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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsNo. As of Samsung UK support’s update on 24 April 2026, SmartThings Find can no longer remotely unlock a Samsung phone. If you have forgotten the screen PIN, pattern, or password and had no other unlock method set up, Samsung says a factory reset may be required. A reset erases local data; restoring it afterward depends on having a backup.
What to do if you forgot your screen lock
Use Samsung’s current Galaxy device lockout guidance for the options applicable to your device. Samsung says that when no remote unlock method was configured, you may need to factory reset the phone. That removes data stored locally on it. If you have a backup, you can restore backed-up data and settings after the reset; a backup is necessary for that restoration.
The cited guidance is from Samsung UK. Menu labels and available recovery options can vary by model, software version, and country, so follow the support instructions for your region and device rather than assuming a button sequence applies to every Galaxy phone.
Why old Remote Unlock instructions no longer work
Samsung’s older instructions described unlocking through Find My Mobile after forgetting a pattern, PIN, or password. The workflow required the phone to be powered on and connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data, registered to a Samsung account, and configured with Remote unlock before the owner was locked out. Those steps document a former feature, not a current recovery method.
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- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Samsung Canada’s support knowledgebase says the legacy Remote unlock function no longer works, even if its setting temporarily remains visible. Samsung notes that removal timing can vary with software generation, device model, and market. Seeing the old toggle—or finding a video or help page that describes it—is not evidence that the phone can still be unlocked this way.
Forgotten lock or lost phone? Choose the right action
| Situation | Samsung service action | What it does | Data impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| You have the phone but forgot its screen credential | Samsung’s current lockout guidance | Remote unlock through SmartThings Find is no longer available; a factory reset may be required if no other unlock method was set up. | A factory reset erases local data. Restore from a backup if one exists. |
| Your phone is missing or stolen | SmartThings Find or Samsung Find | Depending on the device and settings, you may be able to locate it, lock it, or erase its data. | Locking helps secure a missing phone; it does not remove a forgotten screen credential. Erasing is destructive. |
Samsung’s lost-device guidance, Samsung Find instructions, and SmartThings Find support page cover locating and securing devices, not bypassing a forgotten screen lock. Availability and controls depend on the phone and its settings; current location or remote-control features generally require the device to be powered on and connected. If it is off, only its last known location may be available.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Be cautious of claims to unlock without data loss
Samsung’s current support material does not establish a way to use SmartThings Find to bypass a forgotten PIN, pattern, or password while preserving local data. Do not rely on third-party “unlocker” claims as a substitute for Samsung’s documented recovery options. Also, enabling the old Remote unlock setting after you are locked out cannot help: historically, it had to be enabled in advance, and Samsung now says the remote-unlock function is unavailable.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Sources and scope
- Samsung UK’s “I can’t unlock my Samsung Galaxy device” page, updated 24 April 2026, provides the current remote-unlock status and lockout guidance.
- Samsung Canada’s Remote unlock termination FAQ explains why the legacy setting may still appear.
- Samsung’s Saudi Arabia forgotten-password page, updated 12 August 2020, describes the old workflow and should be treated as historical guidance only.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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