Understanding Samsung Safe Mode: What It Is and Why It Activates
When your Samsung smartphone or tablet unexpectedly enters Safe Mode, it often indicates that a third-party application is causing system instability or performance issues. Safe Mode is a diagnostic tool that temporarily disables all downloaded apps, allowing the device to run only its core operating system and pre-installed applications. This diagnostic environment helps users and technicians isolate problems, determining if a recently installed app is the root cause of glitches, crashes, or battery drain. Recognizing Safe Mode is crucial because it fundamentally alters your phone's functionality, limiting access to many features and applications you rely on daily.
The appearance of 'Safe Mode' displayed prominently, usually at the bottom corner of the screen, is the primary visual cue. It’s a signal that the device is operating in a restricted state. While this mode is invaluable for troubleshooting, encountering it without intending to can be disorienting. Users might find themselves in Safe Mode after an accidental button combination, a software update hiccup, or more commonly, due to an app conflict. The goal is typically to exit this mode once the underlying issue is identified or resolved, restoring the phone to its full operational capacity.
Most Samsung devices, including the extensive Samsung Galaxy line, utilize Safe Mode as a built-in recovery mechanism. Its activation is usually a response to specific triggers. These triggers can range from a problematic app continuously crashing to a corrupted system file. When such an event occurs, the device automatically boots into Safe Mode to prevent further damage and to allow for easier removal of the offending software. Understanding these activation triggers can help prevent future accidental entries into this state, though the primary concern for most users is simply returning to normal operation.
The presence of 'Safe Mode' on your screen is not a permanent state. It's a temporary troubleshooting condition designed to be exited once its diagnostic purpose is served. The methods for exiting Safe Mode are generally straightforward, relying on simple device actions. However, persistent issues may require deeper investigation. The critical step for most users is knowing how to initiate the exit procedure. This involves actions that prompt the phone to reboot, effectively clearing the diagnostic environment and loading the operating system as usual.
Common Triggers for Accidental Safe Mode Activation
Several scenarios can lead to your Samsung device booting into Safe Mode unintentionally. The most frequent cause is a faulty or incompatible third-party application. When a new app is installed or an existing one is updated, it might conflict with other software or the device's operating system, causing instability. If this conflict is severe enough, the phone's system may automatically launch Safe Mode to protect itself and allow you to uninstall the problematic app. Holding down specific hardware buttons during startup, especially the Volume Down button, can also accidentally trigger Safe Mode if not released at the precise moment the device powers on.
Software glitches are another significant factor. A recent system update, if interrupted or corrupted, can sometimes lead to the device defaulting to Safe Mode upon restart. Similarly, if the phone encounters an error during its boot sequence that it cannot immediately resolve, it might enter Safe Mode as a precautionary measure. Overheating can also sometimes play a role, though this is less common as a direct trigger for Safe Mode itself compared to general performance degradation or unexpected shutdowns. Recognizing these triggers is key to preventing future occurrences and understanding why your device might have entered this state.
For users concerned about their device's software integrity, understanding the role of Safe Mode is paramount. It's a feature that, while sometimes inconveniently activated, serves a vital diagnostic purpose. By disabling non-essential applications, it isolates the system, making it easier to pinpoint software-related problems. The objective is always to transition back to the standard operating environment once the troubleshooting is complete or the issue is resolved. The process to exit Safe Mode is designed to be accessible, even for users less familiar with advanced smartphone diagnostics.
The primary indicator that your Samsung device is in Safe Mode is the persistent 'Safe Mode' text displayed on the screen.
The Primary Method: How to Exit Safe Mode with a Simple Restart
The most common and straightforward method to exit Safe Mode on any Samsung device involves a simple restart. This action prompts the phone to load its standard operating system, bypassing the diagnostic mode. When you're in Safe Mode, the interface looks and feels different, with limited app functionality and the 'Safe Mode' text prominently displayed. To initiate the exit, you need to perform a standard power cycle, just as you would to reboot your phone under normal circumstances.
Begin by locating the Power button, usually situated on the side of your Samsung phone. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the power menu appears on your screen. Within this menu, you should see options such as 'Power off', 'Restart', or 'Emergency mode'. Select the 'Restart' option. If 'Restart' is not immediately visible, choose 'Power off' first, wait for the device to shut down completely, and then press and hold the Power button again to turn it back on.
