On a Pixel, open Settings > Security > Advanced security settings > Device admin apps. Review the apps shown there to see which can administer your phone. Menu names and steps vary by Android device, so on other phones search Settings for “device admin apps” or “device administrator.”
Find device admin apps in Settings
- Open Settings.
- On a Pixel, go to Security > Advanced security settings > Device admin apps. Google identifies this screen as the place to “Find or remove apps that can administer your phone.” Google Pixel Help notes that some steps vary by device.
- Review the list and each app’s status. The screen shows apps with device administrator access and provides a way to remove that access.
If you do not see the same path, use Settings search for “device admin apps” or “device administrator.” Android manufacturers and software versions can use different menu labels or layouts.
What device admin access means
Device administrator access is a special capability used by apps that apply device policies. Android lists email clients, security apps with remote-wipe functions, and device-management services as examples. An unfamiliar entry is not automatically malware; identify the app and why it was enabled before changing its access. Android’s Device Administration overview also notes that some Device Administration API policies have been deprecated beginning with Android 9 (API level 28), so capabilities are not identical across Android versions.
Turn off access before uninstalling an app
If you decide to remove an app, first unregister it as a device administrator in the Device admin apps screen, then uninstall it. Android’s developer guidance says an existing device-admin app must be unregistered before it can be uninstalled. The exact control label and route can vary by phone maker and version.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- 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 the phone is managed by work or school
A company or school may manage the phone or require management for access to organizational resources. Android Enterprise documentation says fully managed company-owned devices can enforce policies, manage apps, and be remotely locked or wiped. If an entry is unexpected or the setting is blocked, contact your organization’s administrator before attempting to change it; disabling management may interrupt work email or other organization access. Android Enterprise Help: Full device management.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Device admin is not the same as other special access
The Device admin apps screen does not list every app with elevated or sensitive access. Accessibility access, notification access, and usage access are separate settings, so check those independently if you are investigating a different kind of permission.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network. Activating is easy, just 3 steps.
- ACTIVATION Promotion: Includes 1500 min, 1500 texts & 1500 MB Data + add more as you need it
- CAMERA SYSTEM: 50MP Quad Pixel camera. Capture sharper, more vibrant photos day or night with 4x the light sensitivity.
- PERFORMANCE: Blazing-fast Qualcomm performance. Get the speed you need for great entertainment with a Snapdragon 680 processor and 4GB of RAM.
- 64GB built-in storage. Get plenty of room for photos, movies, songs, and apps. Made for US
Rank #4
- 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
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.
Rank #2
- Carrier: This phone is locked to Tracfone, which means this device can only be used on the Tracfone wireless network. Tracfone plan required, activating is easy, just 3 steps.
- DISPLAY: Immersive viewing on a 6.7-inch super-bright 120Hz display with powerful stereo speakers and Bass Boost for cinematic entertainment.
- CAMERA SYSTEM: Advanced 50MP Quad Pixel camera captures sharp, detailed photos and videos in any lighting condition
- PERFORMANCE: Lightning-fast 5G connectivity paired with a powerful processor and RAM Boost for smooth multitasking.
- BATTERY LIFE: Long-lasting 5000mAh battery with TurboPower charging technology delivers hours of power in minutes.
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.
