Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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
If you changed your Galaxy screen lock recently, Samsung may let you use the previous PIN, password, or pattern to set a new one without erasing the device. If that option is unavailable, Samsung Find and Google Find My Device can reset an eligible phone—but those routes erase its data and may require the Google account already registered on it during setup. There is no supported way to bypass that ownership protection.
Try the previous screen lock first
Samsung says some Galaxy devices running One UI 6.1 or later allow the previous PIN, password, or pattern to be used for up to 72 hours after the lock method is changed. This is a limited recovery window, not a general way to unlock a device: the previous method can be used once per lock type, and availability depends on the model and software.
- After five or more unsuccessful attempts, check whether the lock screen offers a forgotten PIN, password, or pattern option. Samsung says this option appears on supported devices; do not keep guessing if it does not appear.
- Choose the displayed recovery option and enter the previous screen lock when prompted.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set a new lock method.
Samsung India’s guidance describes this feature for eligible devices. Screen wording, images, and availability can vary by model and software version. Samsung’s forgotten-lock instructions explain the flow.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesKnow what a remote reset does before using it
If the previous-lock recovery option is unavailable, Samsung Find or SmartThings Find may be able to erase a registered Galaxy device. This is a reset, not a data-preserving unlock: it deletes data stored on the device. Samsung’s U.S. guidance says the phone or tablet must be on and connected to a stable network, have a Samsung account added, and have remote controls enabled. If the device is offline, an erase request may wait until it reconnects.
#1 Best Overall
- 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’s remote-find services and their availability can vary by region and setup. Before requesting an erase, consider whether your important data is backed up. If a Google account was registered on the device, Google device protection may require that account during setup afterward. See Samsung’s guidance on finding or managing a Galaxy device remotely.
Use Google Find My Device only if a reset is acceptable
Samsung also documents Google Find My Device as a way to reset a Galaxy device that was set up with a Google account. Like a Samsung remote erase, this deletes device data; it does not unlock the existing screen while preserving local files. The service must be able to act on the device, and you will need to complete initial setup and any ownership checks after the reset.
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.
Samsung’s troubleshooting guidance describes the Google Find My Device reset route. Check that you can access the accounts you will need before choosing it.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Understand factory reset protection before resetting
A factory reset deletes personal data and does not necessarily remove the ownership checks built into the device. Samsung’s official U.S. support guidance explains that Google Factory Reset Protection (FRP) may require the Google account previously registered on the Galaxy during setup. For Android 9 and later, the screen-lock method previously configured on the device may also be offered to verify ownership.
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.
“Google Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is a security feature designed to help protect your device if it is lost or stolen.”
— Samsung, U.S. factory-reset and protection guidance.
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.
If you cannot remember or access the required credentials, do not look for a bypass tool or attempt to defeat FRP. Contact Samsung support or an authorized service center and follow its proof-of-ownership guidance. Samsung does not promise a general recovery outcome for devices whose ownership cannot be verified.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchChoose the route that matches your situation
| Route | Effect on data | Key conditions | What to expect next |
|---|---|---|---|
| Previous PIN, password, or pattern | Intended to restore access without a reset | Eligible One UI 6.1 or later device; previous method retained for up to 72 hours; once per lock type | Set a new screen lock |
| Samsung Find or SmartThings Find erase | Deletes device data | Samsung account and device setup; applicable connectivity and remote-control conditions | Google device protection may ask for the previously registered Google account |
| Google Find My Device reset | Deletes device data | Device set up with a Google account and service able to act on it | Complete setup and ownership verification |
| Samsung support or authorized service | No general recovery outcome is promised | Use when reset or ownership verification cannot be completed | Follow official support and proof-of-ownership guidance |
The practical distinction is simple: try the recent previous-lock option if you qualify and want to preserve data. Choose a remote reset only if you accept erasure and can complete the account checks afterward. If you cannot verify ownership, contact Samsung rather than attempting to bypass the lock.
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
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.
