A ​​broken smartphone screen is one of the most unpleasant situations for the owner, especially if the device is locked with a password, pattern or fingerprint. Without the ability to interact with the display, even basic functions become unavailable: you cannot answer a call, read a message, or transfer data. However unlocking Android with a broken screen possible - and for this you do not always need to contact a service center.

In this article we will examine 7 proven methodswhich will help bypass the lock on devices with a damaged display - from use ADB and Fastboot to hardware solutions such as an OTG mouse or USB keyboard. We will pay special attention to the nuances for popular brands: Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei and Google Pixel. Important: some methods will lead to total data lossif backup is not enabled on the phone Google Account.

Before you begin, assess the degree of damage to the screen:

  • 🔹 The screen does not respond to touches, but the image is visible - methods with OTG devices or voice control will do.
  • 🔹 The display is completely black, but the phone makes sounds/vibrations - try unlocking via PC.
  • 🔹 The device does not turn on or is not detected by the computer - repair or replacement of the screen will be required.

If you are not confident in your technical skills, it is better to contact specialists - incorrect actions can lead to total data loss or the phone fails. But if you are willing to take the risk, read on!

1. Connecting an OTG mouse or keyboard: a simple method for devices with USB Type-C

The most accessible method if the screen visible, but does not respond to touch. Many modern smartphones support USB OTG (On-The-Go), which allows you to connect peripheral devices directly. You will need:

  • 🖱️ USB mouse (wired or wireless with an OTG adapter).
  • ⌨️ Keyboard with a micro-USB/Type-C connector (for entering the password).
  • 🔌 OTG adapter (if the mouse/keyboard has a standard USB-A).

Connect the mouse to the phone via an adapter. If the device supports OTG, the cursor will appear on the screen after 5-10 seconds. Next:

  1. Move the cursor to the password/pattern entry field.
  2. Click the left mouse button to activate the field.
  3. Enter the password using the on-screen keyboard (mouse-controlled) or a connected physical keyboard.

⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example Xiaomi Redmi Note 10), OTG may not work unless the corresponding setting is enabled in the developer menu. If the mouse is not detected, try other methods.

Connect the OTG adapter to the phone|Insert the mouse into the adapter|Wait for the cursor to appear (up to 15 seconds)|Check the response to clicks

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2. Unlocking via ADB (Android Debug Bridge): for advanced users

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) is a tool for debugging Android devices via a computer. If on your phone previously developer mode and USB debugging were enabled, you can unlock it even with a broken screen. The method works on most devices, including Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and OnePlus.

What to do:

  1. Download and install Platform Tools (includes ADB and Fastboot).
  2. Connect your phone to the PC via a USB cable (preferably original).
  3. Open the command line (cmd) in the folder with platform-tools.
  4. Enter the command to check the connection: 
    adb devices

    If the device is displayed in the list, go further.

  5. Delete the file with the password/pattern: 
    adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key

    or for the PIN code:

    adb shell rm /data/system/password.key
  6. Reboot the phone: 
    adb reboot

After the reboot, the lock screen should disappear. ⚠️ Attention: This method will reset all pattern locks and PIN codesbut will not affect the data on the device (photos, contacts, etc.). However, on some firmware (for example MIUI 14), after deleting the keys, you may need to enter your account Xiaomi.

What to do if ADB does not see the device?

1. Check if USB debugging is enabled (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times, then go back to Settings → System → For developers → USB debugging).

2. Try a different USB cable or port on your PC.

3. Install drivers for your model (for example Samsung USB Driver for Samsung devices).

4. Restart your phone and PC.

3. Using service codes to reset the lock

Some manufacturers provide hidden service codesthat allow you to reset the screen lock without losing data. This method does not work on all devices and depends on the model and firmware version.

Try the following codes (enter in the "Phone" application as a regular number):

Brand Code Action
Samsung ##7780## Reset settings (without deleting data)
Huawei ##2846579## Opens the testing menu (sometimes allows you to bypass the lock)
Xiaomi ##3646633## Engineering menu (may contain a password reset option)
Google Pixel ##72786## Checking hardware (sometimes resets the UI)

⚠️ Attention: Service codes may lock the device foreverif entered incorrectly. Do not use them on phones with custom firmware (for example, LineageOS).

Samsung|Xiaomi|Huawei|Google Pixel|Other-->

4. Unlocking via Google account (for Android 4.4 and below)

If your phone has Old version of Android (4.4 KitKat or older)installed, you can use the "Forgot your password?" function on the lock screen. After 5 unsuccessful attempts to enter the password, the system will prompt you to enter data from the account Googleassociated with the device.

How it works:

  1. Enter any password 5 times in a row (if the screen responds to touches).
  2. The “Forgot your pattern key?” or “Forgot your password?” button will appear.
  3. Enter the email and password Google Accountthat was synchronized with the phone.
  4. Reset the lock and set a new password.

⚠️ Attention: Starting with Android 5.0 Lollipop this method does not work —Google removed the feature due to security vulnerabilities. If you have a new version of the OS, proceed to other methods.

💡

If you have an old smartphone running Android 4.4, but the screen does not respond to touches, connect an OTG mouse to navigate through the password reset menu.

