Samsung has begun the rollout of a new Maintenance Mode for Galaxy phones running OneUI 5 or higher. The mode allows users to block access to their personal information and content, when a Samsung phone is handed over for servicing.
The South Korean hardware giant tested the mode on Galaxy S21 devices in Korea earlier this year, and then launched the feature in China in September 2022.
Samsung says the mode will eventually make its way to more devices over the coming months, and the rollout is expected to continue through 2023.
If you have a Samsung phone that meets the requirements, you can access Maintenance Mode by going to Settings, tapping on Battery and device care, and then turning on Maintenance Mode.
Once enabled, the mode will create a temporary user account that will enable engineers to test out the core functions of the device, without access to the user's personal data. When the repairs are completed, and the user gets their phone back, they can disable the mode, and all apps or user accounts created when it was enabled, will be automatically deleted.
Samsung's Galaxy S22 series of phones will be the first to receive the feature, with support for more devices coming later.
“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.”
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