How to reset your smartphone if you have forgotten your new screen lock, pin or password

Using the previous lock screen feature on a smartphone

If you have forgotten your new screen lock PIN, password or pattern within 72 hours of setting it, you can use the previous one to unlock your smartphone. 

Please note: This feature is only available on smartphones running One UI 6.1 (or newer) software.

Requirements to reset with previous lock screen

  • Only available within 72 hours of new PIN, password or pattern being set.
  • Screen lock method is set to PIN, password or pattern, with or without Biometrics.
  • The Delete previous PIN now box is not selected.
New password set. Delete previous PIN now option

How to use the Reset with previous screen lock feature?

After five unsuccessful attempts at entering your PIN, password, or pattern, there'll be a Forgot PIN/password/pattern? prompt.

1 Tap Forgot PIN/password/pattern?
New password set. Delete previous PIN now option
2 You will then be taken to the Reset with previous screen lock screen. Enter your previous PIN, password or pattern.
New password set. Delete previous PIN now option
3 You can now set a new PIN, password or pattern.
Set your new PIN screen

How do I delete the previous PIN, password or pattern?

When setting a new PIN, password, or pattern, a screen appears with an option to Delete previous PIN/password/pattern now. Select the option, and tap OK if you’d like to delete the previous screen lock.

New password set. Delete previous PIN now option

Please note: The Delete previous PIN now box shouldn’t be selected for the “reset with previous screen lock feature” to work.

What should I do if I have also forgotten my previous PIN, password or pattern?

You may have to book a repair and get a factory reset at a service centre. This will delete all data, so it is advised to always keep your data backed up.

Thank you for your feedback!