How do I set up my Google account on my Samsung Galaxy device?
PLEASE NOTE: that the type of data you can back up will depend on your device and the operating system being used.
A Google account can be used to back up your data, download applications from the Play Store, and transfer your data to a new device.
The type of data that can be backed up: Google Contacts data, Google Calendar events and settings, Wi-Fi networks and passwords, Wallpaper, Gmail settings, Apps, Display settings (brightness and sleep), Language and input settings, Date and time, Settings and data apps not made by Google (this varies by app).
To back up some data, you will need to enable Sync Google Drive on your account.
You can set up a Google account through settings if you skipped the Google account steps during the setup wizard when you very first turned on your device.
Note: to back up the data mentioned above, you will need to enable Sync Drive. You may need to scroll down for this option.
Why do I need to re-enter my Google account after a factory reset?
Google have introduced a new device protection measure. If you have a Google account on your device, you will need to re-enter your Google account details to complete the set up after a factory reset.
This will prevent other people from using the device if they reset it to factory settings without your permission. For example, if your device is lost or stolen, only someone with your Google account will be able to re-use the device after it has been reset.
Google has more information about the measure here.
The extra protection measure is applicable for devices running Android OS 5.1 Lollipop or higher.
I don't have a gmail account but it's still trying to make me put in Google account details
Your Google account email does not have to be a gmail account. You will have been asked to provide your personal details including email when you set up the device. Tip: it will probably be the email account you use to make downloads on the Google Play Store.
I don't remember my Google account password
If you can't remember your password, you can reset your Google account password here.
I entered my Google details and it returned me to the Terms and conditions screen.
If you have more than one Google account and or do not use the Google account registered for protection during set up, or enter your information incorrectly, the device will return to the Terms and conditions screen. Ensure you enter the Google details for the account on your device.
Why can't I skip the 'Connect to Wi-Fi' step?
If you do not have a SIM card in the device, you will need to connect to Wi-Fi in order to complete the set up.
1. The device will take you to the Wi-Fi screen. Drag the Wi-Fi bar to the right so it appears as 'On'
2. Tap on the network you need to connect to and enter the password if prompted
3. You can now start entering your Google account details
I recently changed my Google password but it won't let me complete the set up
For security purposes, you can't use an account to complete the set up if the password was changed within 72 hours. Wait 72 hours after changing your password, and try again.
If you're experiencing unusual behaviour on Samsung mobiles, tablets or wearables, you can send us an error report or ask us a question in the Samsung Members app.
This allows us to a closer look at what is happening. The data is anonymised and only held for the duration of the investigation. Find out more about sending an error report through the Samsung Members app.
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