To make unlocking your phone easier, multiple lock methods are available on an Android device, including fingerprint recognition, patterns and PINs.

The range of available lock methods differs according to model. You can choose your preferred lock method from those supported on your device.

Where can I change my lock method?

The location of the lock screen settings will depend on the specific device you are using. On the latest devices you can find these settings at Settings > Lock screen > Screen lock type.

On older devices you can find the lock screen settings at Settings > Lock screen and security OR Settings > Lock screen > Screen lock.

Some or all of the following lock types will be available:

None – Setting your screen lock type as none means that you only have to tap on the screen or press the side or power key to unlock your device. This is the lowest level of security available and some features will be disabled as a result.

Some apps, such as banking apps, require greater security to function and biometric information such as fingerprint and face scans will be unavailable if this unlock method is selected.

Swipe – The swipe unlock method sets your device to unlock with a swipe across the screen. This is the lowest level of security available and some features will be disabled as a result.

Some apps, such as banking apps, require greater security to function and biometric information such as fingerprint and face scans will be unavailable if this unlock method is selected.

Pattern unlock allows you to unlock your device by drawing a pattern onto the screen. The pattern is drawn by connecting a series of at least four dots on a 3X3 grid without lifting off the screen. Once a dot has been used once, it cannot be used again. 

This security type offers medium protection and can be used alongside banking apps and biometric information.

With PIN unlock you can use a series of numbers to lock your device. This lock method requires you to use between 4 and 16 digits and depending on your specific PIN offers medium to high protection. PIN unlocks can be used alongside mobile banking apps and biometric information.

Password locks use a combination of characters to provide a high security lock for your device. Passwords must be between 4 and 16 characters and must contain at least one letter. You can choose to include symbols and numbers to make your password even more secure. Password locks can be used alongside mobile banking apps and biometric information.

Fingerprint recognition uses the unique characteristics of your fingerprint to unlock your device. This method is both highly secure and highly convenient as you only need to hold your finger against your device to unlock it.

To use fingerprint recognition to unlock your device you will need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password. This is for additional security and will be asked for in specific circumstances, such as when the device is restarted.  

Face – Facial recognition uses the contours of your face to recognise you and unlock your device. Once your face has been registered, all you need to do is look at your device and it will unlock. While this unlock method is incredibly convinient, it is recommended that you use the fingerprint lock if you wish to prioritise security.

To use facial recognition to unlock your device you will need to set up a backup lock method such as a PIN, pattern or password. This is for additional security and will be asked for in specific circumstances, such as when the device is restarted.  

Iris scan captures the unique characteristics of your irises to create a lock for your device. Once your irises have been registered you will only need to look at your phone for it to recognise you and unlock. For the iris scanner to work effectively you will need to keep your device around 20-35 centimetres from your face. Iris scan is only available on the latest devices.