A factory reset on a Galaxy Note20 erases personal data and settings stored on the phone and returns it to initial setup. It does not erase data on an external microSD card, and the available Samsung guidance does not say that resetting changes the phone’s carrier-unlock status. If Factory Reset Protection is active, setup may ask for a Google Account previously used on the device.
What a factory reset removes from the Note20
Samsung’s Galaxy Note20 5G / Note20 Ultra 5G user manual says a factory data reset permanently erases data on the device. That includes Google and other account settings, system and app data and settings, downloaded apps, and files such as music, photos, and videos. Files stored only in the phone’s internal storage will not be available after the reset, so copy anything you need before proceeding.
The reset is not a backup. Google says backed-up data associated with a Google Account may be restored during setup, but apps and their data are uninstalled, and some app data may not be included in Google backup. Check that the particular photos, files, and app information you care about are backed up before wiping the phone: Google’s Android factory-reset guidance.
External microSD card
The manual explicitly states: “Any data stored on an external SD card is not affected.” If you are selling or giving away the phone, remove the card or erase it separately if you do not want its contents to go with the device.
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- The Galaxy Note20 features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display with Full HD+ resolution and HDR10+ support, offering bright, vibrant colors and sharp detail, making it perfect for productivity, streaming, and gaming.
Will resetting an unlocked Note20 lock it again?
Factory reset and carrier unlocking are separate issues. The Samsung reset instructions and Note20 manual explain the data wipe and post-reset account checks; they do not establish that a reset changes a phone’s carrier-unlock status. Do not rely on a reset to unlock a carrier-locked phone, or assume it will revoke an existing unlock. For a specific phone’s lock eligibility or status, check with the carrier and account associated with it.
Will the Note20 ask for the old Google Account?
It may. When Factory Reset Protection (FRP), also called Google Device Protection, is active, Samsung says setup after a reset can require the username and password of a Google Account previously registered on the phone. Samsung specifically warns that a reset performed with device buttons may prompt for those credentials. Have access to the account before resetting; without the required account information, you may be unable to complete setup.
Rank #2
- 6.7", 2400 x 1080 (FHD+), Infinity-O Super AMOLED+ Display, 4300mAh Battery, Android 10, upgradable to Android 11, One UI 3.0
- 128GB ROM, 8GB RAM, No SD Card Slot, Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G+ (7nm+), Octa-Core, Adreno 650
- Rear Camera: 12MP, f/1.8 + 64MP, f/2.0, 3x hybrid zoom + 12MP, f/2.2, Front Camera: 10 MP, f/2.2
- 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900, CDMA 800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, 4G LTE: B1(2100),B2(1900),B3(1800),B4(AWS),B5(850),B7(2600),B8(900),B12(700),B13(700),B14(700),B18(800),B19(800),B20(800),B25(1900),B26(850),B28(700),B29(700),B30(2300),B38(2600),B39(1900),B40(2300),B41(2500),B46(5200),B66(AWS-3), 5G: 2/5/41/66/71/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Single SIM
- Compatible with Most GSM and CDMA Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon and Sprint.
What to check before you reset
- Back up internal files and any app data you need. Google Account backup can restore some data, but it does not guarantee that every app or its data is included.
- Confirm you know the Google Account username and password used on the phone, as well as the screen-lock PIN, pattern, or password.
- If you recently changed the Google Account password, Google advises waiting 24 hours before resetting. Samsung’s manual also says a Google password reset may take 24 hours to sync to devices.
- If the phone is changing hands, remove the microSD card or handle its contents separately.
- Check the exact on-screen reset prompt and your carrier’s guidance before proceeding if the phone uses an eSIM. The available Samsung guidance does not establish whether every Note20 variant retains or removes its eSIM profile during reset.
Reset from Settings or use button recovery?
Use the Settings route when you can access the phone. If Settings is unavailable, Samsung’s recovery instructions describe a hardware-button route, including Note20 models. Both routes erase device data; a button-based reset can also lead to Google account verification when Device Protection is active.
| Route | When it applies | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Settings | You can unlock and navigate the phone. | Use the factory-reset option in Settings. Menu names can vary by software version, model, and service provider. |
| Hardware-button recovery | You cannot open Settings. | Samsung’s UK recovery instructions include Note20 models and describe using Volume Up, Home, and Side buttons to open recovery. Google account verification may be required afterward. |
Button combinations and screens can differ by model and software. Follow Samsung’s instructions for the exact device rather than assuming a combination from another Galaxy model will apply. Samsung also notes that available screens and settings may vary by service provider, software version, and phone model.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Galaxy Note20 Ultra features a massive 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Quad HD+ resolution, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, and HDR10+ support, offering incredibly smooth visuals, vibrant colors, and precise touch response, perfect for gaming, media, and professional work.
Rank #4
- S Pen & Samsung Notes: Pen accuracy meets PC power with S Pen and Samsung Notes; So responsive, it feels like you're using a real pen; sketch notes, ideas and then convert into Microsoft Word or PowerPoint, save and sync across all your Galaxy devices
- SMART BATTERY & SUPER FAST CHARGING - Adaptive power meets your needs with an all-day smart battery that learns from how you work and play to optimize battery life; Plus, super fast charging boosts your battery in just minutes
- Games: Bring the ultimate Galaxy mobile gaming experience in the palm of your hand; With an impressive screen refresh rate, almost infinite display, Galaxy 5G support, and an advanced processor, you get a smooth gaming experience with virtually no lags
- HyperFast Processor - Multitasking with Samsung fastest note processor yet; Hyperfast process speeds transform your game and attraction with less interruption; Capture every idea, knockout work, big mark and share all your moments without slowing down
- Link to Windows: Manage mobile and Windows apps directly on your PC screen with seamless multitasking integration; easily share files between your phone and PC with a simple drag and drop
Rank #3
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - Cellular Phone
- Connectivity Technology - Bluetooth
- Memory - 128. Gb
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