If you have purchased a new device that seems stuck in demo mode, you may be wondering how to get it into normal operating mode. Demo mode is meant for display purposes in retail stores and disables certain features to prevent theft. Turning demo mode off will allow you full access to use your device as intended. Here are some tips on how to disable store or retail demo mode on various devices.
Check for a Demo Mode App or Setting
Many manufacturers include a dedicated app or setting to toggle demo mode on and off. Check through your app drawer or settings menu for an app called “Demo Mode”, “Retail Mode”, “Store Demo” or something similar. There may also be a toggle switch under a “System” or “Device” tab in your main settings.
Perform a Factory Reset
Performing a factory reset will wipe the device and restore original factory settings, which should disable any demo mode. Make sure to backup any data you want to keep before resetting. To perform a factory reset:
- On Android devices, go to Settings > Backup & Reset > Factory Data Reset. Tap “Reset” to confirm.
- On iOS devices, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Enter your passcode and tap “Erase” to confirm.
- On Windows devices, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC. Choose “Remove everything” and follow the prompts.
Remove and Reinsert SIM Card
If your device has a SIM card slot, removing and reinserting the SIM card might disable demo mode. Power down your device, eject the SIM tray and remove the SIM card. Wait a few seconds, then reinsert the SIM card and restart your device. This may clear out any demo mode settings.
Contact the Manufacturer
If you cannot disable demo mode through any standard methods, contact the device manufacturer directly. You can typically find support contact info on the manufacturer’s website or in your device paperwork. Have your device info ready and explain that you need help exiting retail demo mode. The manufacturer should be able to provide steps or a reset code to disable demo mode.
Common Demo Mode Behaviors
While in demo mode, your device may exhibit some of the following behaviors:
- Limited functionality – Certain apps/features disabled
- Constant repeating video/audio demos
- Pop-up ads or promotional content
- Brightly colored demo banners/text onscreen
- Stuck on demo/example content loop
- Unable to access settings or reset options
- Simulated calls or notifications
Demo mode is meant to show off key device features while limiting access to keep retail devices secure. Disabling demo mode will get your device back to normal intended use and full functionality.
Specialized Demo Reset Codes
Some manufacturers use specific keypad sequences or reset codes to disable demo mode. If you cannot find a demo mode toggle in settings, try the following reset codes for your device brand:
Samsung Mobile Demo Mode Reset Codes
- Open dialer and enter *#7292848#
- Tap Demo Mode and select Off
LG Mobile Demo Mode Reset Codes
- For devices with home buttons: Tap Home 4 times, Back 2 times, Home 4 times
- For devices without home buttons: Tap Power button 4 times, Volume Down button 2 times, Power button 4 times
Huawei Mobile Demo Mode Reset Codes
- Open dialer and enter *#3646633#
- Tap the Demo Mode option and select Off
Sony Mobile Demo Mode Reset Codes
- Open dialer and enter *#*#7378423#*#*
- Tap Service info > Demo mode and select Off
Consult your device manufacturer for the specific key sequence to exit demo mode if these common codes do not work.
Prevent Accidentally Enabling Demo Mode
Once you have disabled demo mode, you likely want to ensure it does not get enabled again accidentally. Follow these tips:
- Delete any demo mode apps/profiles loaded on your device
- Avoid tapping “Demo Mode” options if prompted during setup
- Carefully read any pop-up messages/prompts during use and do not enable demo
- Keep your device locked when not in use
- Monitor settings to ensure demo mode does not enable spontaneously
- Install security updates promptly to avoid vulnerabilities
With proper precautions, you can prevent demo mode from mistakenly getting turned on again on your device.
Factory Reset as a Last Resort
If all else fails and you absolutely cannot disable demo mode through any other means, performing a factory reset will get your device back to normal operating mode. As mentioned previously, this will erase all data on the device. Only reset as a last resort when no other options have worked.
When to Contact Manufacturer Support
In some instances, demo mode may prove very difficult to disable. If you have tried the factory reset and manual code options with no success, reaching out to the device manufacturer is your next best move. Contact them for technical support if:
- You do not see any demo mode toggles/settings on the device
- Specialized key sequences or reset codes do not work
- Factory reset has no effect on demo mode
- Demo mode enables itself repeatedly after disabling
- You observe any other unusual demo mode behavior
The vendor will have better insights into properly disabling demo mode if the standard consumer options are not working. Be prepared to provide your device information and troubleshooting steps you have already tried when contacting them.
Conclusion
Getting trapped in demo mode can be annoying, but thankfully there are a variety of solutions for exiting. Check for a dedicated demo mode app or toggle, perform a factory reset, try manual reset code input, reinsert SIM card, or contact the manufacturer for support. With persistence, you can get your device back to full working order. Avoid accidentally triggering demo mode again by deleting sketchy apps, monitoring settings changes, and keeping your device secure. With the right approach, you can break free of demo mode for good.
