To change password on android phone, open your device's Settings, then tap Security or Security & privacy, followed by Screen lock. You must enter your current PIN, pattern, or password before you can choose a new lock type and confirm it.
Change your screen lock on a Google Pixel or stock Android
On a Google Pixel or a phone running stock Android, the verified path from Google is consistent. Open Settings and select Security or Security & privacy. Tap Screen lock. Enter your current PIN, password, or pattern if one is already set. Choose the new lock type, PIN, password, or pattern, and follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your choice. For iPhones, the path is Settings > Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode, then tap Change Passcode. Apple's support page says the default change flow uses a new six-digit passcode. Google explicitly notes that if the Security option is not present, you should check the phone manufacturer’s support site, as the exact menu path varies by device and Android version.
Change your screen lock on a Samsung Galaxy phone
Samsung Galaxy phones use a different menu structure that depends on your Android version and region. On devices running Android 7.0 or 8.0, go to Settings > Lock Screen and Security > Screen lock type. On newer Samsung models, the path is Settings > Lock Screen > Lock Screen. Both paths require you to enter your current unlock method before you can set a new pattern, PIN, or password. Because menu names differ by Android version and device software, the exact path is not the same on every Galaxy phone.
What to do if you forgot your current password or pattern
If you forget your current screen lock, some Samsung devices show a Forgot PIN/password/pattern? prompt after five unsuccessful attempts. On supported models, this allows you to reset the lock using a previous screen lock. On Samsung devices, after five unsuccessful attempts, a Forgot PIN/password/pattern? prompt may appear on some devices, allowing reset with a previous screen lock on supported models. For other Android phones, Google’s Find My Device service can be used as a last resort to remotely lock or erase the device, though this may require signing in to your Google account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my Android phone password remotely?
Yes, if you have enabled Find My Device or a similar service, you can log in to your Google account and remotely lock your phone or set a new password while the device is connected to the internet.
What should I do if I forget my Android phone password and no recovery option appears?
After repeated failed attempts, if no recovery prompt appears, you may need to perform a factory reset, which erases all data on the phone. Back up important files beforehand if possible, or use Find My Device to remotely erase the device.
Can I use a fingerprint or face unlock to change my password?
No, biometric unlock methods cannot be used to change the password itself. You must enter your current PIN, pattern, or password through the device’s security settings to make changes.
Why does the menu path differ between Android phones?
The exact menu varies by device manufacturer and Android version, and Google explicitly directs users to the manufacturer’s support site when the Security option is not found.
Does changing my screen lock affect other security features like Smart Lock?
No, changing your screen lock type does not require you to enable or disable extra security features such as Smart Lock or fingerprint authentication. Those settings remain independent and can be managed separately.
Is there a cost to change my phone’s screen lock password?
No, changing your screen lock PIN, password, or pattern is a free feature built into every Android device. There is no documented price for this action.
For the wider topic, see bypassing phone lock screens.
Related reading: How To Change Samsung Phone Password If You Forgot and How To Remove Pin On Android Phone.
