Have you been locked out of your Android smartphone? No worries, there are several methods of getting back into your Android phone when you forget your password, PIN, or pattern lock. Please note that some of these methods will only work on newer or older versions of Android or the OEM who makes your Android phone, etc. Let’s check out each of them below.
Techjaja Suggestion: Find My Device (Works for Android 2.3 and up)
This is the simplest and best way to regain access to your smartphone or tablet after you forget your PIN code. As long as you’re logged into your Google Account on your phone, it will work for you.
On your laptop or computer, log in to Google’s Find My Device service, formerly known as Android Device Manager, and select the device in question from the list of devices associated with your account. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, you then tap “Lock”. Once you lock your phone with a new code, it overrides the original code that you had forgotten. Then, finally, you have access to your phone again!
For Samsung smartphones
Some smartphone manufacturers often bundle their own security software into a device, such as Find My Mobile by Samsung. Such features can be particularly useful for getting past the lock screen, but you will have to have set this up already.
If you did, just visit the corresponding website from another device or PC and unlock your phone from there.
Use your Google account (Android 4.4 and lower)
So, you’re locked out of your device and cannot remember your pattern unlock. What do you do? Thankfully, you don’t need to panic, since there is a pretty straightforward way to get into your device.
- Attempt the pattern unlock five times (maybe you’ll get lucky and guess/remember it!).
- After the fifth attempt, you’ll be locked out, but an option at the bottom of the screen will appear that says “Forgot Pattern”. Click on it.
- Sign into your Google Account.
- Once authenticated with your Google Account, you’ll be able to choose a new PIN, pattern, lock, etc., and unlock your device.
Do you have any other tips for bypassing the lock screen on Android? Have your attempts to reset your PIN code been successful? Let us know in the comments.
