October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PCOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
Seoul desk4 min

How to Unlock a Samsung Galaxy Note20 Without Losing Your Data

Biometrics or a previously configured Smart Lock condition may preserve access to a locked Galaxy Note20. If neither works and the screen credential is forgotten, Samsung’s guidance is to reset—and local data is erased.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

You can unlock a Galaxy Note20 without erasing its data only if a method already configured on the phone still grants access—such as fingerprint or face recognition, or an active Smart Lock condition. If the screen lock is genuinely forgotten and none of those work, Samsung’s current guidance is to factory-reset the device, which erases local data. Samsung no longer supports remotely unlocking a forgotten screen lock through SmartThings Find.

First identify what is stopping you

A rejected PIN, pattern, or password is different from a keyboard that will not appear, a phone that has temporarily stopped responding, a biometric failure, or a request for a SIM or network unlock code. The remedies differ: a carrier or retailer generally handles a SIM/network lock, while a forgotten screen credential cannot be recovered by troubleshooting the network. Samsung’s screen-lock guidance and Galaxy troubleshooting steps cover these as distinct problems.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • If the phone is asking for a SIM/network code, contact the carrier or retailer that supplied it.
  • If the keyboard is missing or the phone is frozen, try the low-risk checks below.
  • If it specifically rejects a forgotten PIN, pattern, or password, use only an access method already set up on the device—or prepare for a reset.

Try access methods that preserve the phone’s data

Use biometrics if they still work

If fingerprint or face recognition still unlocks the Note20, get in and back up important data immediately. Then change the screen lock using the phone’s settings. Samsung’s supported procedure for resetting unlock methods removes saved unlock data, including the PIN, pattern, password, and biometrics; you can then configure new methods. Menu labels may vary by software version and region.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Check a previously configured Smart Lock condition

If Smart Lock was set up before the lockout, see whether its trusted location or nearby trusted device condition is currently active. Smart Lock is not a way to set up a new route into a locked phone: it can help only when previously configured and its trusted condition is met.

#1 Best Overall
OWKEY Magnetic Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Fit for MagSafe,Matte Black
  • ✅ Perfect Compatibility: Specifically designed for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 case, this ultra-slim cover delivers a snug fit that preserves the sleek profile of your device. Precise cutouts offer seamless access to all buttons, ports, speakers, and the camera—ensuring full functionality without compromise.
  • ✅ Enhanced Magnetic Power: This case for Galaxy Note 20 features a built-in N55-grade magnetic ring for stronger and more stable magnetic alignment. Perfectly compatible with MagSafe accessories—including chargers, car mounts, wallets, and battery packs—your phone stays securely attached even on rough roads or during daily movement.
  • ✅ Military-Grade Drop Protection: Built to protect, this shockproof case for Samsung Note 20 includes reinforced corners and advanced impact-absorbing tech. SGS-certified to withstand drops up to 3.3 metres, it shields your phone from life’s unexpected accidents.
  • ✅Camera and Screen Protection: This phone case for Note 20 features raised bezels around the screen and a 2mm elevated camera frame to protect against scratches, drops, and dust. Designed to shield the most vulnerable areas of your phone while preserving camera clarity and display integrity.
  • ✅ Anti-Fingerprint Matte Finish: Crafted from frosted semi-transparent material, this case for Samsung Note 20 features a silky matte texture that resists fingerprints, smudges, oil, and dust. The soft, hazy finish highlights your phone’s original design while keeping it clean and stylish.

Restart or address a missing keyboard

A restart can resolve a temporary input or software problem, but it will not reveal or bypass a forgotten credential. Samsung describes restarting by holding the Power/Side button and Volume Down until the phone restarts. If a third-party keyboard is unavailable on the lock screen, Samsung’s troubleshooting guidance describes using Safe Mode so the Samsung keyboard can be used. Neither step bypasses a correctly functioning screen lock.

Why Samsung Find cannot unlock a forgotten Note20 lock

Samsung’s current support article says, “Please note: It is no longer possible to remotely unlock your phone using SmartThings Find.” See Samsung’s current lockout guidance, updated April 24, 2026.

Rank #2
Dexnor for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G Case, [Built in Screen Protector and Kickstand] Heavy Duty Military Grade Protection Shockproof Protective Cover for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Black
  • 【Compatibility】 This light but tough rugged case ONLY fits your Galaxy Note 20【6.7 inches】 perfectly without any bulky feeling.Notes: Not fit Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 【6.9 inches】,Please check the phone model carefully before purchase)
  • 【360°Heavy Duty Protection】 Besides full-body coverage of front & back cases, the reinforced corners and raised edges around the camera and screen will offer your Galaxy Note 20【6.7 inches】further protection against drops, cracks and scratches.
  • 【Multifunctional Back Kickstand】The retractable kickstand is very stable to use, allowing you to enjoy hands-free viewing in portrait or landscape mode. You can also thread your finger through it to manipulate the phone with one hand.
  • 【Wireless Charging Compatible】Our bumper cover won't interfere with wireless charging. You can feel free to charge your cell phone wirelessly with this case on.
  • 【Touch-sensitive Screen Protector】The built-in screen protector of our protective phone case is not only resistant to scratch and smudge, it's also responsive to your touch, allowing smooth typing and gaming without any lag.

