Detailed description of methods to restore access by resetting the pattern lock

Despite the convenience and simplicity of the pattern lock feature, many users often forget their pattern and cannot unlock their phone. For such cases, the operating system provides multiple data reset methods to restore access to the device.

Pattern lock function. Essence and use

Today, users of smartphones and other mobile devices try to protect the data stored on their phones as much as possible.

To prevent unauthorized access to the contents of the device, developers created access control systems with lock screens. To use a mobile device and access the data, the user must enter a password.

Each type of screen lock involves the use of an access key (short code, password, or gesture). A pattern lock is an innovation that eliminates the need to memorize complex passwords or passphrases. To reach the home screen, the user simply needs to connect dots on a grid in the sequence chosen during setup.

Setting up a pattern lock

You can create this type of screen unlock on any version of the Android operating system.
Follow these steps:

• Open the gadget settings and, under personal data, select the security options tab;
• Choose “Screen lock”;
• Select “Pattern.” Draw the desired sequence of dots and remember it. Save the action. Now, to unlock the display, you will need to reproduce the chosen pattern.

A detailed scheme for enabling a pattern lock is shown in the illustration below:

Advantages of the “Pattern Lock” function:

• Quick unlocking;
• No need to memorize codes;
• Possibility to reset the pattern if the user forgets it.

There are more than ten ways to reset the lock screen. Below we will examine each method in detail. Choose the option depending on your device’s capabilities and your level of technical skills with the gadget.

Method 1 – Simple password reset

If a numeric code was set in addition to the pattern lock, you can easily regain access.

After several failed attempts to enter the pattern, a system message will appear stating that input is suspended. Tap “Unlock using another method.”

A screen will appear for entering a short numeric password (PIN code). Enter it on the keypad and the phone will automatically unlock.

This method works only if multiple unlocking methods were configured in advance. Otherwise, the “unlock another way” option will not appear.

Method 2 – Calling the phone

This method works on older Android versions. Try calling the locked phone from another device. After answering the call, the smartphone activates without requiring a key. The same applies to other types of lock screens.

On newer Android versions (5.0 and above), this trick does not work. However, you can use PC utilities that automatically remove the saved key script. Examples include:

Bypass;
Delete Lock;
Pattern Unlock.

These programs work by being installed on both the smartphone and the PC. With remote recovery, you can trigger a reset from the computer. After rebooting, the pattern lock will disappear.

If Bypass was preinstalled, simply send an SMS with the text “1234 reset” to the device. Bypass will detect the command, reboot the smartphone, and remove the lock.

Method 3 – Drained battery

This method works on any Android phone but requires patience. Wait until the battery drains completely and a critical battery warning appears.

From this window, tap “Battery status.” This opens the battery usage statistics menu — no pattern needed.

The difficulty lies in the fact that the notification disappears within 10–15 seconds, making it hard to catch at the right moment.

Method 4 – Signing in with Google account

If you enter the wrong pattern more than five times, a notification appears requiring a wait before retrying. At that moment, a “Forgot pattern?” button is shown. Tapping it redirects to the Google account login screen.

Enter your email and password. After verification, the pattern lock is reset. You can then configure a new pattern in security settings.

Method 5 – Enabling internet connection

Google account verification requires an internet connection. If you entered the correct credentials but there is no connection, try enabling it using quick settings:

• Restart the phone;
• Open the status bar immediately after startup and enable “Mobile data”;
• If near a previously connected router, tap Wi-Fi to reconnect automatically.

After enabling the internet, re-enter Google account details to unlock the phone.

If the notification bar cannot be opened, use a special system code to connect to Wi-Fi:

• On the lock screen, tap “Emergency call”;

• Enter “*#*#7378423#*#*” (without quotes);

• Wait for the system configuration window to appear, then select Service Tests (or Service Provider);

• Select WLAN and connect to Wi-Fi.

If no router is nearby, insert a SIM card with mobile data and activate it. Enter Google+ credentials to unlock Android.

Method 6 – Manual option removal

This requires Recovery Mode, available only on official devices. Depending on whether you use CWM or TWRP, the interface may differ.

Transfer the Aroma File Manager archive from PC to the device’s memory card. Boot into Recovery Mode, open the archive, and install it. You will now have access to system files.

Navigate to data/system and delete the “gesture.key” file, which stores the pattern. Without it, the password is reset after reboot.

Method 7 – Instant OS recovery utility

This method also uses Recovery Mode. Install the GEST utility archive via PC. It automatically searches for and disables the Gesture Key file.

Once installed, reboot Android. On the lock screen, draw any pattern to unlock. Afterwards, disable the lock in security settings.

Method 8 – Deleting the key with an additional account

This method requires multiple authorized users and root access. Each account must have the SuperSU utility running in multi-user mode.

The pattern lock applies only to one account. If the same pattern is set on another account, the system rejects it. Thanks to this feature, you can always regain access by entering another user account and deleting the lock file in data/system.

Method 9 – Recovery menu and factory reset

This method works on any Android device. To remove a forgotten pattern, perform a factory reset.

This feature exists on all phones but normally requires access to settings. On a locked device, you must use Recovery Mode.

Turn off the phone and hold Home + Volume + Power to enter Recovery. Run the “data reset” process.

After reboot, reconfigure the gadget:

• Connect to the internet;
• Log in with Google;
• Set location preferences.

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