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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →If you recently changed your Galaxy’s PIN, password, or pattern, you may be able to unlock it with the previous one without erasing data. Samsung’s documented recovery option is limited to eligible devices running One UI 6.1 or later, within 72 hours of the lock change, and only if you remember the previous credential. If those conditions do not apply, Samsung’s documented reset routes erase local data; there is no supported data-preserving bypass established by Samsung’s guidance.
First check whether you can use your previous screen lock
Samsung’s “Forgot PIN/Password/Pattern” recovery option is for a recently changed screen lock—not a forgotten lock that has never been changed. Samsung’s India and UK support guidance says the device must run One UI 6.1 or later and retain the previous lock for 72 hours after a change. The option appears after at least five unsuccessful attempts. Exact availability and wording can vary by model, software version, and region; follow the prompt on your device and check Samsung India’s instructions or Samsung UK’s previous-lock guide.
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- Confirm that the screen lock was changed within the last 72 hours and that you know the immediately previous PIN, password, or pattern.
- After five or more unsuccessful attempts, look for the “Forgot PIN/Password/Pattern” prompt on the lock screen.
- Select the prompt, enter the previous lock method, and follow the device instructions to set a new screen lock.
Samsung says this recovery can be used once per lock type. Its regional guidance warns that entering the previous method incorrectly can block further attempts after three wrong entries. Do not keep guessing. Samsung UK also notes that the previous lock must not have been deleted immediately after the change.
When the previous-lock option is unavailable
If more than 72 hours have passed, the previous lock was deleted, you do not remember it, or the device is not eligible, Samsung’s documented recovery instructions do not offer another way to get into the locked phone while preserving its protected local data. Smart Lock or Extend Unlock is not a substitute for the primary PIN, password, or pattern: Samsung describes those features as conveniences for a device that has already been set up with a lock, and the primary credential is still required after a restart or certain timeout conditions.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Before choosing a reset, check whether a backup is available and confirm that you can sign in to the Google account already associated with the phone. A factory reset removes data stored locally that has not been backed up. Samsung’s factory-reset guidance recommends backing up first, and its device-protection guidance explains that setup may require the previously associated Google account after a reset.
What the reset options do—and what they do not do
A remote erase or a button-based factory reset can return a phone to setup, but neither is a data-preserving unlock. Samsung’s U.S. lost-device guidance explains remote management through SmartThings Find; remote erase permanently deletes device data. If the phone is offline, an erase request takes effect when it next connects. Remote management depends on supported device conditions and settings being in place before the lockout, as well as access to the relevant account. A cable used as part of a reset procedure does not bypass the screen lock or save local data.
Rank #2
- 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.
| Path | Local data | What you need | Connectivity and account implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Previous-lock recovery | Designed to preserve data | Eligible Galaxy device on One UI 6.1 or later; lock changed within 72 hours; previous lock remembered; prompt available | Use the device’s lock-screen prompt; Samsung’s regional instructions determine exact availability |
| Remote erase through SmartThings Find | Deletes local device data | Supported device and remote-management conditions; access to the Samsung account used for the service | If offline, the erase runs when the device reconnects; Google account protection may apply during setup |
| Button-based factory reset | Deletes local device data | Follow the reset instructions for the specific model | After reset, Google device protection may require the Google account previously associated with the phone |
Samsung states of its SmartThings Find erase route: “However, please note that this process will permanently delete all your data, which cannot be recovered.” This warning applies to erasing the device, not the previous-lock recovery option.
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Factory Reset Protection, also called Google device protection, is intended to prevent unauthorized use after a reset. Samsung says the device may ask for the Google credentials previously associated with it before setup can continue. A reset does not recover a forgotten Google account or remove that account requirement. Confirm that you know the account and can sign in before proceeding; see Samsung’s Google device protection guidance.
Rank #3
- 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
When to contact Samsung support
If you need help carrying out a reset, or suspect a separate device fault, contact Samsung-authorized service support for your region. Samsung’s support instructions direct users to service for reset assistance, but they do not promise that a service center can bypass the screen lock or decrypt and recover data that was not backed up. Ask what a proposed service will do to the device before authorizing it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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 #4
- AWESOME SCREEN. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES: Elevate your content no matter where you are with the 6.7" Super AMOLED display¹ of the Galaxy A37 5G. Enjoy massive detail and stunning clarity on the go
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY: Whether it’s family moments or important calls, stay powered without the wait with Galaxy A37 5G. Super Fast Charging 2.0² ensures you’re back up and running quickly
- NEVER MISS THE SHOT, EVEN IN LOW LIGHT: With effortless Nightography, you can capture clear high-quality photos and videos on your phone automatically without adjusting manual settings
- PRO SHOTS, NO PROBLEM: Capture every moment effortlessly on Galaxy A37 5G with the advanced triple-lens camera system featuring a 50MP HDR main camera and a studio-grade front camera
- MORE POWER. MORE AWESOME: Enjoy smooth performance on Galaxy A37 5G. From detailed graphics while gaming to quick app launches and effortless multitasking, the Exynos 1480 keeps everything running
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