Older Galaxy Note20 and Note20 Ultra manuals describe a feature called “Remote unlock,” which could use a PIN, pattern, or password stored with Samsung. That documentation describes an older capability, not a currently supported way to remove a forgotten lock. Do not rely on old instructions or spend time looking for that option as a present-day solution.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Check what is backed up before choosing erase

A backup check cannot unlock the phone, but it tells you what might be restored after a reset. From another device, check Google Photos, Google Contacts, Google Drive or Android device backup, Samsung Cloud where available, Smart Switch or computer backups, and backups for individual apps. Only data that had already synced or been saved is available this way; local-only files are not guaranteed to return.

Rank #3
Dionsibei Military Grade Drop Impact Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G Phone, 360 Metal Rotating Ring Kickstand Holder, Armor Heavy Duty Shockproof, Black
  • [Compatible Model]:Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G Case for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G Phone [Note include Magnetic Car Mount ].
  • [Material]:High Qualit Full Body Cover for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Phone Case.Armor Heavy Duty Shockproof for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Case.redesigned TPU frame with Metal kickstand, and extra reinforcement from hard PC material provide aesthetic.with 340 Metal Rotating Built-in Magnetic Car Mount
  • [Product Disgin]: Luxury Style Full Body Protective Phone Cases Luxury Durable Shockproof 360 Back Cover Shell.Fashion and attractive design for your cell phone and provides.protection from scratches.with Metal Rotating Kickstand and Magnetic Car Mount
  • [Feature]:It's very convenient when you need.100% brand new and high quality.easy access to all buttons, controls and ports.Built-In Kickstand:Designed with a built-in kickstand for video calls, watching videos/movies.
  • [Function]: Drop-proof, shockproof and dust-proof, especially four reinforced corner provide extremely strong protection.Hard Cover with Special Protective Design Excellent for Outdoor Activities. Shockproof for Samsung Galaxy Note 20 5G Phone Case

Samsung recommends regular backups. Samsung SmartThings Find and Google Find Hub may provide location, security, or erase actions depending on prior setup and connectivity, but erasing is not a data-preserving unlock. Google’s Find Hub guidance explains its find, secure, and erase functions; after a device is reset, it is no longer available in Find Hub.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

When a factory reset is the remaining option

If the screen credential is truly forgotten and no configured access method works, Samsung’s current recovery guidance is to factory-reset the phone. A reset deletes local data. Samsung documents a Note20-compatible Recovery route in its factory-reset instructions; follow the current instructions for your model rather than assuming a button sequence that can vary with software state.

Rank #4
Crave Galaxy Note 20 Case, Shockproof Protection Dual Layer Case for Galaxy Note 20 (6.7 inch) - Forest Green
  • ADVANCED DUAL LAYER PROTECTION: The Crave Dual Guard Note 20 Case is designed with dual layer technology that protects your cellphone from drops and shocks with a layer of high-grade polycarbonate (PC) and one of thermo polyurethane (TPU).
  • SLIM, COMPACT FIT: Protecting your phone doesn't mean having to add unnecessary bulk to your pocket or purse. Our Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Case is slim and lightweight, while still providing superior phone protection and control.
  • ENHANCED RUBBER GRIP: We designed the Crave Dual Guard to not only be more durable than your average Note 20 case, but to also give your fingers and hands more tactile control while making calls, texting or reading the news.
  • IMPROVED PERIPHERAL ACCESS: With our Galaxy Note 20 case you'll still be able to easily access the power button, volume control and both front and rear-facing cameras.

Before resetting, make sure you know the Google account credentials previously used on the phone. Android may require that account after the reset as anti-theft verification. Google’s Android unlock guidance also directs users who cannot unlock a device toward erasure rather than a data-preserving bypass. Afterward, restore what is available from your backups; a reset cannot recover data that existed only on the phone.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How to assess third-party “unlock without data loss” claims

Samsung and Google’s cited guidance does not validate a third-party tool or service as a way to bypass a forgotten modern Note20 screen lock while retaining inaccessible local data. Treat such claims cautiously; the supported options are access through an already configured method or a destructive reset followed by restoration of backed-up data. If the real issue is a damaged display, seek repair advice for that hardware fault rather than treating it as a forgotten-credential solution.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.