly for other Sony Ericsson devices.
  • Perform a factory data reset before you sell or give away your phone to wipe your files and data from the device.

Based in the live music capital of the world, Tammy Columbo continues to work in the information technology industry as she has done for more than 10 years. While living in Austin, Columbo has contributed to high profile projects for the State of Texas, Fortune 500 technology companies and various non-profit organizations. Columbo began writing professionally in 2009.

×