Fingerprint sensors and facial recognition systems are becoming more frequent in smartphones, but security patterns or passwords continue to be among the preferred options and, in many cases, essential to access certain functions of your device. But what to do if your memory plays tricks on you and you forget your password or PIN? It is always useful to know how to unlock an Android phone in simple steps.
Use Find My Device
If your phone has Android 5.0 Lollipop, Android 6.0 Marshmallow, Android 7.0 Nougat, or a later version of Android, then your best option is to use Find My Device by Google.
You will need to know the email address and password for your Google account, and your device must be switched on and connected to the Internet for it to work. These are the steps:
- Visit the Find My Device site on your computer, laptop or other device and log in with your Google account.
- This is probably the default for your current phone, but if you have multiple registered devices, you can select the correct device by clicking on its icon and name in the upper left corner of the page.
- Click the Lock option on the left.
- You will be asked to enter a new password and confirm it. Be sure to remember the password you choose!
- You can now go back to your Android device and enter the newly created password to gain access.
Use Samsung Find My Mobile
If you have a Samsung phone, created a Samsung account, and activated Find My Mobile during the setup process, then you can also use this feature to remotely unlock your phone.
You will need to know the email address and password associated with your Samsung account and your device must be turned on and connected to the Internet. This is how you do it:
- Visit the Find My Mobile website on your computer, laptop or other device and log in with your Samsung account.
- Your current device and your phone number should be displayed in the upper left corner of the page. Browse the options on the right side of the page and click Unlock my device.
- Then you can remotely unlock your phone by entering your password for your Samsung account.
Unlock Android 4.4 KitKat or earlier devices
The unlock process is much easier when you forget your password, pattern or PIN on an older Android device. After entering the wrong PIN five times, a message will appear in the login window that says “Forgot pattern,” “Forgot PIN,” or “Forgot password.” Tap any of those options and enter your username and password for your Google account to change your password, PIN or pattern. This will give you immediate access.
Can’t remember your Google account?
If you’re having trouble remembering your Google account details, visit the Google Account Recovery website on your computer or laptop and follow the instructions.
Use Factory Data Reset
Your last resort is to perform a factory data reset through the recovery mode menu, but this will erase everything on the phone. Also, be aware that your computer may have Factory Reset Protection (FRP), which is automatically activated on all Android 5.1 and later devices to deter thieves. If FRP is activated, you will be asked for your Google account details even after performing a reset.
Once reset, you will have to configure your phone as if it were new. And this time be sure to write down your new password in a safe place.
