Xperia ZL Walkman bug: freezes, then crashes (10.3.1.A.0.244)

[smithcu_gmail_c]

Ever since my most recent update to 10.3.1.A.0.244, my Walkman software has been randomly crashing.  I cannot find a pattern to it, but I will be listening to a podcast, and suddenly I will hear a click and there will be a short break in the sound, or the sound will just stop.  I try to press play, back, pause, etc, but the phone is frozen.  I usually have to wait a minute or two before it comes back to life.  The battery is then much lower, too. 

Today, I was not able to stop the Walkman playback using the earphone control or the screen lock widget, so I unlocked the screen and stopped playback.  Five minutes later, the playback resumed on its own.  Help, please!

[shihstouch · Accepted solution]

Have you tried this?

There are a few things you should try first when you experience problems with your device:

• 
  Restart

  Restart your phone to turn off all running applications and to free up memory. Remove the SIM and memory card cover. Press and hold down the OFF button using the tip of a pen or a similar object. After your device vibrates three times, release the button. Then restart your phone.

• 
  Update

  Update your phone to ensure that you have optimal performance and the latest enhancements.

  http://www.sonymobile.com/gb/tools/update-service/

• Reset

  Reset your phone to its original settings to remove memory blocks: Settings > Backup & reset > Factory data reset > Reset phone Don't forget to back up any important data saved on your phone!