How to unlock Samsung phone
Learn how to unlock your Samsung phone including tips for pattern recovery and using Find My Mobile. Simple steps to regain access.
Make sure your Samsung phone is unlocked if you want to use different carrier than one you purchased it from initially. You can use SIM cards from different carriers only after unlocking your phone, if it isn’t already unlocked.
Below, we’ll explain exactly how to check if your phone is unlocked and how to unlock it if needed. Process for unlocking a phone is generally the same for any phone, not just Samsung, so this guide can help you with other brands too.
If you were looking for advice on how to unlock Samsung phone with pattern or what to do if you forget your pattern, skip to end of article. We’ve covered that information there as well.
Table of Contents
How to Check if Your Samsung Phone is Locked
Before you unlock your phone, it’s good idea to check if you really need to. Many phones are sold unlocked or become unlocked automatically after certain period.
To check if your phone is locked- try inserting SIM card from different network. If your phone connects and you get signal, it’s likely unlocked. To be sure- try sending or receiving text or making and receiving call.
You can often get SIM cards from different carriers for free or at very low cost, either online or in stores. Alternatively, you could borrow a SIM card from a friend or family member. Just make sure SIM card is from a different network, as some carriers in certain countries use same underlying network.
For example: in UK Giffgaff uses O2’s network. So if you want to check if your phone is locked to O2, using Giffgaff SIM won’t be helpful, as it will work either way.
Another way to check if your phone is locked is to call your carrier and ask them directly. You can also visit store of your carrier or another network and ask if they can check for you. They should be able to help.
How to Unlock Your Samsung Phone
If you find out your Samsung phone is locked, don’t worry—unlocking it is usually straightforward.
Before you start unlocking process, make sure you have your phone’s IMEI number. Most carriers will need this number to unlock your phone. To find it- open phone app and dial *#06# on your phone. IMEI number will appear on your screen.
You can also find IMEI number by going to Settings > About phone.
In addition to IMEI number, you’ll likely need your account details including your name, phone number, account number and password.
How to Unlock Samsung Phone Through Your Carrier
Process for unlocking your Samsung phone can vary depending on your carrier, so if you’re unsure, it’s good idea to call them. Generally, you’ll need to make sure your contract is fully paid off and that your account is in good standing.
To unlock your phone: you usually need to contact your current carrier (not one you want to switch to). During call, you can check if your phone is locked and request unlock. Often, you can sort everything out in that one phone call.
Some carriers offer different ways to unlock your phone. For example: T-Mobile provides a Device Unlock app that you can use with some phones.
Keep in mind that some carriers might charge small fee to unlock your phone. Also, time it takes to unlock your phone can vary between carriers and may take several weeks.
How to Set Up and Unlock Samsung Phone with Pattern
Now that we’ve discussed unlocking Samsung phones for use with different networks, let’s talk about setting up pattern lock to secure your phone and what to do if you forget your pattern.
To set up pattern lock follow these steps:
- Go to Settings on your phone.
- Tap Lock screen.
- Select Screen lock type.
If you already have security method set up like PIN, you’ll need to enter it to access these settings.
- Choose Pattern as your screen lock type.
- You’ll be asked to draw pattern. This pattern will be what you use to unlock your phone in future. Make sure it’s something secure but also something you can remember easily.
Keep in mind that pattern locks are generally less secure than PINs or passwords. Consider this before choosing pattern lock.
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What to Do If You Forget Your Samsung Phone Pattern
If you forget pattern you use to lock your Samsung phone. There are ways to regain access to your device.
- Use Fingerprint or Face Unlock: If you have set up fingerprint or face recognition, you can use these methods to unlock your phone. However, you cannot use them to change pattern or remove it. Also, keep in mind that you cannot use these features immediately after restarting your phone, so you might still face lockout issue.
- Use Find My Mobile: If you don’t have fingerprint or face recognition set up or you want to reset your security settings after restart, you can use Samsung’s Find My Mobile service. First, make sure it’s set up by going to Settings > Biometrics and security > Find My Mobile and ensure both Find My Mobile and Remote unlock are turned on.
- If you’re locked out- go to Find My Mobile website from another device.
- Sign in to your Samsung account.
- You should see location of your phone on map. If you have multiple devices registered, select one you want to unlock.
- Click Unlock option. You’ll need to enter your Samsung account password to unlock phone. Using Find My Mobile will remove all current security settings, so you’ll need to set up new pattern, PIN or password to secure your phone again. This process will give you full access to your device, allowing you to reset your security settings.
After unlocking, you can set up new pattern or other security measures to protect your phone. Just remember to keep your new pattern safe!
FAQ
1. What if I forgot my Samsung phone pattern but have fingerprint or face unlock?
If you have fingerprint or face unlock set up- you can use these methods to unlock your phone. However, they cannot be used to change or remove pattern.
2. Can I use fingerprint or face unlock immediately after restarting my phone?
No, you cannot use fingerprint or face unlock right after restarting your phone. You will need to enter pattern or PIN first.
3. How do I set up Find My Mobile on my Samsung phone?
Go to Settings > Biometrics and security > Find My Mobile. Turn on Find My Mobile and Remote unlock.
4. What should I do if I’m locked out & can’t use Find My Mobile?
If you cannot use Find My Mobile- you may need to contact Samsung support or visit service center for further assistance.
5. Can I use third-party unlocking service if I forget my pattern?
Yes, but use third-party services as last resort. Ensure they are reputable and read reviews before proceeding.
6. Will using Find My Mobile delete my data?
No, using Find My Mobile to unlock your phone will not delete your data. However, it will remove current security settings and you’ll need to set up new ones.