How to unlock an Android phone

💡 Need to know

• No bypass option. If you forgot your PIN or pattern, a reset is the only way back in.
• Google login required. After resetting, you’ll need the original account to unlock it.
• Remote erase can help. Use Find My Device if the phone is online.
• Brand tools vary. Samsung phones may unlock through Find My Mobile if it was set up.

Getting locked out of your Android™ phone can be frustrating—especially if you’ve forgotten your PIN, password, or pattern. Whether you’re trying to access your device or figure out what “unlocked” means when buying a phone, we’re here to help. At Asurion, we help millions of people take care of their tech every day. Here's our expert's guide to what to do when you need to get back into your locked Android phone.

What does it mean to unlock an Android phone?

Before you try to unlock your phone, it's important to understand what kind of lock you're dealing with.

• Screen lock: This is the PIN, password, pattern, or biometric (fingerprint or face) lock that keeps others from accessing your phone.
• Carrier lock: Some phones only work with the network from the company you bought it from. Unlocked Android phones can be used with any carrier that supports the phone.

How to unlock your Android phone

If you're locked out of your screen, try these steps:

• If you know your PIN or password: Enter it on the lock screen to unlock your phone.
• Using biometrics: If you've set up fingerprint or face unlock, you can use that instead.

How to unlock an Android phone if you forgot the PIN

If you can't remember your PIN, Android security now requires a full factory reset to regain access. Note: This will erase all data on the device.

Use Google Find My Device

If your phone is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data, you can reset it from any browser:

1. Go to the Google Find My Device website and sign in with the Google account synced to your phone.
2. Select your locked device from the list.
3. Choose Factory Reset Device.
4. Once the process finishes, the PIN is removed, and you can sign back in with your Google credentials.

Manual factory reset

Use this method if your phone is offline or not appearing in Find My Device. The button combinations vary slightly by brand:

• Samsung: Power off. Connect to a computer via USB cable. Press and hold Volume Up + Power until the logo appears.
• Pixel/Other Android: Power off. Press and hold Volume Down + Power until you see a "Fastboot" menu. Use volume keys to select Recovery Mode and tap the Power button.
• Once in the Recovery menu, use the volume buttons to highlight Wipe data/factory reset and press the Power button to confirm.

🚨 Important: Factory Reset Protection (FRP)

If Factory Reset Protection is turned on, you'll be asked to provide your Google account login info. This feature makes sure that someone else can't wipe your phone if it's lost or stolen.

What to do if nothing works

If you've tried everything and still can't unlock your phone, an expert at your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion can take a look at your device and help you get back in. They also offer data recovery options in some cases.

How to avoid getting locked out again

Here are a few tips to make sure you don’t get locked out of your Android phone in the future:

• Write down your PIN and keep it in a safe place.
• Set up a backup unlocking method, like a fingerprint or pattern.
• Use a password manager to store important login information.
• Regularly back up your Android phone so you don’t lose data if you need to reset it.

FAQ

What is the difference between a locked and unlocked Android phone?

A locked phone is tied to a specific carrier, while an unlocked phone can be used with any compatible carrier.

How do I unlock my Android phone without losing data?

You may be able to use biometric unlock or contact the manufacturer. Most other methods, like a factory reset, will erase your data.

Can I unlock my Android phone without a Google account?

To unlock the phone remotely, you usually need the Google account linked to the phone. Without it, you may need a factory reset.

Is it safe to use third-party apps to unlock my phone?

It's best to avoid third-party unlocking apps. They can be risky and might not work.

How much does it cost to unlock a phone at uBreakiFix® by Asurion?

Costs vary depending on the phone and issue. Visit your nearest store for a free diagnostic.