Changing the password on a smartphone is a procedure that may be needed in a variety of situations: from a banal desire to update the combination to the need to restore access after data loss. This version of the operating system, released in Android 10 - a procedure that may be needed in a variety of situations: from a banal desire to update a combination to the need to restore access after data loss. This version of the operating system released in 2019is still actively used on millions of devices, including models Samsung Galaxy S10, Google Pixel 3/4, Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 and many others. However, the interface and security settings in Android 10 have their own characteristics that are important to consider.

Unlike newer versions (for example, Android 12+), where protection algorithms have become more complex, Android 10 offers more straightforward paths password changes - both through standard settings and using an account Google. At the same time, users often encounter typical problems: the system does not accept a new password, requires an old combination (which the user has forgotten), or completely blocks the device after several unsuccessful attempts. In this article, we will examine all current methods password changes, including emergency measures for unlocking, and also give recommendations on choosing reliable protection.

1. Standard method: changing the password through the settings

If your smartphone is unlocked and you remember the current password (or PIN), the easiest way to update the protection is to use the built-in settings Android 10. This method works on all devices, regardless of the manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei etc.), as it uses the standard system interface.

To change the password:

  • 📱 Open the menu Settings (gear icon on the main screen or in the notification panel).
  • 🔒 Go to Security or Lock screen (on some devices - Biometrics and security).
  • 🔑 Select item Screen lock type or Password/PIN/Pattern.
  • 📝 Enter current password to confirm.
  • ✅ Set new passwordfollowing the system prompts (minimum 4 characters for PIN, 6+ for text password).

On some devices (for example, Samsung with shell One UI) the path may be slightly different:

Settings → Biometrics and security → Screen lock → Lock type
⚠️ Attention: If you use pattern pattern, the system may require you to enter it twice to confirm. On Android 10 there is no “forgot the pattern key” function in this menu - if an error occurs, you will have to reset the settings.

Remember the current password/PIN

Connect the device to charging (in case of failure)

Make sure that synchronization with your Google account is enabled

Close all applications (especially banking)

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2. Changing the password through your Google account (if you forgot the old one)

If you do not remember the current password, but it is linked to the device account Google, you can use the function "Forgot your password?". This method only works if:

  • 📶 The device is connected to Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
  • 🔄 Enabled synchronization with Google (check in Settings → Accounts).
  • 🔑 You remember logins and passwords from the linked account.

Recovery instructions:

  1. On the lock screen, enter wrong password 5 times (the system will offer alternative unlocking methods).
  2. Click on the button that appears Forgot your password? or Restore access.
  3. Enter the data from Google account, which is associated with the device.
  4. Follow the system instructions to reset the password (confirmation by SMS or email may be required).
⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Huawei without Google services) this method does not work. Instead, you may need to reset via Hard Reset.
Manufacturer Supports recovery via Google? Alternative method
Samsung Yes (via Find My Mobile) Reset via Recovery Mode
Xiaomi Yes (Mi-account required) Unlock via Fastboot
Google Pixel Yes (standard method) Use ADB
Huawei (without GMS) No Only Hard Reset

Password (text)

PIN code

Pattern key

Fingerprint/face

I don’t use a lock-->

3. Resetting the password via Recovery Mode (for experienced users)

If the standard methods do not work, you can try resetting the password via recovery mode (Recovery Mode). This method deletes all data from devices, so it should be used only as a last resort. Suitable for devices where the function is disabled Factory Reset Protection (FRP) or you remember data from your Google account.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Turn off your smartphone (press and hold the power button for 10+ seconds).
  2. Press the button combination to enter Recovery:
    • 📱 Samsung: Power + Volume Up + Bixby.
    • 📱 Xiaomi/Redmi: Power + Volume up.
    • 📱 Google Pixel: Power + Volume down (then select Recovery Mode).
  • In the menu Recovery using the volume buttons, select Wipe data/factory reset and confirm your choice.
  • After resetting, reboot the device (Reboot system now).

    • After this procedure you will need:

    • 🔄 Log in to the account Googlethat was linked to the device (if enabled FRP).
    • ⚙️ Set a new password in the lock settings.
    • ☁️ Restore data from a backup (if one was created).
    ⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 10 and newer after Hard Reset confirmation may be required via PIN code from the SIM card or additional account data. Make sure you have them!
    What is Factory Reset Protection (FRP)?

    Factory Reset Protection is a security feature in Android that is activated after a factory reset. It requires input from the last synced Google account to prevent device theft. On Android 10, FRP is enabled by default if a Google account was configured on the device.

    4. Using ADB to reset the password (without data loss)

    For users who have access. k USB debugging (USB Debugging, there is a way to reset the password without completely resetting the device. This method requires preliminary configuration and only works if:

    • 🔌 On the device mode is enabled developer i USB Debugging.
    • 💻 There is access to a computer with installed ADB drivers.
    • 📡 The device is connected to the PC via USB cable.

    Instructions:

    1. Connect your smartphone to the computer and open Command Line (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
    2. Enter the command to check connections: 
      adb devices

      (the name of your device should be displayed).

    3. Delete the password file (for Android 10): 
      adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key

      adb shell rm /data/system/password.key
      

      adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db
      

      adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal
      

      adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm

    4. Restart the device: 
      adb reboot

    After reboot, the lock screen should disappear and you can set a new password through settings. Important: this method does not work on all devices (for example, on Samsung s Knox or Xiaomi c MIUI 12+).

    💡

    If ADB does not recognize the device, try reinstalling the drivers or using a different USB cable (original).

