iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Sometimes you can erase a device without entering its PIN, but that does not guarantee you can set it up and use it afterward. A reset deletes data on the device, and setup may still require the screen lock or an account previously linked to it. The answer depends on the device and on whether the missing credential is a parental-controls PIN, a screen-lock PIN, an Apple Screen Time passcode, or an account password.
First identify which PIN is missing
These credentials serve different purposes and are not interchangeable. Before trying a reset, note the device’s make and model and identify the prompt you cannot get past.
- Parental-controls PIN: Restricts settings or content on the device. Android’s built-in parental controls have a recovery route if a recovery account was configured.
- Screen-lock PIN: Unlocks the phone or tablet itself. Google says a locked Android phone must be erased before it can be set up again with a new screen lock.
- Apple Screen Time passcode: Controls Screen Time settings and is separate from the Apple device’s unlock passcode.
- Account password: Signs in to a Google or Apple account. A factory reset is not a substitute for account credentials that may be required during setup.
Choose the recovery route for the device
Android built-in parental controls
If the prompt is for Android’s on-device parental-controls PIN, open the controls in Settings and look for Forgot PIN. Google says this option resets the PIN through the recovery account configured for the feature. If no recovery account was set up, Google’s documented fallback is a factory reset. Deleting the PIN turns off those on-device controls. Menu names and availability can depend on the Android version and device. Google’s Android Help explains the parental-controls PIN recovery options.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Family Link-supervised Google account
For a child’s account supervised with Family Link, a parent can select the child’s device in the Family Link app and choose Reset device & delete data. This is a parent-managed device reset, not a way to recover the child’s screen-lock PIN. Keep device reset separate from deleting the child’s Google Account: Google warns that deleting the account before removing it from a signed-in device can lock that device and require a factory reset. Account deletion can also remove data and access to purchases. Google’s Family Link help describes resetting a child’s device.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatibility - 10 inch tablet(Only 13/11th Geneartion, 2023/2021 Released models). Not compatible with Samsung iPad 10.1 inch Tablets or other versions.
- Kids-proof material made with durable lightweight shock-absorbing EVA foam, Protect your tablet from bumps, drops, dust, and scratches.Note: Incompatible with iPad Samsung 10inch or another 10inch models.
- The built-in foldable kickstand provides you multiple angles for hands-free watching and easy typing, with portable one handed grip carrying handle easy for kids to carry it around, it’s a perfect gift for children.
- All ports, buttons and speakers have precise cutouts, gives easy access to charging port, speakers,cameras and power buttons without removing the tablet case.
- 【HOW TO INSTALL】: You can see there is a BLACK FRAME inside the tablet case when you getting it, please take it off before installing your tablet. Then you can adjust the stand on the back of the case to proper angle and enjoy your time!
Family Link controls are not identical across platforms. Google says some features—including app management, Chrome filtering, and screen-time limits—do not apply to a child’s activity on iOS or the web. See Google’s Family Link FAQ for platform limits.
Locked Android phone
Google says a locked Android phone must be erased before it can be set up again with a new screen lock. Erasing removes data stored on the phone. A reset using power and volume buttons may be possible, but Google does not give one universal button sequence; it directs users to the phone manufacturer’s instructions for the exact model. Google’s Android instructions cover erasing a locked phone.
Rank #2
- 【Fire HD 8 Tablet Case & Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet Case】Designed for New Fire HD 8 & Fire HD 8 Plus Tablet, Fire HD 8 Kids & Fire HD 8 Kids Pro Tablet (Compatible with 8 inch display,12th/10th generation, 2024/2022/2020 release). NOT suitable for other tablets. Please check your tablet model before ordering (WITHOUT SCREEN PROTECTOR).
- 【Shockproof & Dropproof】Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet case for kids, made of premium shock-absorbing EVA material, thick foam fully covers the back and edges, providing excellent protection against accidental drops, bumps and scratches for your Fire HD 8 tablets.
- 【Two Angle Kickstand】Fire HD 8 case with built-in foldable stand like spider's eyes gives your tablet strong support and offers your tablet two angles with vertical viewing and horizontal typing. It frees your hands and makes your life unrestrained.
- 【Precise Cutouts】Amazon Fire 8 tablet case offers precise cutouts that provide perfect access to all features and controls including charging port, cameras, speakers and power buttons for your Fire HD 8 tablet. Also, there is no need to remove the fire 8 tablet case to charge or take pictures.
- 【Kids Case for Amazon Kindle Fire HD 8 Tablet】 Kindle fire 8 case with super lightweight EVA foam plus one-hand grip, makes fire hd 8 kids case suitable for kids to carry around and enjoy outdoor activities. Flexible and fun, fire tablet 8 case is a perfect gift for kids.
