Samsung announces Maintenance mode for Galaxy smartphones

Samsung has started a global rollout of Maintenance Mode for Galaxy devices that allow users to protect their personal data. The privacy feature was first trialed on Galaxy S21 series in Korea in 2021 and launched in China in 2022.

Initially, Galaxy S22 series devices will get the latest update for the security feature before becoming available for other eligible devices running Android 13, One UI 5.0.

Maintenance Mode lets users keep their personal data secure while giving away their devices to someone for use, repairs, or exchanging them. The feature allows users to block access to their photos, messages, contacts, and others.

“Our whole lives are on our phones, from credit card information to family photos. With Maintenance Mode, we are giving extra reassurance that Galaxy users can keep their privacy, even if they hand their phone to someone,” said Seungwon Shin, VP and Head of Security Team at Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung Electronics. “This is just the latest example of our constant efforts to introduce new ways to make people feel safe and in control, so they can explore new mobile experiences with peace of mind, knowing we have their back.”

Also read: Samsung to Allow Customers to Self-Repair Galaxy Devices

How does Samsung Maintenance Mode work?

When activated, Samsung Maintenance mode creates a separate user account which allows users access to basic functions such as apps and calls but makes multimedia files inaccessible.

The feature also restricts the use of third-party apps. Apps, user data, and accounts created during the Maintenance Mode are deleted after the mode is deactivated.  

Users can find the Maintenance mode on Samsung’s OS skin, One UI 5.0 Android 13 platform. The feature is available through Settings » Battery and device care. After tapping the Turn on option, the device restarts in Maintenance mode. By default, it then creates a system log that helps repair staff dissect issues. There is also an option not to create the log too.

To toggle off the Maintenance mode, you need to drag down the notification panel and tap on the mode’s notification. It restarts the phone and comes back to normal operation. You need to verify your ID through fingerprint or other biometrics to exit the privacy mode.

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Galaxy S22 Series has already received the update for the feature and more devices running on One UI 5.0 will start receiving the feature in 2023. Galaxy devices eligible for Android 13 could all get the security feature in the coming months.

Have you received such an update on your Galaxy S22 smartphone yet? Do share with us if you have in the comments below.