Samsung has removed or hidden the Lockdown Mode toggle in the One UI 9 Beta, causing frustration among users, including those with the Galaxy S26 series. Previously, this setting could be found under Settings > Lock screen > Secure lock settings > Show Lockdown option, but many beta users report it is now missing. Some users have noted that the power menu behaves similarly to Lockdown Mode, requiring a PIN/password to power off or restart, which is inconvenient.
Lockdown Mode, an optional feature that disables biometrics until the next unlock, has been a part of Android/Samsung for years. Its removal in the One UI 9 Beta may be linked to broader changes within the UI. A YouTube reviewer confirmed the feature's absence in the beta, suggesting it might be reinstated later.
Samsung often adjusts features during beta testing, and it remains possible that Lockdown Mode could reappear in future updates or be integrated differently with enhanced security features. Users are advised to check their settings for any potential relocation of the option, restart their devices, or look for newer beta updates. Reporting issues through the Samsung Members app can also help prioritize fixes. For those needing the Lockdown functionality immediately, staying on One UI 8.5 is suggested until the issue is resolved.
One UI 9 (based on Android 17) is currently in beta for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and it is not a stable release yet, meaning it may not appear in regular software updates. To get the beta, you need to:
1. Update the Samsung Members app from the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store. 2. Sign in to the app with your Samsung account. 3. Look for the One UI 9 Beta banner on the home screen or notices section, tap it, and follow the prompts to enroll. 4. Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for the beta update (approximately 3.6GB).
Important notes include:
- Availability: The beta is rolling out in select countries first (US, UK, Germany, South Korea, and soon India/Poland). Variants may differ slightly based on carrier or whether they are unlocked. - Beta risks: Expect potential bugs, battery drain, and instability. It's advised not to install it on your primary device. Back up your data if you decide to unenroll later. - Requirements: Ensure you have good Wi-Fi, at least 50% battery, and sufficient storage space.
If you donโt see the beta banner, it may be due to regional or carrier restrictions, or limited spots. The stable version is expected to be released later, likely in 2026. For updates, search "One UI 9 beta" in Samsung Members or check sites like SamMobile.
Yes, Samsung has temporarily removed or hidden the Lockdown Mode toggle in the current One UI 9 Beta. [1]
Many users running the One UI 9 Beta on the Galaxy S26 Ultra have reported that the "Show Lockdown option" has vanished from its usual spot under Settings > Lock screen and AOD > Secure lock settings. [1, 2]
What is Happening in the Beta
Known Behavior/Bug: According to community reports on the Samsung Community and Reddit, the toggle itself is missing, but the core functionality seems to be forced or bugged.Power Menu Glitch: Several beta testers have noted that simply pulling up the power menu now acts like an unintended "instant lockdown". If you open the power menu and then change your mind, the phone forces you to use your PIN/Password to unlock it, automatically bypassing biometrics. It also forces a password check before letting you power off or restart. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
How to Proceed
Report the Bug: Since this is a beta, Samsung heavily relies on user feedback. Open the Samsung Members app, go to Support > Send feedback > Error reports, and mention the missing Lockdown toggle.Wait for a Future Beta Patch: Samsung frequently adds, removes, or re-allocates security features during testing. The feature will likely be reinstated or moved to a different privacy/security sub-menu in a later beta release.Rollback if Vital: If you rely heavily on manual Lockdown Mode for your daily security routine, your only immediate option is to roll back to One UI 8.5 using Smart Switch until the final, stable version of One UI 9 launches. [1]
Would you like instructions on how to submit an error report through Samsung Members, or do you need help rolling your S26U back to One UI 8.5?
