Why Won’t My Galaxy Watch 4/5/6/7 Leave Demo Mode? And How Can You Fix This Annoying Issue?

Stuck in Demo Mode? What’s the Fastest Way to Fix Your Galaxy Watch 4/5/6/7 and Avoid a Bad Buy?

When you bring home a Galaxy Watch and discover it only acts like it’s on display in a store, it feels pretty disappointing. Demo Mode, also called Retail Mode, helps store visitors play with the watch, but limits important features and can make your brand-new device feel broken right from the start. Many buyers report they can’t install apps, connect the watch to their phones, or charge it above 50%. Some watches even have a “serial number” ending with X, showing they were meant for showrooms, not a real owner.

Here’s how you can fix a Galaxy Watch 4, 5, 6, or 7 stuck in Demo Mode, step by step, using easy instructions. This guide explains each method so you can pick what’s best for you.

Common Demo Mode Problems

• No way to install new apps.
• Can’t change some settings or connect to your own phone.
• Charging stops at 50%.
• Watch feels like it’s locked just for the store.

3 Real Ways to Remove Demo Mode from Your Galaxy Watch

Method 1: Enter A Special Code

1. Find the red settings app on your watch.
2. Type in the code 5444.
3. Keep scrolling until you see ‘Deactivate Retail Mode’ and turn it off.

This is the quickest solution if your watch supports it. Some watches might not accept the code. If you type it and nothing happens, try the next method.

Method 2: Try the Gesture Shortcut

1. Swipe up to show “Quick Settings” tiles.
2. Tap the “Settings” icon at the top.
3. Press and hold the left side of the screen with your finger.
4. While still holding, quickly tap 6–7 times on the right side of the screen.
5. You should see a new “Settings” menu appear.
6. Tap on ‘Disconnect and Reset’.

Your watch will restart. Once it’s done, Demo Mode should be gone.

No code needed. Simple steps, no computer or extra tools. This don’t work for everyone, and it may take a couple of tries to get the timing right.

Method 3: Flash New Firmware (Advanced, but Most Reliable)

1. Download the correct software (“firmware”) for your Galaxy Watch 4/5/6/7 and save it onto your computer.
2. Download and open NetOdin on your PC.
3. Put your watch into boot mode: Hold both buttons for about 7–9 seconds, until it says “Rebooting…”, then press the Upper Button two times fast.
4. Use the top button to choose “Download (Wireless)”. Hold the button again to confirm.
5. Your watch will ask about a connection. Change from “WPS” to “AP” mode: double-click the upper button.
6. The watch now acts as a Wi-Fi “access point.” Join your computer to this network.
7. Back in NetOdin, wait for your watch’s info to appear in the top left.
8. Press the “AP” button in NetOdin, then select your downloaded firmware file.
9. Hit “Start.” The update may take up to 30 minutes.
10. Success! The watch should reboot and NetOdin will show “PASS.”

Why try this?

• Works even if all other ways fail.
• Removes Demo Mode for good.

Downside:

• Longer, more steps.
• Needs a computer and technical know-how.

Smart Tips For A Smooth Process

• Always back up your data before trying any method.
• Make sure your watch has enough battery.
• Be patient; some methods require several tries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Will this make my warranty void?

Answer: Making changes like flashing firmware may impact your warranty. Always check with the place you bought it from.

Question: What if none of these work?

nswer: Contact Samsung support or return the watch. If it’s not what you ordered, you may have the right to exchange it.

Quick Checklist: How to Know If Your Watch Is Demo Unit

• Serial Number has an X at the end (e.g., SM-R920X).
• Stuck at 50% charging.
• You see Demo Mode options in settings.

If this describes your watch, the steps above will help get it working like new.

Always check your device after purchase. Getting a store demo watch by mistake is frustrating, but these steps make fixing it easy and put you right back on track with a fully working Galaxy Watch.