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On most Samsung Galaxy phones, open Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset, review what will be erased, then tap Reset and Delete all. Back up anything you need first: a factory data reset erases personal information and downloaded content, and Samsung warns that personal information may not be recoverable. Menus and prompts can differ by model, software version, and carrier.
Before you reset: back up and prepare
A factory data reset returns the phone to its initial setup state by erasing personal information and downloaded content from the device. Samsung’s US support page, “Perform a factory reset on your Galaxy phone or tablet,” warns: “Please save any information you need prior to the factory reset because your personal information may not be recovered.” Save photos, videos, documents, and other information you want to keep before proceeding.
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- Check account access. The reset flow may ask for the phone’s screen-lock credentials and, if a Samsung account is signed in, that account’s password. Samsung’s US guidance says network access is needed to log out of a Samsung account before completing the reset.
- Handle an encrypted microSD card. Samsung’s US instructions say to decrypt an encrypted card before resetting; otherwise, the phone may not be able to read it afterward.
- If you are handing the phone to someone else, prepare the Google account. Samsung UK explains that Google Factory Reset Protection can require the previously used Google account after a reset. Remove your Google account before handoff so the next owner is not blocked by the prior owner’s account protection.
Factory reset a Galaxy from Settings
- Back up what you need. Confirm that important information has been saved somewhere you can access after the phone is erased.
- Open the reset menu. Go to Settings > General management > Reset.
- Choose the full reset. Tap Factory data reset and read the on-screen list of affected information and warnings.
- Confirm the erase. Tap Reset, then Delete all. Enter your screen-lock credentials or Samsung account password if prompted.
- Wait for the restart. When the reset finishes, the phone should return to its initial setup screen.
Samsung notes that menu names and screens vary by model, software version, and carrier. If a label differs or the flow does not match these steps, follow the prompts shown on your phone and consult the official instructions for your exact model rather than assuming every Galaxy uses identical screens.
Choose the right kind of reset
A factory data reset is for erasing the phone, not simply refreshing its settings. Samsung also offers narrower reset options; read the confirmation screen carefully and choose the one that matches the problem you are trying to solve.
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- 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
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| Reset option | What it is for | Effect on personal data and apps |
|---|---|---|
| Reset all settings | Restoring general settings without wiping the phone. | Samsung says personal data and downloaded apps are preserved. |
| Mobile network settings reset | Addressing a problem limited to mobile network settings. | Not stated in the cited Samsung support material; read the device’s confirmation screen. |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings reset | Addressing a problem limited to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings. | Not stated in the cited Samsung support material; read the device’s confirmation screen. |
| Accessibility settings reset | Restoring accessibility settings without choosing a full device wipe. | Not stated in the cited Samsung support material; read the device’s confirmation screen. |
| Factory data reset | Erasing the phone or making a last-resort troubleshooting attempt. | Erases personal information and downloaded content from the phone. |
If the phone is locked or inaccessible
If you cannot use Settings, Samsung UK lists device-button procedures and SmartThings Find as other reset routes. The exact button sequence is not established for every Galaxy model, and remote reset availability can depend on region and device setup. Use Samsung’s official instructions for your specific model and situation; do not rely on a universal button combination. A reset through another route still has destructive consequences, and account protection may apply afterward.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When a reset is a troubleshooting step
For a phone caught in a boot loop, Samsung US advises treating a factory reset as a last resort after trying earlier troubleshooting steps. Its India support page, updated February 2, 2026, likewise describes reset as “an effective, last resort method of troubleshooting for mobile phones.” Use a full reset only when less destructive troubleshooting has not resolved the issue and you are prepared for the data loss.
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
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- 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
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- 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
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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
- 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.
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