USB connection restriction while the screen is locked on your Galaxy phone or tablet

Starting with One UI 7.0, Galaxy devices restrict USB connections while the screen is locked for one hour to protect your data and prevent unauthorized access. This feature ensures your personal information remains protected when the device is locked. However, it may affect connectivity with USB devices like Android Auto, PC connections, or external accessories. This guide explains how USB connection restrictions work while the screen is locked and provides steps to manage these settings.
A Galaxy phone lying on a white table next to a USB connector.
A Galaxy phone lying on a white table next to a USB connector.

USB connection restriction while the screen is locked on your Galaxy phone or tablet

When 'Block USB connections while locked' is ON (Default):

USB connected with screen locked after phone restarting: Connection restricted until screen unlocked.
 

USB connected before screen locked within 1 hour: Connections allowed under certain conditions.

  • Android Auto/PC connection: Connection for the USB driver is available within 1 hour after being locked. 
  • USB external devices (mouse/audio/keyboard): Connection is restricted right after locking for initially connected devices; allowed for devices with prior connection history.
     

USB connected after screen locked for 1 hour: Connection restricted until screen unlocked.

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Block USB connections notification:

When connecting a USB device while the screen is locked, a notification will appear: "To use USB device, unlock your phone and reconnect the USB device." Charging is available, but data transfer is blocked.
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Acess Block USB connection while locked settings:

Navigate to and tap Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Block USB connections while locked (On by default).
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