We’ve been taking some time to go over the more common BlackBerry error messages and what you can do to fix them without too much of a headache. Today we’re going to run down error 523, one that destroyed my BlackBerry Curve 8330 — twice. Unfortunately, this workaround wouldn’t have helped me much. It requires booting in safe mode, which is available only on devices running OS 4.6 and up (I had 4.5 on my 8330). But if you’re using a newer BlackBerry and run into this, you can try to work around the error and get your device back up and running.
Once you see the dreaded white error screen, pop your battery. Once you reinsert it and the device starts booting, hold down the escape key. I’m not sure exactly how long you need to hold it, but keep on holding it, just to be safe, until you see that the device is booting in safe mode. Again, you need OS 4.6 or above to do this.
Here’s the strange part, one that many users wouldn’t think of: disconnect your computer from the Internet. once you’re offline, plug your dying device into the computer and run Desktop Manager. From there you go to Application Loader, Add/Remove Applications, and click Start. The key here is to bump any applications you’ve recently installed — ones that might have caused the near-fatal change. I also recommend removing themes, as this is something I did after messing around with Application Loader for a while.
After this, back up your device. I wholeheartedly recommend a full wipe after fixing this error. This could extend the life of your device. I do recommend, however, that you remain open to picking up a new Berry. After I initially fixed my Error 523, it happened again about a month later. In other words, it might be a chronic problem.
If you’re having trouble with other error messages, send them in: jpawlikowski at the bbgeeks.com address. If you have the workaround to go along with it, all the better.
