You can unlock your Google Pixel device without a passcode while ensuring your device stays secure. There are multiple ways to unlock your Pixel phone or tablet, which include passwords and patterns. Thebest Pixel phonesoffer these features, but older models may not include all of them. Our guide shows all the alternative ways to unlock your Google Pixel phone and what to do if you forget your password.
Stay up to date on thequarterly Pixel Feature Drop, which occasionally includes new security features for your Pixel phone, tablet, or smartwatch.
Can you unlock your Google Pixel if you forget your passcode?
Yes, you can, but you mustfactory resetyour Google Pixel first. It’s important to back up your smartphone because it can restore your files after completing the factory reset. There are multiple ways to securely access your Google Pixel phone, even if you don’t remember the passcode.
How many years will my Google Pixel get Android updates?
Google’s Pixel phones are some of the longest-supported Android phones
Alternative unlocking methods you can try
If you set up fingerprint, pattern, or face unlock on your Google Pixel phone, you can unlock it without your passcode. These methods let you access your phone without factory resetting your Google Pixel. However, these options are only available if you set them up before forgetting your passcode. If you haven’t set up an alternative unlocking method, follow the advanced methods to unlock your Google Pixel.
Change your Google Pixel’s device lock
TheSwipeandNoneoptions do not protect your Google Pixel phone with a device lock. Do not select these options if you keep sensitive data on your Pixel phone.
Unlock your Pixel with your fingerprint
Every Google Pixel phone, apart from the Google Pixel 4, has a dedicated fingerprint scanner. On modern Google Pixel phones, you get an in-display fingerprint scanner, whereas older versions have it on the back of the device. If you set up your fingerprint along with a passcode, scan your fingertip on the sensor to unlock the phone.
Use face recognition to unlock your Pixel
If you set up face recognition before forgetting your password, you can easily unlock it. Wake up your phone and hold it in front of your face so that the selfie camera can scan your face and unlock your phone.
Unlock your Pixel with a pattern
Pattern unlock is another way to unlock a Google Pixel if you forget the passcode. Trace the pattern on the lock screen and unlock your phone.
How can I unlock a Google Pixel without a passcode?
There are three ways to unlock a Google Pixel without a passcode. Some of it requires external software (via PC connection) and Android recovery tools. We break down each method one by one.
Whichever method you go for, you’ll perform a factory reset of your phone. If you never backed up your Pixel, all your data is lost when you reset it.
Use the Pixel Repair tool
The Pixel Repair tool is an official tool that doesn’t unlock Google Pixel phones. Instead, it updates them. But you can factory reset your phone, which lets you unlock your device without a passcode. The best part about using the Pixel Repair tool is that it installs the latest Android version after resetting your phone, which isn’t possible with other methods discussed in this guide.
Here’s how to use the Pixel Repair tool to unlock a Google Pixel phone:
The factory reset process begins. Leave your Pixel phone connected to your PC until the process is completed. When the process finishes, restore your data using the backup if you have one.
Use Google Find My Device
You can also use theGoogle Find My Devicewebsite, which is usually used tolocate a lost phone, reset a Google Pixel phone, and unlock it without a passcode.
If you reset your Pixel phone using Google Find My Device, your device is restored to the Android version that was pre-installed on your phone. You must perform a system update to get the latest Android version.
Here are the steps to reset a Google Pixel using Find My Device:
After the process is complete, you must set up your Google Pixel again and restore the files using the backup you have.
Use Android Recovery Mode
You can use Recovery Mode on your Google Pixel to reset the phone to factory settings. This mode is built into the phone. You don’t need a computer or laptop to carry out this process. Here’s how to unlock a Google Pixel without a passcode using the Recover Mode method:
When your phone boots up, set it up and restore your data using a previously created backup.
How to use Android’s recovery mode
You might actually need to use it on your device one day
Use ADB and Fastboot (for rooted phones)
If you have a rooted Google Pixel, use ADB commands and Fastboot to reset your lock screen and unlock your Google Pixel without a passcode.
Rooting your phone is a technical process that smartphone manufacturers might consider warranty-voiding. If things go wrong, it could cause issues ranging from data loss to a bricked device. Being rooted can remove some security protection features and leave you vulnerable to outside threats. Ensure you understand the risks involved when rooting an Android device before proceeding.
This process only works if you have a rooted phone and the USB Debugging option is activated on your phone. For the steps to activate USB debugging, refer to our guide on installing ADB or issuingADB commands wirelessly. Here are the steps you’ll follow to unlock your Google Pixel without a passcode using ADB and Fastboot:
Your phone restarts again, and you can enter any random pattern to unlock your phone.
How to install and use ADB on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, Chromebooks, or even in a browser
Want to set up and use ADB? Read this
Always set an alternative device lock
Setting multiple lock methods is the best way to avoid getting locked out. Adding fingerprint recognition and a passcode means you can sign in to your device even if you forget your passcode. However, even if you lock your device to keep it secure to prevent public access, you should still be careful with your data. If you’re worried about prying eyes, check outPrivate Spaceon Android 15. This added feature hides your apps, files, documents, and photos in a password-protected space.
