Table of Contents

Unlocking Your Samsung Galaxy S21: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to unlock your Samsung Galaxy S21? The good news is there are several avenues you can explore. The primary method depends on whether you’re referring to unlocking the screen lock (bypassing your PIN, password, or biometric security) or unlocking the phone from a specific carrier.

Screen Lock Unlock: If you’ve forgotten your screen lock, you’ll need to use the Find My Mobile service (if enabled on your device beforehand) or perform a factory reset. A factory reset will erase all data on your phone, so this should be considered a last resort.
Carrier Unlock: To unlock your S21 from a specific carrier (like AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile), you’ll typically need to meet their specific eligibility requirements, such as having fulfilled your contract, paid off the device, and having an account in good standing. Once eligible, you can request the unlock code from your carrier.

Let’s delve deeper into each method and explore some crucial considerations.

Understanding the Two Types of Unlocking

Before we dive into the “how-to,” it’s essential to differentiate between two distinct types of unlocking:

Screen Lock Unlocking (Bypassing Security): This refers to gaining access to your phone if you’ve forgotten your PIN, password, pattern, or if your biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) is failing. This is a security feature designed to protect your data, so bypassing it often requires drastic measures.
Carrier Unlocking (Network Unlock): This involves removing the restriction that ties your phone to a specific carrier’s network. A carrier-locked phone can only be used with that specific carrier’s SIM card. Unlocking allows you to use your phone with any compatible carrier, regardless of network.

Unlocking Your Samsung S21 Screen Lock

This is arguably the trickier situation, as security protocols are designed to prevent unauthorized access. However, here are your options:

Using Find My Mobile (Samsung Account Required)

If you previously set up your Samsung account on your S21 and enabled the “Remote unlock” feature, you’re in luck! This is the easiest and safest method.

Go to the Find My Mobile website on a computer or another device (https://findmymobile.samsung.com/).
Log in with your Samsung account credentials.
Locate your S21 on the device list.
Click on the “Unlock” option.
Follow the on-screen instructions to unlock your phone remotely.

Important Note: This feature needs to be enabled before you get locked out.

Performing a Factory Reset

If Find My Mobile isn’t an option (either because you didn’t set it up or can’t access your Samsung account), a factory reset is often the only solution. Be warned: this will erase all data on your phone, including photos, videos, apps, and contacts.

Power off your Samsung Galaxy S21.
Press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously.
When the Samsung logo appears, release the Power button but continue holding the Volume Up button.
You’ll enter Recovery Mode. Use the Volume Up/Down buttons to navigate and the Power button to select.
Navigate to “Wipe data/factory reset” and select it.
Confirm your choice by selecting “Yes – delete all user data.”
Wait for the process to complete.
Select “Reboot system now.”

Your S21 will restart and return to its factory settings, allowing you to set up a new screen lock.

Remember: Back up your data regularly to avoid significant data loss if you ever need to perform a factory reset.

Unlocking Your Samsung S21 From a Carrier

Unlocking your phone from a carrier opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to switch carriers freely or use local SIM cards when traveling internationally.

Eligibility Requirements

Before requesting an unlock code, ensure you meet your carrier’s eligibility criteria. These usually include:

Device Paid Off: The S21 must be fully paid for, with no outstanding balance on your account.
Active Account: Your account must be in good standing.
Contract Fulfillment: If you have a contract with the carrier, it must be fulfilled.
Activation Period: The device may need to be active on the carrier’s network for a specific period (e.g., 60 days) before it’s eligible for unlocking.
Not Reported Lost or Stolen: The S21 cannot be reported as lost or stolen.

Requesting the Unlock Code

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, contact your carrier’s customer support. You can usually do this via phone, online chat, or their website.

Contact your carrier. Be prepared to provide your account information, IMEI number of your phone (dial *#06# to find it), and any other information they require.
Request the unlock code. Explain that you want to unlock your Samsung Galaxy S21.
Receive the unlock code and instructions. The carrier will provide you with an unlock code and instructions on how to enter it.

Entering the Unlock Code

The process for entering the unlock code usually involves inserting a SIM card from a different carrier.

Power off your S21.
Insert a SIM card from a carrier different from the one your phone is locked to.
Power on your S21.
You should be prompted to enter the unlock code. Enter the code provided by your carrier.
Your phone should now be unlocked and ready to use with the new SIM card.

FAQs About Unlocking Your Samsung Galaxy S21

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process:

1. What is the IMEI number and where can I find it?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique identifier for your phone. You can find it by dialing *#06# on your S21. It will appear on the screen.

2. Is it legal to unlock my Samsung Galaxy S21?

Yes, unlocking your phone is legal, provided you meet the eligibility requirements set by your carrier.

3. Can I unlock my S21 if it’s still under contract?

It depends on your carrier’s policy. Some carriers will allow you to unlock the phone even under contract, as long as it’s fully paid off. Contact your carrier to confirm.

4. What happens if I enter the unlock code incorrectly too many times?

Entering the unlock code incorrectly multiple times can permanently lock your phone. Be very careful when entering the code. Contact your carrier if you’re unsure of the correct code.

5. Are there third-party unlocking services I can use?

Yes, there are third-party unlocking services available, but use them with caution. Some services may be unreliable or even scams. Always research and read reviews before using a third-party service. Using unauthorized methods may also void your warranty.

6. Will unlocking my phone void the warranty?

Unlocking your phone through legitimate means (i.e., through your carrier) should not void the warranty. However, using unauthorized methods from third parties might affect your warranty.

7. How long does it take to get an unlock code from my carrier?

The time it takes to get an unlock code varies by carrier. Some carriers provide the code immediately, while others may take a few business days.

8. What if my carrier refuses to unlock my phone?

If you meet all the eligibility requirements and your carrier refuses to unlock your phone, you can file a complaint with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).

9. Can I unlock a phone that’s been reported lost or stolen?

No, you cannot unlock a phone that’s been reported lost or stolen. Carriers will not provide unlock codes for such devices.

10. Does unlocking my phone automatically make it compatible with all carriers?

No. While unlocking removes the carrier lock, your phone still needs to be compatible with the network technology and frequencies used by the new carrier. Check compatibility before switching carriers.

11. I forgot my Google account associated with my phone after a factory reset, what can I do?

This is called Factory Reset Protection (FRP). You’ll need to enter the Google account credentials that were previously used on the phone. If you cannot remember them, you’ll need to attempt account recovery through Google. Contact Samsung support if you’re still unable to access your phone.

12. Is unlocking the same as rooting?

No. Unlocking refers to removing the carrier lock, allowing you to use the phone with different networks. Rooting is a process that gives you administrative access to the Android operating system, allowing you to customize it further. They are entirely different processes.

Unlocking your Samsung Galaxy S21, whether it’s bypassing the screen lock or freeing it from carrier restrictions, offers greater flexibility and control over your device. By understanding the methods, requirements, and potential risks, you can navigate the unlocking process with confidence. Remember to always back up your data and prioritize secure and legitimate methods.