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Accounts & PasswordsPhones & Tablets

How do I reset a forgotten Google Pixel phone password?

Answer

A second tablet cannot unlock a Pixel phone’s lock screen. If the Pixel lock PIN or password is forgotten, the usual fix is a factory reset on the phone itself. If only the Google account password is forgotten, reset that password from any browser using Google’s official account recovery.

Before you start: stop right away if…

  • Factory resetting a Pixel deletes local photos, apps, and messages that were not backed up.

Follow these steps

  1. Separate lock-screen vs Google account password

    If the Pixel will not open past the lock screen, the issue is the device PIN/password. If the phone unlocks but Play Store or Google apps reject the password, the issue is the Google account.

    You should see: You know which password needs recovery.

  2. Reset a forgotten Google account password from another device

    On a tablet or computer browser, open Google’s official account recovery page, enter the account email, and follow the verification prompts using backup codes, recovery email, or phone number.

    You should see: You set a new Google password, or Google explains what verification is still needed.

  3. Factory reset the Pixel if the lock screen is forgotten

    A tablet cannot clear the Pixel lock. Power off the Pixel, enter recovery mode with the model’s button combination, and choose Wipe data/factory reset.

    You should see: The Pixel erases local data and restarts to setup.

  4. Sign in again after reset

    During setup, connect to Wi-Fi and sign in with the Google account. Factory Reset Protection usually requires the previous account password.

    You should see: The Pixel completes setup and can be used with a new lock screen PIN.

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Extra tips

What to look for: Whether the forgotten password is the Pixel lock screen code or the Google account password, and whether the phone still unlocks at all.

Before you change anything: Decide whether the problem is the phone lock screen or the Google account password. Confirm any important data is backed up before a factory reset. Use only the official Google account recovery pages. Never share passwords or codes with unexpected callers.

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