Once you select 'Restart', your Samsung device will begin its shutdown and reboot sequence. During this process, it will attempt to load the normal Android operating system instead of Safe Mode. You’ll see the usual Samsung logo and boot animation. If the restart is successful, the 'Safe Mode' text should disappear from the screen, and all your downloaded applications should become accessible again. This process effectively clears the temporary Safe Mode environment and restores your phone to its full functionality.
If the 'Restart' option is not available in the power menu while in Safe Mode, or if the device doesn't exit Safe Mode after a standard restart, you might need to force a restart. This typically involves holding down both the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously for an extended period, usually around 10-20 seconds, until the device vibrates and reboots. This hard reset can often resolve minor software glitches that might be preventing a normal exit from Safe Mode. Always ensure your Samsung phone has sufficient battery charge before attempting any restart procedures.
Steps to Perform a Standard Restart
- Press and hold the Power button on the side of your Samsung device.
- Wait for the power menu to appear on the screen.
- Tap the Restart option.
- Confirm the restart if prompted.
- Allow the phone to complete the reboot process.
If your device doesn't restart correctly or remains in Safe Mode, try removing the battery if your model allows it, waiting 30 seconds, then reinserting it and powering the phone back on. This can clear residual power and resolve temporary glitches.
After a successful restart, the 'Safe Mode' indicator should no longer be visible at the bottom of your screen.
Troubleshooting Persistent Safe Mode Issues
What happens if the simple restart doesn't get your Samsung phone out of Safe Mode? While rare, persistent Safe Mode can be a sign of a deeper software conflict or a hardware issue. If you've tried restarting multiple times and the 'Safe Mode' text remains stubbornly present, it’s time to look at more advanced troubleshooting steps. The goal is to systematically eliminate potential causes and restore normal operation. This often involves identifying what might be preventing the device from exiting the diagnostic environment.
One common reason for a phone remaining stuck in Safe Mode after a restart is a stuck or malfunctioning hardware button. The Volume Down button is particularly suspect, as pressing and holding it during startup is a common way to intentionally enter Safe Mode. If this button is physically jammed or its internal sensor is malfunctioning, the phone might continuously detect it as being pressed, thus re-entering Safe Mode every time it boots up. Inspect the buttons for any debris or damage and try gently cleaning around them with a soft brush or compressed air. Pressing each button firmly several times can also help dislodge any minor obstructions.
If button issues are suspected, you can test this by trying to boot into Safe Mode intentionally. If you can't do that reliably, the button might be the issue. Alternatively, if the button appears fine, the problem might lie with the software that interprets the button presses. In such cases, a factory reset is often recommended as it wipes the device clean and reinstalls the operating system from scratch, resolving most software-related problems. However, remember that a factory reset will erase all data on your phone, so ensure you have backed up any important information beforehand.
For users experiencing this persistent issue, consider the possibility of a corrupted system file. During a normal restart, the phone loads the operating system. If critical system files are damaged, the device might fail to boot correctly into the normal environment and default back to Safe Mode as a fallback. This situation often necessitates more drastic measures, such as using Samsung's own diagnostic tools or seeking professional assistance. Understanding the potential causes, from simple button issues to complex software corruption, is key to approaching the fix effectively.
Checking for Stuck Hardware Buttons
Hardware buttons, especially the volume keys, are primary culprits if your Samsung device won't exit Safe Mode. They can become stuck due to physical damage, debris accumulation, or internal mechanism failure. A button that remains pressed or registers as pressed can continuously trigger Safe Mode upon startup.
- Inspect the buttons for any visible obstructions, dirt, or signs of damage.
- Gently clean around the button edges with a dry, soft-bristled brush or a can of compressed air.
- Press each button multiple times firmly to ensure it moves freely and springs back into place.
- Try navigating menus using the buttons while the phone is on to confirm they are functioning as expected.
If you suspect a button issue, particularly the Volume Down button, but cannot resolve it with cleaning, it might require professional repair to replace the faulty component. Without the button functioning correctly, the device may repeatedly enter Safe Mode.
The persistent 'Safe Mode' text is the key indicator that a simple restart has not been sufficient.
