What is Extend Unlock feature and how do I set it on?

Last Update date : 2024-05-28

You can keep your Galaxy phone safe by avoiding typing in your PIN or password every time you use it. By setting up the Extend Unlock feature, you can keep your phone unlocked when you are holding it or at a specific place. Check the guide below to set when and where your device stays unlocked.

Lock screen

Note: Before you try the recommendations below, be sure to check if your device's software and related apps are updated to the latest version.

What is Extend Unlock and how do I turn it on?

You can set your phone to unlock itself and remain unlocked when in trusted locations or when other devices are detected. For example, if you have set your home as a trusted location, when you get home your device will detect the location and automatically unlock itself. First, you need to set a screen lock method before you can use this feature. To set the Extend Unlock, follow the steps below.

Step 1. Launch the Settings app, and then tap Lock screen and AOD.

Step 2. Tap Extend Unlock and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Step 3. Tap on the Extend Unlock type that you want to use. You can check the guide for each Extend Unlock type below.

Extend Unlock settings

Note: 

  • This feature will be available to use after you set a screen lock method.
  • If you do not use your device for four hours or when you turn on the device, you must unlock the screen using the pattern, PIN, or password you set.

You can keep your phone unlocked while it is on you. Just unlock it once, and it will stay unlocked as long as it’s in motion, like when you’re holding or carrying your device. Your device will lock when it detects that it’s been set down. To enable On-body detection, follow the steps below. 

On-body detection On-body detection

Step 1. Tap On-body detection.

Use On-body detection Use On-body detection

Step 2. Turn on Use on-Body detection.

Tap On body detection switch Tap On body detection switch

Step 3. Tap Continue to agree to the on-screen notifications and enable On-body detection.

Note: On-body detection cannot distinguish between you and anybody else. If someone takes your device while it's unlocked, they may still be able to access it

You can set a location where the phone will stay unlocked. If you have a Home location defined in Google Maps, it will automatically be available as a trusted place. To add another place, follow the steps below.

Trusted Places Trusted Places

Step 1. Tap Trusted places.

Add trusted place Add trusted place

Step 2. Tap Add trusted place.

Trusted places search bar Trusted places search bar

Step 3. Find the place you want to add using the search bar or the map.

Trusted places location Trusted places location

Step 4. When the area to be unlocked is displayed, tap Select this location.

Trusted places Trusted places

Step 5. Tap OK to confirm

If you add a trusted device, your phone will remain unlocked when it's nearby or connected to the trusted device. Your phone may be locked if disconnected from the trusted device, even if it reconnects. To add a trusted device, follow the steps below.

Trusted Devices Trusted Devices

Step 1. Tap Trusted devices.

Add trusted device Add trusted device

Step 2. Tap Add trusted device.

Choose Device Choose Device

Step 3. Tap on the Device you want to add.

Add trusted device Add trusted device

Step 4. Tap Add.

Note:  Bluetooth connection range may be affected by the environment that you are using your device in.

Note: 

  • Device screenshots and menus may vary depending on the device model and software version.
  • If you have any questions after verifying the above-mentioned solutions, please call our contact center to get help with your inquiry. Our helpful agents will be there to help you.

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