Unlock Your Samsung Galaxy with a previous screen lock method
Galaxy devices have a feature that allows you to unlock the screen by using a past screen lock method when you have forgotten or lost your current means (PIN, password, or pattern) for unlocking your device.
Notes:
- The unlocking function using the previous screen lock method (PIN, password, or pattern) is supported on Galaxy models equipped with One UI 6.1 or later.
- This function can be used once per screen lock type after changing your PIN, password, or pattern.
- After changing your screen lock PIN, password, or pattern, the previous screen lock data is stored for 72 hours and then deleted.
The “Forgot PIN/Password/Pattern” option on the lock screen is activated after 5 or more failed attempts to unlock the device. After using the "Forgot PIN/Password/Pattern" feature, if the previous lock method is entered incorrectly 3 times, no further attempts will be allowed.
Step 1. Tap Forgot PIN? when the link appears.
* The link will refer to your screen lock type.
Step 2. Enter a previous PIN > Tap OK.
Step 3. To change your current screen lock, select a screen lock type.
Step 4. Enter your new PIN, password, or pattern > Tap Continue.
Step 5. Re-enter your new PIN, password, or pattern > Tap OK.
If you do not wish to save the previous lock method (PIN/password/pattern), please refer to the instructions to delete it.
Step 1. Open Settings > Tap Lock screen and AOD.
Step 2. Tap Secure lock settings > Enter your PIN, password, or pattern.
* The Secure lock settings button appears only if you have set a pattern, password, or PIN for the lock screen.
Step 3. Tap Delete previous pattern.
* The Delete option for the old pattern, password, or PIN appears differently depending on the screen lock method currently set up.
Step 4. Tap Delete.
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