Uninstalling Problematic Apps: The Reason for Safe Mode
Safe Mode is primarily a diagnostic tool designed to help you identify and remove rogue applications that are causing your Samsung device to malfunction. If your phone automatically entered Safe Mode, it's highly probable that a third-party app you installed is the culprit. These apps can cause issues such as unexpected reboots, app crashes, excessive battery drain, or general system slowdowns. By disabling these apps, Safe Mode allows you to regain control and uninstall them without interference from the problematic software.
To identify which app might be causing the problem, think about what you installed or updated just before the issues began. Often, the problematic app is one of the most recent additions to your device. Once you are in Safe Mode, you can access your device's app settings to uninstall applications. This is the core purpose of Safe Mode: to provide a stable environment where you can manage potentially harmful software. The process is similar to uninstalling any app in normal mode, but the limited environment of Safe Mode ensures that the problematic app cannot interfere with the uninstallation process.
When you access your app list in Safe Mode, you'll notice that only system applications and those that came pre-installed with your phone are active. Downloaded apps will appear grayed out or will be entirely absent from your app drawer, indicating they are not running. To uninstall a third-party app, navigate to 'Settings,' then 'Apps' or 'Application Manager.' Locate the suspect application in the list, tap on it, and then select the 'Uninstall' option. Confirm your choice, and the app will be removed from your device. Once uninstalled, you can then restart your phone to exit Safe Mode and check if the issue is resolved.
If you are unsure which app is causing the problem, a systematic approach is best. Uninstall recently added apps one by one, restarting your phone after each uninstallation to check if Safe Mode is exited and performance has improved. This method helps pinpoint the exact application responsible for the instability. Remember, uninstalling apps in Safe Mode does not affect your personal data like photos, contacts, or messages, as these are stored separately from application data. However, it's always prudent to have regular backups for peace of mind, especially when troubleshooting.
Identifying and Removing Suspect Applications
The key to resolving persistent Safe Mode issues often lies in identifying and removing the specific third-party application causing the problem.
- Review recent installations: Consider which apps you installed or updated shortly before your phone started behaving erratically or entering Safe Mode.
- Access the app list: In Safe Mode, go to Settings > Apps (or Application Manager). Downloaded apps are typically disabled, making them easier to identify.
- Uninstall suspected apps: Tap on an app you suspect is causing issues, then select 'Uninstall.'
- Perform a sequential uninstall: If unsure, uninstall recently added apps one by one. After each uninstall, restart your phone to exit Safe Mode and test functionality.
This methodical removal process helps isolate the problematic software. By systematically eliminating potential culprits, you can restore your Samsung phone to its normal operating state.
The goal of Safe Mode is to enable the uninstallation of misbehaving third-party apps.
Clearing System Cache Partition (Advanced Troubleshooting)
Sometimes, even after uninstalling problematic apps and restarting, a Samsung device might still behave erratically or display indicators like Safe Mode due to corrupted temporary system files. Clearing the system cache partition is an advanced troubleshooting step that can resolve such issues without deleting your personal data. This process involves booting your phone into the Android Recovery Menu, a hidden interface that allows for system maintenance tasks. It's important to approach this carefully, as accidental selections in the Recovery Menu can lead to data loss.
To access the Android Recovery Menu on most Samsung devices, you'll need to power off your phone completely. Then, press and hold a specific combination of hardware buttons. The exact combination can vary slightly by model, but it commonly involves the Power button and the Volume Up button. On newer models, you might need to connect the phone to a computer via USB cable first, and then press the Power and Volume Up buttons simultaneously. Continue holding these buttons until the Samsung logo appears, then release them. You should then see the Android Recovery Menu screen, characterized by its text-based interface.
Once you are in the Recovery Menu, navigation is done using the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons to move through the options, and the Power button to select an option. Look for an entry that reads 'Wipe cache partition.' This is the option you want to execute. Select it using the Power button. The system will ask for confirmation; again, use the Volume buttons to highlight 'Yes' and the Power button to confirm. The process of clearing the cache is usually very quick, taking only a few seconds.
After the cache partition has been wiped, you will be returned to the main Recovery Menu. The next step is to select 'Reboot system now' to restart your phone. This will boot your Samsung device back into its normal operating system. After the restart, check if your phone has exited Safe Mode and if the previous issues have been resolved. Clearing the cache partition is a powerful tool for resolving system glitches that might otherwise be difficult to diagnose and can often fix performance problems or unexpected behavior without affecting your installed apps or personal files.