5. Reset via Recovery Mode: a radical method with data loss

If other methods did not work, the only option is Hard reset (Hard Reset) via recovery mode (Recovery Mode). This method Deletes all data from the deviceincluding photos, messages and installed applications. Use it only as a last resort!

Instructions for most Android devices:

  1. Turn off the phone (press and hold the power button for 10-15 seconds).
  2. Hold down the combination of buttons to enter Recovery:
    • 📱 Samsung: Power + Volume Up + Bixby (or Home on older models).
    • 📱 Xiaomi/Redmi: Power + Volume Up.
    • 📱 Huawei/Honor: Power + Volume Up (hold for 10 sec).
    • 📱 Google Pixel: Power + Volume Down, then select Recovery Mode.
  • In the menu Recovery (control with volume buttons, select with power button) select Wipe data/factory reset.
  • Confirm reset (Yes — Delete all user data).
  • After completion, select Reboot system now.

    • ⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Samsung with Knox) after the reset, you may need to enter the login and password for the last account Samsung or Google. If you do not remember them, the phone will become a “brick.”

    💡

    Resetting via Recovery is the only way to unlock the phone if the screen is completely inoperative and other methods do not help. But be prepared to lose all your data!

    6. Unlocking via Find My Device (for devices with active Internet)

    If your phone Geolocation services and Internet access are included (via a mobile network or Wi-Fi), you can use the service Find My Device from Google for remote unlocking. The method works even if the screen is broken, but the device is connected to the network.

    Step-by-step guide:

    1. Go to the site Find My Device from a computer or another phone.
    2. Login using the same account Googlethat is linked to the blocked device.
    3. Select your smartphone in the list of devices.
    4. Click"Lock device" (yes, even if it is already blocked).
    5. Enter new temporary password (twice) and confirm.
    6. On a locked phone, enter this temporary password - it will replace the old one.

      7. ⚠️ Attention: This method will not workif:

      • 🚫 Disabled on the phone Remote control or Find device in settings Google.
      • 🚫 The device is not connected to the Internet (for example, a broken screen damaged the antenna).
      • 🚫 The phone is turned off or discharged.

      7. Hardware repair: when nothing helps

      If software methods do not work, all that remains is physical repair. Here are the options available:

      • 🔧 Replacement of touch glass (if the screen is visible, but does not respond to touches). Cost: from 1,500 to 10,000 ₽ depending on the model.
      • 🖥️ Connecting to an external display via HDMI (on some flagships, for example, Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra with support DeX).
      • 🔌 Flashing through a service center (if the bootloader is locked).
      • 📱 Replacing the entire display module (the most expensive option, but guarantees performance).

      Before repairs, make sure that the technician has experience working with your model - for example, Xiaomi s AMOLED screens often requires additional calibration after replacement.

      ⚠️ Attention: If the function was enabled on the phone OEM Unlock in the developer settings, the service center will be able to unlock it without losing data. If not, you will have to do a reset.

      💡

      Before repairing, check whether your device is out of warranty. For example, Samsung i Apple sometimes they cover screen replacement under warranty, even if the damage is mechanical (subject to purchasing insurance).

      FAQ: Frequently asked questions about unlocking Android with a broken screen

      Is it possible to unlock the phone if the screen is completely black and does not turn on?

      If the phone does not work signs of life (does not vibrate, does not make sounds when charging), the problem may be in or damaged motherboard. board or the battery. In this case, unlocking using software methods is impossible - diagnostics are required at the service center. If the device turns on (sounds are heard, the indicator lights up), try connecting through ADB or Fastboot.

      Will Touch ID (fingerprint) work on a broken screen?

      Yes, fingerprint scanner usually continues to work even if the touch screen is damaged. Try unlocking your phone with your usual fingerprint. If the scanner is located on the back panel (as on Google Pixel 6), the chances are higher. On devices with an under-screen scanner (for example Samsung Galaxy S21), precise pressing may be required - use a stylus or toothpick.

      How to transfer data from a phone if the screen is broken, but the device is unlocked?

      If the phone unlocked, but the screen does not work, connect it to the PC via USB and use:

      • 📂 Windows Explorer (to access files in folders DCIM, Downloads etc.).
      • 🔄 ADB Pull to copy specific files: 
        adb pull /sdcard/ path_to_PC
      • ☁️ Google Photos/Driveif automatic synchronization is enabled.

      For contacts and messages, use backups in Google Account.

      Will flashing the phone help bypass the screen lock?

      Flashing via Fastboot or ODIN (for Samsung) can reset the lock, but:

      • 🔓 On most modern devices, this will lead to resetting all data.
      • 🔒 If protection is enabled FRP (Factory Reset Protection), after the firmware you will need to enter the login and password from the last Google Account.
      • ⚠️ Incorrect firmware can finally disable the phone ("brick").

      We recommend contacting a service center for professional flashing.

      What to do if, after unlocking, the phone requires the old PIN code?

      This is a typical situation for devices with data encryption (for example, Google Pixel or OnePlus with enabled File-Based Encryption).ADBRecovery has been locked, the system may request the old password to decrypt the data. In this case:

      • 🔑 Try to enter the last used password (even if the screen does not respond, connect an OTG keyboard).
      • ☁️ If the password is lost, the only way out is full reset with loss data.