For some time now, Android phones have offered a very useful feature called Repair Mode, which allows you to service your device without the risk of someone accessing your personal data. The feature is available on phones running Android 14 or later, and is supported by devices such as Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models.
When Repair Mode is activated, the phone creates a temporary and isolated user profile on a separate memory partition. In this mode, technicians can use the phone and test its functions, but they do not have access to your applications, photos, messages or other personal data.
Android Repair Mode protects private data during service
In practice, this means that the device can work normally during diagnosis and repair, while all private data is locked and protected. This eliminates the need to completely restore the phone to factory settings before going to the service center, which was previously the standard way to protect data.
To use the Repair Mode function, the phone must have at least 2 GB of free space in the internal memory. It is also recommended that the user remove the SIM card from the device before the service in order to prevent possible misuse of the mobile network.
Repair Mode is most often used when the phone is sent for service, whether the device is delivered in person or sent by mail. It can also be used when the phone needs to be lent to another person for a long period of time, because without a PIN or password it is not possible to return the device to normal operating mode.
Activating the Repair Mode function depends on the device manufacturer.
On Pixel phones, the option is located in the Settings > System > Repair Modeafter which it is necessary to choose Enter repair mode and enter a PIN or password.
On Samsung phones the function is called Maintenance Mode and is located in Settings > Battery and device care > Maintenance Mode.
When the device is returned from service, Repair Mode is simply turned off via the notification in Notification Shade to the panel by selecting the Exit option, after which it is necessary to enter the PIN or password again.
Thanks to this function, users can hand their phone in for service without worry, knowing that their personal data remains completely protected, writes ZDNET.