Steps to Wipe Cache Partition
- Power off your Samsung device completely.
- Connect your phone to a computer using a USB cable (if required by your model).
- Press and hold the Power button and Volume Up button simultaneously until the Android Recovery Menu appears.
- Use the Volume buttons to navigate to 'Wipe cache partition.'
- Press the Power button to select it.
- Use the Volume buttons to highlight 'Yes' and press the Power button to confirm.
- Once the cache is wiped, select 'Reboot system now' using the Power button.
This process clears temporary system files that can sometimes cause instability or prevent a normal exit from Safe Mode, all without deleting your personal data.
Ensure you select 'Wipe cache partition' and not 'Wipe data/factory reset' to preserve your personal information.
Performing a Factory Data Reset (Last Resort)
If none of the previous methods—restarting, checking buttons, uninstalling apps, or clearing the cache—resolve your Samsung phone's Safe Mode issue, a factory data reset might be necessary. This is considered a last resort because it will erase all data on your device, returning it to its original factory settings. This includes all downloaded apps, accounts, settings, photos, videos, and messages. Therefore, it's crucial to back up your essential data before proceeding with a factory reset.
To perform a factory reset, you'll typically need to access the phone's settings menu. Navigate to 'Settings,' then scroll down to 'General management' or 'System.' Look for an option labeled 'Reset,' and then select 'Factory data reset.' You will be presented with a warning detailing what will be erased. Read this information carefully, and if you're ready, tap the 'Reset' button. You may need to enter your PIN, pattern, or password to confirm the action. The phone will then begin the reset process, which can take several minutes.
Alternatively, if you cannot access the settings menu due to the persistent Safe Mode issue, you can perform a factory reset using the Android Recovery Menu, similar to clearing the cache partition. Power off your device, then boot into Recovery Mode by holding the appropriate button combination (usually Power + Volume Up, potentially with USB connection). Once in the Recovery Menu, use the volume keys to navigate to 'Wipe data/factory reset.' Select this option with the Power button, confirm your choice by selecting 'Yes' or 'Factory data reset,' and then initiate the reboot process by selecting 'Reboot system now.'
After the factory reset is complete and your phone reboots, you will be guided through the initial setup process, just like when you first got the device. You can then choose to restore your data from a backup or set up the phone as new. This process effectively resolves most persistent software-related issues, including being stuck in Safe Mode, by providing a clean slate. However, if the problem persists even after a factory reset, it strongly suggests a hardware defect, and you should seek professional support or consider repair options.
Steps for Factory Data Reset (via Settings)
- Navigate to Settings on your Samsung phone.
- Tap General management or System.
- Select Reset.
- Choose Factory data reset.
- Review the information and tap Reset.
- Enter your security PIN, pattern, or password if prompted.
- Tap Delete all or Erase everything to confirm.
Always back up your important data before performing a factory data reset, as it will remove everything from your device.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
If you've diligently followed all the troubleshooting steps—restarting, checking buttons, uninstalling apps, clearing cache, and even performing a factory reset—and your Samsung phone remains stuck in Safe Mode or exhibits persistent software issues, it's time to acknowledge that the problem may be beyond user-level repair. This often indicates a more complex software corruption that your device's built-in tools cannot fix, or, more likely, a hardware malfunction. Professional diagnosis is crucial at this stage to avoid further complications or unnecessary attempts at fixes.
Several scenarios warrant seeking expert help. If a hardware button is physically damaged or unresponsive, it might require physical repair or replacement. If a factory reset does not resolve the Safe Mode issue, it points to a deep-seated problem within the device's internal storage or motherboard that requires specialized tools and knowledge. For instance, a faulty power management IC or a corrupted bootloader could prevent the device from exiting Safe Mode correctly. These are not issues that can be addressed through software tweaks alone.
The first point of contact for professional assistance is typically the manufacturer's official support channels. Samsung offers customer support via phone, online chat, and through their official website. They can guide you through advanced troubleshooting steps or arrange for device inspection and repair. Visiting an authorized Samsung service center or a reputable third-party repair shop that specializes in Samsung devices is also a viable option. They have the diagnostic equipment to pinpoint hardware failures and the expertise to perform necessary repairs.
