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A step-by-step guide to using Gmail to get into Android or to reset it
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Have you set a pattern lock that you don't remember? It can be frustrating if you want to unlock your phone but forget the pattern or PIN you set up. However, if you have a Google account logged into your Android phone, you can set a new PIN or password to get into your phone. This wikiHow article will teach you how to unlock an Android phone with a Google account if you have Android 4.4 or lower.

Unlock Android Pattern with a Google Account

If you can't unlock your Android because you don't know the pattern, you can reset the pattern by logging in with your Google account, but only if you're using Android 4.4 or lower. On newer Androids, you'll need to factory reset your phone.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Android 5.0 and Later

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  1. Go to https://android.com/find and sign into your Google account. If you're using Android 5 (Lollipop) or later, there is no way to unlock your pattern-locked phone with your Google/Gmail account without factory resetting your Android. You'll lose all personal data that isn't backed up, including pictures, videos, and documents.
    • To reset your Android, these conditions must be true:[1]
    • The phone is turned on and has power
    • It's connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data
    • It's visible on Google Play
    • Find My Device is turned on
  2. For security reasons, this is the only way to get into a phone when you've forgotten the PIN, password, or pattern.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Android 4.4 and Earlier

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  1. After the fifth attempt, you'll get a pop-up window that gives you the option to continue with "Forgot Pattern."
    • You can't do this with updated versions of the OS. Your phone must have Android software 4.4 or lower in Settings > About Phone.[3]
  2. Forgot pattern is at the bottom of the screen and Next will appear in the pop-up.
  3. When you select "Enter Google account details," a checkmark will appear next to it.
  4. You'll need to use the Google email and password you are logged in with.
    • Tap Sign in when you're done.[4]
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About This Article

Darlene Antonelli, MA
Written by:
wikiHow Technology Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Darlene Antonelli, MA. Darlene has been writing and editing tech content at wikiHow since 2019. She previously worked for AppleCare, served as a writing tutor, volunteered in IT at an animal rescue, and taught as an adjunct professor for EN101 and EN102. Darlene has completed Coursera courses on technology, writing, and language. She holds both a BA (2011) and an MA (2012) from Rowan University in Writing, with a focus on workplace communication. With her extensive experience, academic background, and ongoing learning, Darlene has become the go-to grammar expert for her friends and family, as well as a skilled wordsmith for anyone in need. This article has been viewed 29,602 times.
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Co-authors: 3
Updated: January 1, 2025
Views: 29,602
Categories: Android
Article SummaryX

1. Try to unlock the phone at least 5 times.
2. Tap Forgot Pattern and Next.
3. Tap Enter Google account details and Next.
4. Enter your Google account information.

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