Recommended Free Tools
After a factory reset, a Samsung phone returns to its initial setup screens. Complete that setup over Wi-Fi, verify the Google account previously used on the phone if prompted, then set up or confirm Metro by T-Mobile service separately. A reset does not activate a line or guarantee that a SIM or eSIM will work.
Before you start
- Charge the phone and connect it to reliable Wi-Fi when setup asks.
- Have the Google account previously used on the phone available. Keep your Samsung account details handy too, if you use one.
- If you plan to restore a backup, make sure it is the one you want to use. You can skip restore if you prefer to set up the phone as new.
Samsung says account verification may be required after a reset, particularly when the reset was started from the Recovery menu. See Samsung’s reset guidance and its Google Device Protection information. Setup screens and menu names vary by Galaxy model and software version.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Complete the Samsung setup wizard
- Choose the language and accessibility options. Follow the first-screen prompts; available choices depend on the phone.
- Connect to Wi-Fi. Use a reliable network so the phone can continue setup and, where applicable, download an eSIM profile.
- Sign in to Google. Follow the prompts to use the account associated with the phone. If asked to verify ownership after a recovery reset, see the next section.
- Sign in to your Samsung account, if applicable. You can use the account you previously had on the device when prompted.
- Review terms and choose whether to restore data. Accept the terms shown on the phone. Restore only if you want to bring back data from an available backup.
Samsung’s Galaxy setup guidance describes language selection, Wi-Fi, account sign-in and terms as part of setup; the exact sequence and options differ across devices.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Google account verification after a factory reset
If the phone displays Google Device Protection, enter the Google account that was used on this handset before it was reset. Samsung explains: “When an unauthorized reset is attempted on your device, it will require the username and password of the last Google account that was used before the reset.” Some Android versions may also request or accept the previous screen-lock PIN or password.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
If you recently changed the Google password, Samsung says a 24-hour cooldown may apply before the new password can unlock the reset device. If you cannot identify the account or complete verification, contact Samsung support or an authorized service provider and be prepared to provide proof of purchase. Do not use bypass instructions.
See Samsung’s Google Device Protection support page for its explanation of verification after a reset.
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.
Set up Metro service: choose the eSIM or physical SIM path
Finishing Android setup and activating Metro service are separate tasks. Metro activation requires a compatible, network-unlocked phone and a Metro SIM or eSIM, plus the appropriate line or plan setup. Use Metro’s activation process if you are starting or changing a line; do not assume the factory reset activated service.
| Service option | What to do after reset | Key distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Physical SIM | Check that the card is seated in the tray, then inspect SIM status in Settings. | A removable card must be recognized by the phone; line activation is handled separately. |
| eSIM on a Metro-provisioned device | Connect to Wi-Fi and watch for “Preparing for mobile connection” during initial setup. | Metro says the profile downloads automatically for a device provisioned with its eSIM. |
| eSIM on a bring-your-own device | Complete Metro’s activation steps, then accept the eSIM notification or add it through Settings if prompted. | Activation or manual setup may be needed; it is not necessarily part of the initial Samsung wizard. |
If your Samsung uses a Metro eSIM
Metro describes an eSIM as “a digital version of a physical SIM (pSIM) card that is embedded in your device.” On a Metro device already provisioned with eSIM, connect to Wi-Fi during initial setup and look for “Preparing for mobile connection”; Metro says the profile downloads automatically and connects to the T-Mobile network.
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.
For a bring-your-own Samsung, Metro says an activation notification may appear so you can add the eSIM. If it does not, its published Samsung path is Settings > Network & Internet > Add SIM > Set up an eSIM; select Metro by T-Mobile and follow the prompts. The labels can differ with Android and One UI versions. Check with Metro that the eSIM is activated if the profile was erased or the setup option does not appear. See Metro’s eSIM support page.
If your Samsung uses a physical Metro SIM
With the phone powered off, make sure the SIM is correctly seated in its tray, then start the phone. A SIM ejector tool can help open the tray if needed, though many phones include one. To check whether the phone recognizes the card, open Settings > About phone > Status information > SIM card status. Samsung says the Network field should show the carrier when the SIM is recognized. If you have a new line or changed phones, complete Metro’s activation steps for the compatible, unlocked device and SIM.
Rank #4
- 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.
Samsung’s SIM support guidance covers checking SIM status; Metro’s activation page explains the carrier-side process.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Check calls, texts and mobile data
- Turn Wi-Fi off temporarily so you are testing the cellular connection.
- Place a test call and send a text message.
- Open a web page or another app that uses mobile data.
If all three work, the phone is set up and the basic Metro connection is functioning. If one fails, use the checks below to narrow down whether the issue is SIM recognition, phone configuration or carrier service.
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
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- 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
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Troubleshoot a MetroPCS SIM not working after reset
The phone says there is no SIM or does not show the carrier
- Restart the phone.
- If it uses a removable SIM, power the phone off, reseat the card and turn the phone back on.
- Check Settings > About phone > Status information > SIM card status. If the Network field does not show a carrier, the phone may not be recognizing the SIM.
The SIM is recognized, but calls, texts or data still fail
Confirm that the Metro line is active and that the phone and SIM or eSIM have been set up for that line. Resetting the phone does not perform carrier activation. For a persistent cellular problem, contact Metro; Samsung recommends contacting the carrier when calling, SMS/MMS, signal, mobile data or hotspot issues remain.
Reset mobile network settings
If the phone recognizes the SIM but its mobile configuration appears to be the problem, Samsung documents a mobile network settings reset on supported software:
- Open Settings > General management > Reset.
- Select the mobile network settings reset option shown on your phone and confirm.
- Allow the phone to reconnect using the default mobile settings, then repeat the call, text and data checks.
This removes saved mobile configuration and restores defaults. It cannot activate an inactive Metro line or replace an eSIM profile that was erased. The menu label may vary; see Samsung’s troubleshooting guidance.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchQuick Recap
When to contact Metro or Samsung
- Contact Metro by T-Mobile for line activation, eSIM provisioning, a SIM that is active but cannot access service, or persistent calling, messaging and mobile-data problems. Use Metro’s activation page for a new or changed device or line.
- Contact Samsung support or service if Google verification prevents setup and you cannot recover the account, or if the phone still fails to recognize a SIM after reseating it and restarting.
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.
