How to Enable Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra/S23 Plus/S23 Developer Mode

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, S23 Plus, or base S23? Whether you're a developer, modder, or just a curious user, enabling Developer Mode and OEM Unlock is the first step toward advanced Android customization. From tweaking system animations to unlocking the bootloader for rooting, it all starts here.

About Samsung Galaxy S23 Series

The Galaxy S23 lineup is packed with flagship features — Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, stunning displays, pro-level cameras, and the latest Android OS with Samsung's One UI. But beneath all that power lies an entire world of hidden settings, just waiting to be explored once Developer Mode and OEM Unlock are activated.

Important Precautions Before You Proceed

Before jumping in, keep this in mind:

• Warranty: Unlocking the bootloader (after OEM Unlock) voids your Samsung Knox warranty.

• Security: It disables certain secure features like Samsung Pay and Secure Folder.

• Data Loss: Unlocking the bootloader will wipe your phone completely. Back up everything.

Developer Mode is safe, but bootloader unlocking changes your phone’s integrity level — be smart about it.

What is Developer Mode?

Developer Mode grants access to hidden features such as:

• USB Debugging for ADB commands

• Animation scaling to speed up your phone

• Background process limits

• Advanced debugging and network features

Perfect for developers and advanced users who want more control over their phone’s behavior.

What is OEM Unlock?

OEM Unlock is a hidden switch inside Developer Options that allows your device’s bootloader to be unlocked. You must enable this before trying to unlock the bootloader using tools like Fastboot or Odin.

Without OEM Unlock toggled on, your phone simply won’t allow bootloader unlock commands.

How to Enable Developer Mode on Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra/S23 Plus/S23

1. Open Settings on your phone.

2. Scroll down and tap on About phone.

3. Tap on Software information.

4. Find Build number and tap it 7 times quickly.

5. If prompted, enter your PIN/Password/Pattern.

You’ll see a toast message saying: “Developer mode has been enabled.”

How to Find Developer Options After Enabling

Now that it’s enabled:

1. Go back to the Settings main menu.

2. Scroll down to Developer options (usually under “System” or directly under Settings depending on your One UI version).

You're now inside the playground of tweaks.

How to Enable OEM Unlock on Samsung Galaxy S23 Series

1. In Developer Options, scroll down until you find OEM Unlocking.

2. Toggle the switch to ON.

3. Confirm the prompt that appears.

📌 Important: You must be connected to the internet and signed into a Samsung account for the OEM unlock option to show up.

Preparing for Bootloader Unlock

If you plan to unlock the bootloader next, here’s what you need:

• USB Debugging enabled (also in Developer Options)

• Samsung USB drivers installed on your PC

• Odin Flash Tool or Fastboot tools (for advanced users)

• A full backup of your data (bootloader unlock erases everything)

• Charged battery (at least 70%)

Samsung also sends a warning screen when unlocking — you’ll need to hold the Volume Up key to proceed during bootloader unlock.

Bootloader Unlocking for Samsung Devices

Samsung restricts bootloader unlocking in some regions, especially on carrier-locked models (like Verizon or AT&T in the US).

📌 If your phone doesn’t show the OEM Unlock toggle, you may have a locked model or need to:

• Stay connected to the internet for a few days

• Log in with your Samsung account

• Wait up to 7 days before the OEM Unlock option appears

What Happens After OEM Unlock?

When you unlock the bootloader:

• Your phone factory resets

• Samsung Knox is permanently tripped

• Apps like Samsung Pay, Secure Folder, and Knox-based services will no longer work

• You’ll gain access to custom ROMs, root, and system-level mods

Common Problems and Solutions

• OEM Unlock Missing?

  • Use mobile data or Wi-Fi

  • Sign into your Samsung account

  • Wait 7 days after device setup

• Developer Mode Not Appearing?

  • Try tapping Build number again

  • Restart the phone and check settings

• Can’t Proceed With Unlocking?

  • Some carrier models can’t be unlocked due to policy restrictions

Disabling Developer Mode and OEM Unlock

If you no longer need Developer Mode:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Settings (app) > Storage.

2. Tap Clear Data — Developer Options will disappear.

For OEM Unlock, simply toggle it back off in Developer Options (note: if bootloader is already unlocked, toggling OEM doesn’t relock it).

Tips for Safe Use of Developer Options

• Leave unknown settings alone if you're unsure

• Speed up UI: Set Window/Transition/Animator scale to 0.5x

• Turn off background limits only if you need more multitasking

Conclusion

Unlocking Developer Mode and OEM Unlock on your Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, S23 Plus, or S23 is easier than it sounds — and it unlocks a world of customization. Whether you're here for faster performance, debugging, or planning to flash a custom ROM, these first steps are key. Just tread carefully if you're heading down the root/custom path, and always back up before making major changes.