Reviewed, sourced guidance
Prepare phone and tablet data before repair
Direct answer
Back up important data before service where possible. Follow the exact manufacturer’s instructions for the model and route. Do not give an account password or device passcode to a repairer; ask the provider how any required testing will be done while you remain present.
Preparation depends on the brand, model and repair route. Use the manufacturer’s current instructions for your device.
Key takeaways
- Check the maker’s current steps for the exact model.
- Back up important information where possible.
- Do not share account passwords or device passcodes.
- Ask the provider how testing works without disclosing credentials.
iPhone and iPad
Apple says to back up before service and not to share an Apple Account password, device passcode or account security details.
Its instructions differ between bringing a device in and sending it away. Read Apple’s current preparation page before taking action.
Sources for this section: Apple Support UK, preparing iPhone or iPad for service (observed 2026-09-25)
Samsung Galaxy devices
Samsung UK asks customers to back up data, remove Samsung and Google accounts, and remove unrelated accessories before its repair service.
Follow Samsung’s current steps only when they apply to your exact model and booked service.
Sources for this section: Samsung UK, mobile-device repair preparation (updated 31 December 2024; observed 2026-09-27)
Google Pixel devices
Google Repair Mode is limited to eligible Pixel models and software versions. Google recommends backing up before every repair, even when using Repair Mode.
Google says repair partners decide whether a data reset is required after receiving and assessing the device. Check the current Pixel instructions for your model.
Sources for this section: Google Pixel Help, Repair Mode and service preparation (observed 2026-09-25)
If the screen cannot be operated
Tell the repairer before booking that the screen cannot be operated, and describe what the device still shows or does.
Ask what data access, testing, repair-mode setup or reset the chosen route requires before you hand the device over.
Treat backup status as unknown unless you can confirm a recent backup yourself. Do not assume that a repair or reset preserves your data.
Do not disclose an account password or device passcode. Ask the repairer how any testing can be done while you remain present.
Sources for this section: Apple Support UK, preparing iPhone or iPad for service (observed 2026-09-25)Samsung UK, mobile-device repair preparation (updated 31 December 2024; observed 2026-09-27)Google Pixel Help, Repair Mode and service preparation (observed 2026-09-25)
Next steps
- Use the official manufacturer page linked above.
- Ask the provider about device access and testing before handing it over.