When you seek professional help, be prepared to describe the symptoms clearly, including when the Safe Mode issue started, what troubleshooting steps you've already taken, and any recent events that might have preceded the problem (e.g., drops, water exposure, software updates). This information will assist the technician in diagnosing the issue more efficiently. Remember, attempting complex repairs yourself without the proper knowledge or tools can sometimes worsen the problem, making professional intervention the most prudent course of action for persistent issues.
Where to Find Samsung Support
- Samsung Official Support Website: Visit the support section for troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and contact options.
- Samsung Customer Service: Call their dedicated phone line for immediate assistance or to schedule a repair.
- Authorized Service Centers: Locate a certified Samsung repair shop to have your device inspected by trained technicians.
- Reputable Repair Shops: For out-of-warranty devices, consider trusted independent repair specialists experienced with Samsung phones.
Professional diagnosis is essential when software fixes fail and hardware issues are suspected.
Preventing Future Safe Mode Activation
Once you've successfully exited Safe Mode on your Samsung device and restored normal functionality, taking proactive steps can help prevent it from activating unintentionally in the future. While Safe Mode is a useful diagnostic tool, its unsolicited appearance can be disruptive. Understanding the common triggers allows you to manage your device more effectively and minimize the chances of encountering this troubleshooting state again. Prevention often involves careful app management and awareness of your device's software integrity.
The most frequent cause of accidental Safe Mode activation is the installation of poorly coded or incompatible third-party applications. To mitigate this, always download apps from reputable sources like the Google Play Store. Read app reviews carefully before installing, paying close attention to user feedback regarding stability and performance issues. Uninstall any app that causes your device to lag, crash, or behave erratically immediately. Regularly review your installed applications and remove any that you no longer use or that seem suspicious, as background processes from unused apps can sometimes cause conflicts.
Be cautious with software updates, both for individual apps and for the Android operating system itself. Ensure your phone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery charge before starting any update. If a system update causes issues, research online for common problems reported by other users and potential solutions. Sometimes, developers release patches to fix bugs introduced in updates, so keeping your apps updated can also resolve underlying conflicts. For apps that frequently cause problems, consider seeking alternatives.
Physical care of your device is also important. As mentioned, stuck hardware buttons are a common culprit. Keep your phone clean, free from dust and debris, especially around the button areas. Avoid using excessive force on the buttons. If you suspect a button is loose or not functioning correctly, address it promptly through repair before it causes persistent booting issues. By being mindful of app installations, update processes, and physical care, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of your Samsung phone entering Safe Mode unexpectedly.
Best Practices for Avoiding Safe Mode
- Install apps wisely: Download only from trusted sources and review user feedback for potential issues.
- Uninstall problematic apps promptly: Remove any app that causes crashes, slowdowns, or battery drain.
- Manage updates carefully: Ensure stable conditions during system and app updates.
- Keep buttons clean and functional: Prevent physical obstructions or damage to hardware buttons.
- Regularly review installed apps: Remove unused or suspicious applications.
Proactive app management and physical care are your best defenses against unexpected Safe Mode activation.
Understanding Samsung Pay and Safe Mode
If you frequently use Samsung Pay, you might wonder about its behavior when your device enters Safe Mode. Samsung Pay is a proprietary mobile payment and digital wallet service that relies on secure communication channels and the proper functioning of specific system services and downloaded applications. Due to its nature as a third-party application that interacts with sensitive financial information and requires network connectivity, Samsung Pay is generally disabled when your Samsung phone is operating in Safe Mode.
When your device boots into Safe Mode, it intentionally restricts the operation of all user-installed applications, including Samsung Pay. This means you will not be able to launch the Samsung Pay app, make payments, or access your stored cards or loyalty programs while in this diagnostic state. The purpose of Safe Mode is to troubleshoot system-level issues or problems caused by other apps, and running specialized applications like Samsung Pay would defeat this diagnostic objective. Therefore, the app will appear inactive or unavailable.
This behavior is by design. If you are trying to use Samsung Pay and your phone is in Safe Mode, the solution is simply to exit Safe Mode. Once your Samsung phone restarts into its normal operating environment, Samsung Pay should function as usual, provided there are no other underlying issues with the app itself or the device's network connectivity. If you exit Safe Mode and Samsung Pay still doesn't work, the problem might be specific to the Samsung Pay app, your account, or other system services required by the app.