    5. Features of changing the password on devices of different brands

    Smartphone manufacturers often modify the standard one Android 10, adding their own security features. This can complicate or, conversely, simplify the process of changing your password. Let's look at the key differences:

    Samsung (One UI 2.0/2.5):

    • 🔐 Supports unlocking via Samsung Find My Mobile (registration in the service is required).
    • 📱 On some models (for example, Galaxy S10) there is a function Secure Folderthat is blocked separately.
    • ⚠️ After Hard Reset requires input of data from Samsung Accountif it has been linked.

    Xiaomi (MIUI 11/12):

    • 🔑 To reset the password you need Mi-account (even if the device is not linked to Google).
    • 📲 In the settings there is an option Second space, which may have a separate password.
    • 🔄 On some models (Redmi Note 8 Pro) reset via Recovery requires confirmation via SMS.

    Google Pixel:

    • 🔒 Supports Titan M a hardware security module that makes it difficult to bypass the password.
    • ☁️ Recovery via Google works more stable than on others devices.
    • 🛠️ ADB commands may require unlocking OEM Unlock in the developer settings.
    Brand Specific functions Difficulty password reset
    Samsung Knox, Secure Folder, Find My Mobile Medium (requires a Samsung account)
    Xiaomi Mi Account, Second space High (reset is not possible without an account)
    Google Pixel Titan M, pure Android Low (standard methods work)
    Huawei Huawei ID, lack of GMS Very high (Hard Reset only)
    💡

    On devices with custom shells (MIUI, One UI), standard instructions for pure Android 10 may not work. Always check for proprietary recovery functions (for example, Find My Mobile from Samsung).

    6. How to choose a strong password for Android 10

    Changing your password is a good reason to reconsider your approach to security. On Android 10 several types of blocking are available, and their reliability varies greatly:

    Types of blocking by level of protection (from weak to strong):

    1. Swipe or No blocking — 0% protection (data available to anyone).
    2. Pattern key — low protection (easy to pick up or see by traces on the screen).
    3. PIN code (4 digits) — medium protection (vulnerable to brute-force attacks).
    4. PIN code (6+ digits) — good protection (recommended option).
    5. Text password — maximum protection (if a complex combination is used).
    6. Biometrics (fingerprint/face) + PIN — optimal balance.

    Recommendations for creating a password:

    • 🔢 For PIN code use 6+ digits (for example, 749201 instead of 1234).
    • 🔤 For text password combine letters, numbers and symbols (for example, T3$la!Andr0id).
    • 🔄 Do not use dates birthdays, names or repeating sequences (1111, qwerty).
    • 📱 Set automatic lock after 30 seconds of inactivity (Settings → Lock screen → Auto-lock).
    ⚠️ Attention: There is no function Android 10 missing function Smart Lock (unlock by location or device) as standard. It is only available on devices with Google Play Services.

    7. Frequent errors and how to avoid them

    When changing a password to Android 10 users often encounter typical problems. Here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:

    Error 1: The system does not accept the new password

    • 🔹 Make sure you enter current password correctly (case is important!).
    • 🔹 Reboot the device and try again.
    • 🔹 If used graphic key, check if it is enabled option Hide trajectory (it can be confusing).

    Error 2: After resetting via Recovery, the old password is required

    • 🔹 This manifestation Factory Reset Protection (FRP) —enter the data from Google accountthat was on the device.
    • 🔹 If the account is not remembered, use Google recovery service.

    Error 3: ADB does not see the device

    • 🔹 Check if it is enabled USB debugging (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times, then Settings → System → For developers).
    • 🔹 Install official drivers for your device (for example Samsung USB Driver for Galaxy).

    Error 4: After changing the password, notifications stopped working

    • 🔹 Check your settings Notifications on the lock screen (Settings → Notifications → On the lock screen).
    • 🔹 Reboot your device - sometimes this clears temporary glitches.
    💡

    If fingerprints are lost after changing the password, you need to add them again in the security settings.

    FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to change the password on Android 10 without losing data?

    Yes, if you remember the current password, use the standard settings (Settings → Security → Screen lock). If you forgot your password, but USB debugging is enabled, you can try ADB (see section 4). In other cases, you will need a reset, which will delete the data.

    What to do if after resetting via Recovery, the phone asks for the account of the previous owner?

    This Factory Reset Protection (FRP)This is Google account, which was linked to the device before the reset. If the device was purchased second-hand and the previous owner did not unlink the account, contact him. required Samsung may be required Samsung Account, on Xiaomi — Mi Account.

    How to change the password if the touch screen does not work?

    If the sensor does not respond, but the device turns on, connect USB mouse via an OTG adapter - this way you can control the interface. If the screen is completely broken, try connecting via ADB (if debugging was enabled) or reset via Recovery Mode (blind method: hold down the buttons, wait for vibration, then press Volume down 4 times and Power selection Wipe data).

    Is it possible to bypass the password on Android 10 without resetting?

    Theoretically, yes, but only if:

    • 🔹 Enabled USB debugging and there is access to the PC with ADB.
    • 🔹 The device is rooted (but this will void the warranty).
    • 🔹 There is a backup copy TWRP with the ability to edit system files.

    On most devices without these conditions, password bypass is impossible without data loss.

    Why did the old password stop working after updating to Android 10?

    This can happen due to:

    • 🔹 Update failure — try rebooting the device.
    • 🔹 Security policy changes (for example, if a simple PIN was previously used, but now it is required 6+ characters).
    • 🔹 Conflicts with the proprietary shell (on MIUI or One UI sometimes blocking settings are reset).

    Solution: use recovery via Google account or reset your password via Recovery.