Different methods to unlock the Galaxy Tab
To keep your personal data safe, the Galaxy Tab incorporates a series of locking methods that will help you feel secure. Protect your information with any of the following screen lock types.
Please note: Screen images and security features may vary depending on the Galaxy Tab model.
If you are having difficulties unlocking your galaxy device you can find out further information about how to unlock your device.
The setting will be found in a slightly different place, depending on the model and operating system.
For newer devices, you can find the lock screen settings at Settings > Lock screen and security OR Lock screen > Screen lock type.
You can set your device to unlock whenever you swipe the screen or by pressing the power button (None).
This is the lowest level of security. Note that some app developers require a minimum level of security in order for the app to work. Banking apps, in particular, will normally require that you have a minimum level of security set on your device in order to use it.
Please note: If you have set biometric information such as a fingerprint or iris scan, and then change your method to Swipe or None, your biometric information will be wiped, and you will need to re-enter your fingerprint or iris information if you change the unlock method back.
You can set your lock method to Swipe or None by going to: Settings > Lock screen and security OR Lock screen > Screen lock type.
You can set your device to unlock by drawing a pattern on the screen. This will require at least four dots.
Please note: Be careful when entering the pattern in public as it could be easily seen and copied.
You can set your device to unlock with a PIN. This needs at least four digits.
Please note: Be careful when entering the PIN in public as it could be easily seen and copied.
You can set a password to unlock your tablet’s screen. This will need a minimum of four letters, numbers or symbols.
Facial recognition uses the contours of your face to recognise you. You can then unlock your device simply by looking at it. While Facial recognition is a convenient way to unlock your tablet, for certified security we recommend using the fingerprint lock. Some apps (such as banking apps) and the Secure Folder can't be accessed using Facial recognition only. You will need to use a registered fingerprint or PIN.
When you set up Facial Recognition as your default method, you will also need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password for additional security. Ensure you set it to something memorable. You will need to enter your backup method in certain circumstances, such as if the device is restarted.
You can set your face scan at: Settings > Biometrics and Security > Face recognition.
When setting up face recognition for the first time, you can alternatively go to: Settings > Lock screen > Screen lock type > Face.
Please note: This security feature is available on the Galaxy Tab S4, Tab S5e and Tab S6.
Fingerprint Recognition uses the unique characteristics of your fingerprint to unlock the device. This not only makes it highly secure, but is also a very convenient and fast way to unlock your Galaxy Tab.
When you set up Fingerprint Recognition as your default method, you will also need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password for additional security. Ensure you set it to something memorable. You will need to enter your backup method in certain circumstances, such as if the device is restarted.
You can set your fingerprint (or add additional fingerprints) at: Settings >“Biometrics and Security > Fingerprint scanner > Add fingerprint.
When setting up a fingerprint for the first time, you can alternatively go to: Settings > Lock screen or Lock screen and security > Screen lock type > Fingerprints.
Please note: This unlock method is available on the Galaxy Tab S3 (Home key), S5e (Power key on the right side) and Tab S6 (sensor on the bottom of the screen).
Please note: Your fingerprint may not be recognised in certain circumstances, such as if your fingers are dirty or you have spent a long time swimming or washing dishes and the skin is water-logged. Find out more information about what to do if your fingerprint scanner isn’t working.
To remove a registered Fingerprint go to Settings > Biometrics and security > Fingerprints.
Enter the alternative unlock method registered. Then select the fingerprint you want to delete by tapping and holding it for 2-3 seconds and tap Remove.
On the Galaxy Tab S4, you can also register your iris to unlock your tablet’s screen.
The shape and pattern of your iris are unique. When you use the special features of your eyes to lock your device, you get high security for your Galaxy tablet.
Your iris data can also be used for various other authentication purposes, such as Samsung Pass (Samsung account verification and web sign-in) and the Secure Folder.
The iris scan sensors are located on the front of the top of your tablet. Hold your face in the marker displayed and follow the instructions to unlock your tablet with your iris data.
When you set up Iris Scan as your default method, you will also need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password for additional security. Ensure you set it to something memorable. You will need to enter your backup method in certain circumstances, such as if the device is restarted.
Please note: When using the iris scanner, keep the device around 20-35 centimetres from your face. The iris scanner may not work effectively if you have a screen protector on your device, you are wearing glasses or have had recent eye surgery.
You can set up the Intelligent Scan at: Settings > Biometrics and Security > Irises.
When setting up the Intelligent Scan for the first time, you can alternatively go to: Settings > Lock screen > Screen lock type > Iris.
If you want to remove a registered Iris go to Settings > Biometrics and security > Irises.
Enter the alternative unlock method registered. Then tap Remove iris data and confirm by tapping Remove.
On the Galaxy Tab S4, you can also set your device to unlock using the Intelligent Scan.
The Intelligent Scan uses both your face and iris to unlock the screen of your tablet, increasing security and ease of use. With this feature, you can easily unlock the screen even when the environment is very dark or too bright.
When you set up Intelligent Scan as your default method, you will also need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password for additional security. Ensure you set it to something memorable. You will need to enter your backup method in certain circumstances, such as if the device is restarted.
Please note: When using the Intelligent Scan, keep the device around 20-35 centimetres from your face. The Intelligent Scan may not work effectively if you have a screen protector on your device, you are wearing glasses or have had recent eye surgery.
You can set up the Intelligent Scan at: Settings > Biometrics and Security > Intelligent Scan.
When setting up the Intelligent Scan for the first time, you can alternatively go to: Settings > Lock screen > Screen lock type > Intelligent Scan.
If you want to remove registered face and iris data go to Settings > Biometrics and security > Intelligent Scan.
Enter the alternative unlock method registered. Then tap Remove face and iris data and confirm by tapping Remove.
In OS Android Pie, if you set a PIN, pattern or password as the unlocking method, you have the chance to let Samsung securely store your unlocking method for your tablet in Find My Mobile.
This allows you to unlock your tablet in case you forget your unlock method. It also allows you to control a lost tablet remotely, even when it’s locked.
Tap Continue after setting up a PIN, pattern or password.
If you aren’t logged into your Samsung account, set up or login to your Samsung account to save your unlock data securely.
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