In today’s digital age, our smartphones are repositories for countless memories, personal information, and important documents. However, you might find yourself in a predicament when the screen of your Samsung S21 Ultra breaks. If you need to factory reset your device—perhaps to sell it, troubleshoot issues, or clear your data—it can become quite a challenge, especially with a non-functioning display. But do not worry! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through various methods to perform a factory reset on your Samsung S21 Ultra, even if the screen is broken.
Understanding the Need to Factory Reset Your Samsung S21 Ultra
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, wipes all data and settings from your device, restoring it to its original state when first purchased. This process can be crucial for several reasons:
1. Troubleshooting Issues: If your device is malfunctioning or crashing frequently, a factory reset can eliminate software glitches.
2. Selling or Giving Away: To protect your personal information, it’s essential to erase all data before transferring ownership.
3. System Restoration: Factory resets can fix issues related to system performance, enabling your device to run smoother.
It’s critically important to remember that a factory reset will erase all data on your device, including apps, contacts, photos, and any saved files. Thus, you should always try to back up your data before proceeding with a reset. But if the screen is unresponsive, backing up your data can be quite tricky.
Diagnosing the Condition of Your Screen
Before we explore the various methods to factory reset your device, it’s paramount to assess the condition of your Samsung S21 Ultra’s screen.
Screen Inoperability
If the screen is completely black or unresponsive but you can still hear notifications or vibrations, it indicates a serious issue. In such a case, you might not be able to navigate your device.
Cracked but Functional
If the screen is cracked but still responds to touch, you may be able to perform the reset methodically.
Determining the extent of the damage will guide our approach to resetting the device. Let’s consider different methods based on your screen’s condition.
Factory Reset Methods for a Samsung S21 Ultra with a Broken Screen
There are multiple ways to factory reset your Samsung S21 Ultra, even with a faulty screen. Here are the most effective methods:
Method 1: Using Samsung Find My Mobile
Samsung provides a remote management service called Find My Mobile, which can be incredibly useful if your device is connected to the internet before the screen was damaged. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Go to the Samsung Find My Mobile website on your computer or another mobile device.
Step 2: Log in with your Samsung account credentials linked to your Samsung S21 Ultra.
Step 3: Once logged in, select your device from the menu.
Step 4: Click on the “Erase Data” option. This will trigger a factory reset on your Samsung S21 Ultra, wiping all contents.
Step 5: You’ll receive a confirmation on your screen, confirming the reset process.
This method is particularly advantageous because you don’t need to physically interact with your S21 Ultra and it remotely resets your phone.
Method 2: Using Hardware Buttons
If the screen is cracked but responsive, or if you cannot access it at all, you can attempt a factory reset using the hardware buttons. This method is particularly useful if you’re unable to reach the settings menu.
Step 1: Turn off your Samsung S21 Ultra. If the screen is unresponsive, you can force a shutdown by holding down the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously until the device turns off.
Step 2: Once your device is completely turned off, press and hold the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously.
Step 3: Release the buttons when you see the Samsung logo on the screen. This should take you into the Recovery Menu.
Step 4: Navigate the Recovery Menu using the Volume buttons. Unfortunately, with a broken screen, accessing this menu might be problematic.
Step 5: If your touch is still responsive, you can select ‘Wipe Data/Factory Reset’ using the Volume buttons and confirm with the Power button.
Step 6: Once the factory reset is complete, select ‘Reboot System Now’ to restart your device.
The success of this method may vary based on the damages to your screen.
Using Smart Switch for a Factory Reset
Samsung’s Smart Switch software is another effective method for factory resetting your device, albeit indirectly. Your phone must be recognized by the software, making it easier if you have previously installed and configured it. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Install Smart Switch on your PC or Mac and connect your Samsung S21 Ultra using a USB cable.
Step 2: Open Smart Switch and wait for your device to be recognized.
Step 3: Click on the ‘More’ option and select ‘Emergency Software Recovery and Initialization.’
Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your phone to factory settings.
This method will restore your device to its original condition and might even fix issues affecting its performance.
Precautions Before Performing a Factory Reset
Before proceeding with a factory reset on your Samsung S21 Ultra, consider the following precautions to avoid any mishaps:
1. Ensure Your Data is Backed Up: If possible, back up your essential data using Samsung Cloud or an external hard drive.
2. Double-check Your Internet Connection: In the case of using Samsung Find My Mobile, ensure that your device is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
3. Know Your Samsung Account Credentials: Remember your login details for access to Samsung services.
Conclusion: Finding A Solution for Your Broken Screen
A broken screen on your Samsung S21 Ultra might seem like an insurmountable obstacle when it comes to performing a factory reset. However, with the methods explored in this article, you can regain control of your device and ensure that your personal data is protected or your device is ready for a new owner.
