How do I unlock my TYPE-S if I forgot my PIN password/pattern?

The TYPE-S runs on an Android 9 Operating System, as such some methods that were used on Androids 4 and lower will not work.

Due to the features of the Google Factory Reset Protection, We highly recommend before using the TYPE-S to set up the Smart Lock feature which will allow you options to unlock your unit in an event you forget your PIN password/pattern.

Android Smart Lock

Click on the "settings" icon — locate "security & location" — then scroll down to the "Smart Lock" and set up your device based on your preference.

If you did not set up the Smart Lock feature then there are other options available to unlock your device.

Using Google Android Device Manager

Be aware that this option will reset your TYPE-S and remove any data and apps from your device.

To execute this option, use the browser of another device or computer to log in to your Google account and use the "Find My Device" feature (or go to google.com/android/find?u=0) and locate your TYPE-S.

For instructions on how to set up the Google Android Device Manager CLICK HERE

Once it connects, select "Erase Device" and it will reset the device back to the factory settings and you will have to start from scratch and re-enter your credentials. 

If you have forgotten both your pin number/pattern and google credentials you can try to use the following method below but due to Google Factory Reset Protection, it may not be possible.

TYPE-S "Recovery Mode"

To enter the unit into "Recovery Mode" follow these steps:

• Power off the unit.
• Plug a USB-C charging cable into the unit and connect it to a power source.
• Wait until the unit begins charging and then press the "Power" and "Volume Up" button on the sides of the device at the same time. The screen will briefly flash and will begin the start-up protocol.
• Release the "power" button after it enters the boot-up screen, but keep pressing the "Volume Up" button for about 5 seconds.

Once you release the volume button, the unit should boot up to this screen:

When it boots to this screen, press both the "Power" and both the "Volume Up" and "Volume Down" buttons at the same time and hold for 1 to 3 seconds and it should take you to the "Android Recovery" screen.

You can navigate the options using the Volume Up/Volume Down and Power buttons to select options. Select "Wipe Data/Factory Reset" and it will reset the device back to factory settings which will allow you to start from scratch and re-enter your credentials.

Third-Party App

There are third-party apps that claim to be able to unlock Android devices in the event of a forgotten PIN password/pattern, but we do not recommend using third-party apps to unlock your TYPE-S.