Apple Screen Time passcode for a child
If Family Sharing manages the child’s Apple Account, Apple says the family organizer or a parent or guardian must reset the Screen Time passcode from their own device—not the child’s. This recovers access to Screen Time settings; it is not a factory-reset bypass. Apple’s instructions explain how to reset a child’s Screen Time passcode.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhat a factory reset does—and what it does not do
A factory reset erases local data on the device. It does not necessarily remove ownership checks or let you bypass the account previously associated with the device. Before resetting, consider whether you have a backup and can sign in to the account that was already on the device.
Rank #3
- POWERFUL ANDROID 15 PERFORMANCE WITH AI SUPPORT – Powered by Android 15, a fast 4-core processor, and 64 GB of built-in storage, this 10.1-inch kids tablet provides smooth performance for educational apps, videos, games, and everyday entertainment. Expand storage up to 1 TB with a microSD card for more books, photos, music, and videos. With access to Gemini AI, children can explore questions, better understand concepts, and receive interactive learning support under parental guidance.
- GOOGLE KIDS SPACE AND EASY PARENTAL CONTROLS – tablet comes with Google Kids Space, giving children access to age-appropriate books, videos, creative activities, puzzles, and educational apps. Parents can manage screen time, approve or block apps, filter content, and set daily limits through parental controls, helping create a safer and more balanced digital environment for children ages 3 and up.
- 10.1-INCH HD IPS DISPLAY WITH EYE-COMFORT FEATURES – Enjoy clear, colorful visuals on the 1280 × 800 HD IPS glass display. Low-blue-light technology, eye-protection mode, and automatic brightness adjustment help provide a more comfortable viewing experience during reading, learning, video watching, and gaming. The spacious 10.1-inch screen makes content easier for young children to see and navigate.
- KID-PROOF EVA CASE WITH STAND – Designed for everyday bumps and drops, the lightweight EVA protective case provides a comfortable, child-friendly grip and added impact protection. Precisely aligned openings keep the camera, buttons, speakers, and charging port easy to access
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY AND 2-YEAR WARRANTY – The optimized battery system is designed to support extended use for learning apps, videos, reading, and games, while Android 15 helps improve power efficiency. With its educational features, durable protective case, and child-friendly design, this toddler tablet makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions. Backed by a 2-year warranty and responsive customer support for added peace of mind.
Pixel Tablet example: setup may still require prior credentials
Google’s Pixel Tablet guidance says a reset through Settings asks for the screen lock. A button reset may require the tablet’s PIN, password, pattern, or a Google Account previously synced to it. Google warns that without the required information during setup, “you won’t be able to use the device at all after factory reset.” This is specific to Google’s Pixel Tablet guidance; it should not be treated as a guarantee about every Android phone or tablet. Google Pixel Tablet Help explains ownership verification after a reset.
Before you reset
- Identify the device and prompt. Record the exact model and whether the missing credential is for parental controls, the screen lock, Screen Time, or an account.
- Try the platform’s recovery route first. Use the configured recovery account for Android on-device controls, the parent’s Family Link controls for a supervised device, or the family organizer’s device for a child’s Screen Time passcode.
- Check your data and account access. A reset erases data stored on the device. Confirm you have any needed backup and can access the account that may be requested during setup.
- Use the official instructions for the exact model. For a hardware-button reset, follow the manufacturer’s support guidance; button sequences differ by device.
If the device is not Android or Apple
The documented routes above do not establish reset behavior for Amazon Fire devices, Chromebooks, smart TVs, or manufacturer-specific kids modes. For those, look up the official support instructions for the exact model and identify whether the prompt is a child-mode PIN, screen lock, or account sign-in. Do not assume a reset removes a setup lock.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 【Compatibility】Specially designed for 10-inch, perfectly fitting the body. Please confirm your device model before purchasing to avoid placing an incorrect order.
- 【 Portable Design 】The protective case adopts an integrated handle design, which conforms to ergonomic principles and is comfortable to hold and easy to carry. Built in fixed landscape stand structure provides stable support, allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable viewing experience, especially suitable for long-term binge watching or video calling.
- 【Comprehensive Protection】In terms of protective performance, high-density EVA cushioning materials are selected to effectively resist accidental drops during daily use.
- 【Child safety】Considering the safety of children's use, environmentally friendly and non-toxic materials are used. All edges and corners have been rounded to avoid scratches, and a variety of bright and lively color options are provided to meet the aesthetic needs of different users.
- 【Intelligent Hole Opening】Using precision craftsmanship to ensure that the charging interface, speaker, camera, and various functional buttons can all be used normally. Each opening position has been repeatedly tested to ensure protection performance without affecting the normal operation of the equipment.
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.
