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If you changed your Galaxy screen lock within the last 72 hours, you may be able to replace it without erasing the phone: on supported devices running One UI 6.1 or later, Samsung can let you use the previous pattern, PIN, or password. If that option is unavailable, the documented alternatives are factory resets, which erase the device. Check the non-erasing recovery first, then confirm your backups and account credentials before choosing a reset.
Try your previous screen lock first
Samsung’s previous-lock recovery is a limited option, not a general way to bypass a forgotten pattern. It applies to supported Galaxy devices running One UI 6.1 or later when you changed your pattern, PIN, or password within the past 72 hours, retained the previous lock, and still remember it. Samsung says the feature is available once per lock type after a change. Samsung’s Galaxy lock recovery guide was last updated July 10, 2026.
- On the locked screen, make at least five unsuccessful attempts until the recovery prompt appears. Depending on the lock type, it may say Forgot pattern?, Forgot PIN?, or Forgot password?.
- Choose the prompt and enter the previous pattern, PIN, or password.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to create and confirm a new screen lock.
You have three attempts to enter the previous lock through this recovery flow. If you are unsure of it, do not spend those attempts guessing. Screen wording and availability can vary by model and software version.
Before choosing a factory reset
A factory reset removes local data from the phone. Data you did not back up or sync may not be recoverable; a reset is not a way to regain access to the old local files. Samsung says its SmartThings Find erase permanently deletes data that cannot be recovered, and Google says Find Hub erase permanently deletes data. Check what is backed up and whether you can sign in to the accounts already associated with the phone before proceeding.
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A reset can also trigger Factory Reset Protection (FRP). During setup, you may be asked to verify the Google account previously registered on the device. Samsung describes FRP as applying to Android 5.1 and later and advises contacting a service center if you cannot complete verification. Review Samsung UK’s factory-reset guidance and Samsung US’s reset and account-verification information.
Choose a reset route
| Route | Local data | Requirements and limits |
|---|---|---|
| Previous-lock recovery | Can preserve data if successful | Supported Galaxy on One UI 6.1 or later; previous lock retained and known; lock changed within 72 hours. Prompt after five or more failed attempts; three tries for the previous lock. |
| SmartThings Find erase | Erases data permanently | Samsung account and eligible device setup; an offline phone is erased when it next comes online. FRP may require the previously used Google account. |
| Button/recovery-mode reset | Erases data | Button sequence varies by model and software. Google account verification may be required during setup. |
| Google Find Hub erase | Erases data permanently | Device must have power and network access, be signed in to a Google account, have Find Hub enabled, and be visible on Google Play. The Google account password may be needed afterward. |
Erase with SmartThings Find
If the phone was registered and configured for Samsung’s find service, use a browser or another device to open Samsung’s SmartThings Find erase instructions. Sign in to the Samsung account, select the registered phone, and choose Erase data. You need access to that Samsung account. If the device is offline, Samsung says the erase takes place when it next comes online. Remote controls and service availability depend on the device’s setup and region; Samsung’s US lost-device guide describes the setup and connectivity conditions for its find services.
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Reset with device buttons
Samsung supports factory reset through device buttons and recovery mode, but there is no single button sequence that is safe to present as universal for every Galaxy model. Find the procedure for your exact model and region on Samsung Support, then follow its instructions for Wipe data/factory reset. Google also directs users to the manufacturer for button-based reset steps. A recovery-mode reset does not remove ownership verification.
Erase with Google Find Hub
Google’s Android lockout and erase guidance describes Find Hub as an option when the phone has power and network access, is signed in to a Google account, has Find Hub enabled, and is visible on Google Play. After an erase, you may need the Google account password to use the phone again.
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- Ships in non-retail box with generic charger and USB cable only. No any other accessories included.
- Model: Samsung Galaxy A11 A115U 32GB
- This device is GSM unlocked and will work with T-Mobile, Sprint. Not compatible with Cricket and any other CDMA network. To ensure this phone will work with your carrier please check to make sure the frequencies your carrier uses are supported by this phone.
- No longer compatible with AT&T networks
Why older “Forgot pattern” instructions may not work
Google’s account-based Forgot pattern recovery flow is documented for Android 4.4 or lower. It is not the current general recovery method for modern Android phones. For a current device that cannot be unlocked through its supported recovery option, Google’s guidance is to erase it and set it up again.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If you cannot verify the accounts or find the right reset steps
Pause before erasing the phone if you cannot access the Google account previously used on it, or the Samsung account needed for remote erase. Check the model-specific instructions with Samsung Support or visit an authorized service center. Do not rely on third-party tools or paid pattern-removal claims as a substitute for the documented recovery and reset procedures; the official guidance cited here does not establish that they can unlock the phone or preserve its data.
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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.