To ensure Samsung Pay functions correctly after exiting Safe Mode, it's a good practice to open the app and verify its status. Check for any pending updates within the app or the Google Play Store. If issues persist, you might need to clear the cache and data for the Samsung Pay app through your phone's settings (Settings > Apps > Samsung Pay > Storage > Clear Cache/Clear Data), or even uninstall and reinstall the app. However, always ensure you have your payment card details readily available before clearing data or reinstalling, as you may need to re-enter them.
Samsung Pay is typically disabled and inaccessible while your phone is operating in Safe Mode.
Samsung Galaxy Camera and Safe Mode
The Samsung Galaxy camera application, a core feature of most Samsung smartphones, behaves differently when the device is in Safe Mode. As a pre-installed system application, the native Samsung Galaxy camera app is generally designed to function even when the phone is operating in Safe Mode. Unlike third-party apps which are completely disabled, the camera app, being integral to the operating system's core functionality, often remains accessible and operational.
This allows users to test the camera's performance in a stable environment, which can be useful for troubleshooting. If your phone is experiencing issues like freezing, crashing, or excessive battery drain, and you suspect a software conflict, you might want to test the camera to see if it works correctly. If the camera app itself is the source of the problem, its behavior in Safe Mode might provide clues. However, the main benefit is usually to rule out other apps interfering with system functions, allowing you to use the camera to document issues or simply verify basic device operation.
While the camera app may launch and function, its capabilities might be slightly limited compared to its performance in normal mode. For instance, certain advanced features or modes that rely on specific third-party integrations or intensive processing might not work as intended. Additionally, if the Safe Mode issue is related to storage or system resources, the camera's ability to save photos or videos might be affected. However, for basic photo and video capture, it should generally be usable.
After you successfully exit Safe Mode and return to normal operation, the Samsung Galaxy camera app should function without any limitations. If, after exiting Safe Mode, you encounter problems with the camera app—such as it failing to launch, crashing, or producing errors—the issue is likely unrelated to the Safe Mode itself. It could be a persistent bug within the camera app, a problem with storage, or even a hardware issue with the camera module. In such cases, standard troubleshooting steps for the camera app, such as clearing its cache and data, or even a factory reset, might be necessary.
The native Samsung Galaxy camera app typically remains functional in Safe Mode, allowing basic photo and video capture.
IMEI Verification and Safe Mode Concerns
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a unique number that identifies each mobile device. While Safe Mode is primarily concerned with software and application conflicts, there are indirect ways it can relate to IMEI verification. Your Samsung phone's IMEI is crucial for network registration, warranty claims, and device tracking. Accessing this information is usually done through the device's settings or by dialing a specific code. The question of whether Safe Mode affects IMEI verification arises when users are troubleshooting issues that might also impact their ability to check or use their IMEI.
During Safe Mode, your Samsung device operates with a limited set of drivers and services. This means that while the core operating system is running, some peripheral functions or advanced system utilities might not be fully accessible or might behave differently. However, the IMEI number itself is embedded in the device's hardware and firmware, and it is generally accessible regardless of whether the phone is in Safe Mode or normal mode. You can typically check your IMEI by going to Settings > About phone > Status information. This path should remain accessible even in Safe Mode for most Samsung devices.
If you are trying to perform IMEI verification for reasons such as checking if a phone is blacklisted, verifying its authenticity, or checking warranty status, doing so from within Safe Mode should not inherently prevent the verification process itself, provided you can access the IMEI number. You would still need to go to an IMEI checker website or use a service that requires this number. The process of submitting the IMEI to an external service is independent of the phone's current operating mode.
However, if your goal is to use Samsung's own online tools, such as a Samsung IMEI checker, you would typically do this from a separate device or a web browser on your Samsung phone in normal mode. If your phone is stuck in Safe Mode due to a severe issue, and you need to check its IMEI for, say, a warranty claim or repair service, you would first need to exit Safe Mode. A persistent Safe Mode issue that prevents normal operation might indirectly hinder your ability to perform necessary IMEI-related checks or actions until the phone is returned to its standard operating state. If you need to verify a Samsung IMEI, accessing the 'About phone' section in settings is the most direct method, and this should be available in Safe Mode.
Your Samsung phone's IMEI number is typically accessible from Settings > About phone > Status information, even when in Safe Mode.