Whether you opt to use Samsung Find My Mobile, the hardware button combination, or Smart Switch, following these steps will guide you through the process effectively. Always remember that even a broken screen can be overcome with the right knowledge.
As a final note, if you find the task overwhelming or if the damage is severe, it might be worthwhile to seek professional help. Repair shops or Samsung service centers could provide further assistance and protect your valuable data.
Your Samsung S21 Ultra doesn’t have to remain an obstacle in your life—take charge of the situation and regain access!
What should I do first if my Samsung S21 Ultra screen is broken and I need to factory reset it?
If your Samsung S21 Ultra has a broken screen and you need to perform a factory reset, the first step is to ensure that you have backed up all important data that you may still be able to access. Since the screen is damaged, accessing the device can be challenging, but try to connect your phone to your computer via USB. If your phone allows, you can use Samsung’s Smart Switch software to back up your data. Alternatively, consider using an OTG (On-The-Go) adapter to connect a mouse to navigate your device.
Once your data is secured, prepare to perform a factory reset. If the screen is non-responsive, you may need to boot your device into Recovery Mode. To do this, turn off your device completely and then press and hold the Volume Up button along with the Power button until you see the Samsung logo. If successful, you will enter Recovery Mode, where you can navigate through options using the volume buttons.
Can I perform a factory reset without a functioning touch screen?
Yes, you can still perform a factory reset without a functioning touch screen by using the hardware buttons on your Samsung S21 Ultra. This process involves entering Recovery Mode, which allows you to wipe your device even without touchscreen capability. It’s important to remember that this method will erase all data on your phone, so it’s essential that you have backup copies of your important information, if possible.
Once in Recovery Mode, you should navigate using the Volume Up and Volume Down buttons to highlight the “Wipe data/factory reset” option. After selecting it with the Power button, confirm your choice, and then proceed to select “Yes” to confirm the factory reset. This method restores your phone to its original factory settings, so take caution to ensure that this is what you want to do.
What options do I have if I cannot access the Recovery Mode?
If you are unable to access Recovery Mode due to severe screen damage or hardware issues, consider utilizing Samsung’s Find My Mobile feature. This service requires that you have previously registered your Samsung account and enabled remote access on your device. If your phone is connected to the internet, you can log in to the Find My Mobile service using another device and choose the option to perform a factory reset remotely.
Another option is to seek professional help from a certified technician or service center. They may have the tools needed to access Recovery Mode or alternative methods to reset the device. This step is particularly wise if you’re concerned about potential data loss or if you want to prioritize data recovery before performing any resets.
Will a factory reset help if my screen is broken but my device is still functioning?
If your Samsung S21 Ultra’s screen is broken but the device continues to function normally otherwise, performing a factory reset will indeed erase all data and settings, restoring the phone to its original state. This can be beneficial if you are experiencing software issues, glitches, or if you’re planning to sell or give away the device. It ensures that all personal data is wiped clean, minimizing the risk of data breaches.
However, be aware that any unsaved information or data that hasn’t been backed up will be lost after the factory reset. Therefore, it’s crucial to back up critical files before proceeding. If you’re unable to access the screen to initiate the backup, you may need to rely on methods such as connecting to a computer or utilizing cloud services that might have been previously set up for automatic backups.
What should I do after the factory reset is complete?
After completing the factory reset on your Samsung S21 Ultra, your device should reboot and present the initial setup screen, just as it did when you first purchased it. At this point, you can either choose to set it up as a new device or restore your data from a backup if you have one available. This initial setup process typically involves selecting your language, connecting to Wi-Fi, and signing in with your Samsung account.
If the device is still functioning but the screen remains broken, it may be wise to consider repairing the display if that is a feasible option for you. Repairing the screen can help you regain full functionality of your device, making it easier to manage apps, settings, and any new data you may need to restore or transfer back to the phone.
Will my warranty cover the damage if I need to reset my S21 Ultra?
The coverage of your warranty in cases of a broken screen typically depends on the specifics of the warranty agreement and whether the damage is considered accidental or due to manufacturing defects. Most standard warranties do not cover accidental damage such as cracked screens. If your warranty does not cover screen damage, you may need to consider paying for repairs out of pocket or checking if you have insurance that covers screen replacements.
If you’ve exhausted options and find yourself needing a factory reset due to software issues related to the broken screen, it’s advisable to consult with Samsung support or your retailer. They may offer repair options, and if you’re within the warranty period for your device, they can advise on the steps to take for possible repairs or replacements. Always keep receipts and proof of purchase handy when inquiring about warranty services.