This guide walks you through how to get a smart watch out of company mode, a restricted setting used by employers to manage corporate-owned devices. Whether you’ve left a job, inherited a used watch, or accidentally enabled it, we’ll show you safe, effective methods to regain full access.
Key Takeaways
- Understand what company mode is: It’s a security feature that locks a smart watch to an organization’s management system, limiting personal use.
- Check device ownership first: Only remove company mode if you legally own the device or have employer permission.
- Apple Watch requires Apple Business Manager removal: You’ll need the original organization’s help or proof of purchase to unlock it.
- Samsung and Wear OS watches may allow factory resets: Some models let you wipe data and exit company mode via recovery settings.
- Contact IT support when possible: The safest way to disable company mode is through your former employer’s IT department.
- Beware of activation locks: Even after resetting, some watches remain tied to an enterprise account until officially released.
- Use official tools over third-party hacks: Unauthorized methods can void warranties or damage your device.
Introduction: What Is Company Mode and Why Does It Matter?
If you’ve ever tried to set up a used smart watch only to be greeted with messages like “This device is managed by your organization” or “Activation Locked,” you’ve encountered company mode. Also known as supervised mode (Apple) or Knox enrollment (Samsung), this feature allows businesses to remotely manage, monitor, and secure company-owned devices. While great for corporate security, it becomes a major hurdle when employees leave a job—or when someone buys a secondhand watch without realizing it’s still tied to an employer.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to get a smart watch out of company mode safely and legally. We’ll cover step-by-step solutions for the most popular platforms—Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, and Wear OS devices—while emphasizing ethical practices and data privacy. Whether you’re a former employee, a tech-savvy buyer, or just curious, this guide will help you regain control of your wearable without breaking the rules—or your device.
Understanding Company Mode: How It Works Across Platforms
Visual guide about How to Get a Smart Watch Out of Company Mode
Image source: p.globalsources.com
Before diving into removal steps, it’s important to understand how company mode functions on different smart watch ecosystems. Each manufacturer implements enterprise management differently, which affects your options for disabling it.
Apple Watch: Supervised Mode and Activation Lock
Apple Watches enrolled in Apple Business Manager (ABM) or Apple School Manager (ASM) enter supervised mode. This ties the watch to an organization’s MDM (Mobile Device Management) server. Even after a factory reset, the watch will prompt for the original organization’s credentials during setup—a security measure called Activation Lock. Without the admin’s approval, the watch remains unusable for personal purposes.
Samsung Galaxy Watch: Knox Enrollment
Samsung uses its Knox platform to manage enterprise devices. When a Galaxy Watch is enrolled, it’s locked to the company’s Knox account. Unlike iPhones, some Galaxy Watches allow a factory reset that *may* bypass Knox—but only if the device isn’t actively monitored or if the organization hasn’t enabled persistent enrollment.
Wear OS Watches: Google Enterprise Enrollment
Wear OS devices (like those from Fossil, Mobvoi, or older LG models) can be enrolled in Google’s Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM). Similar to Apple and Samsung, these watches require admin approval to remove corporate policies. However, some older Wear OS models allow a hard reset that clears enrollment—especially if the device hasn’t been synced recently.
Understanding these differences is crucial. Rushing into a reset without knowing your watch’s enrollment status could waste time—or worse, trigger remote locking by the IT department.
Step 1: Confirm Device Ownership and Legal Rights
Before attempting any technical fixes, ask yourself: Do I have the right to remove company mode? This isn’t just about ethics—it’s about legality.
Check Your Employment Status
If you’re a current or former employee, review your company’s IT policy. Many organizations allow departing staff to keep their devices—but only after formal deprovisioning. Attempting to bypass company mode without permission could violate terms of service or even local laws.
Verify Purchase History for Used Devices
Bought a watch online? Check the listing details. Reputable sellers should disclose if a device is company-owned. If you unknowingly purchased a managed watch, contact the seller immediately. In some regions (like the EU or U.S.), consumer protection laws may entitle you to a refund.
Gather Proof of Ownership
Keep receipts, order confirmations, or transfer agreements. This documentation may be required if you need to contact the original organization or file a support request with the manufacturer.
Pro Tip: Never attempt to remove company mode from a device you don’t legally own. It’s not only unethical—it could be considered tampering with corporate property.
Step 2: Contact Your Former Employer’s IT Department
The safest and most reliable way to disable company mode is through official channels. Here’s how to approach it professionally.
Draft a Polite Request Email
Subject: Request to Remove Company Mode from [Device Model]
Body:
> Hi [IT Manager Name],
>
> I hope you’re doing well. I recently left [Company Name] and would like to request assistance removing company mode from my [Apple Watch Series X / Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 / etc.]. I’d like to use it personally and ensure all corporate data is securely wiped.
>
> Please let me know what steps I need to take or if you require any documentation from my side.
>
> Thank you for your help!
> Best regards,
> [Your Name]
Provide Necessary Information
Be ready to share:
– Your full name and employee ID (if applicable)
– Device serial number (found in Settings > General > About on Apple Watch, or Settings > About on Samsung/Wear OS)
– Proof of departure (e.g., resignation letter or exit confirmation)
Follow Up Respectfully
IT departments are often busy. If you don’t hear back within 5–7 business days, send a gentle follow-up. Avoid demanding language—cooperation is key.
Success Story: Sarah, a marketing manager in Toronto, regained access to her Apple Watch Series 7 after her former employer remotely removed it from ABM within 48 hours of her request.
Step 3: Remove Company Mode from Apple Watch
Apple Watches are the trickiest to unlock due to tight integration with ABM/ASM. Here’s what you can do.
Option A: Official Removal via Apple Business Manager
This is the only guaranteed method. The organization must:
1. Log in to their ABM/ASM portal.
2. Locate your device in the device list.
3. Click “Remove from ABM” or “Release Device.”
Once done, your watch will no longer prompt for admin credentials during setup.
Option B: Use Proof of Purchase with Apple Support
If the organization is unresponsive, contact Apple Support:
1. Call or chat with Apple at [support.apple.com](https://support.apple.com).
2. Explain your situation and provide:
– Original purchase receipt
– Proof of employment termination
– Device serial number
3. Apple may escalate your case to their Enterprise team for verification.
Note: Apple rarely removes Activation Lock without employer cooperation. Be patient and persistent.
Option C: Factory Reset (Not Recommended Alone)
While you can reset an Apple Watch via Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings, this will not remove company mode. The watch will still require the original organization’s credentials on reboot.
Warning: Repeated failed activation attempts may trigger remote locking or reporting to the IT admin.
Step 4: Remove Company Mode from Samsung Galaxy Watch
Samsung offers slightly more flexibility—but success depends on the device model and enrollment type.
Check Enrollment Status
Go to:
– Settings > About > Status > Knox Warranty Void
– If it says “0x0” (intact), the watch may allow a clean reset.
– If it says “0x1” (tripped), the device is permanently enrolled and may resist removal.
Perform a Factory Reset
1. Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your paired phone.
2. Tap the watch icon > Settings > Reset Watch.
3. Confirm and wait for the process to complete.
Alternative: Hard Reset via Recovery Mode
If the app method fails:
1. Power off the watch.
2. Press and hold the Home + Back buttons simultaneously for 10+ seconds.
3. When the Samsung logo appears, release and wait for the recovery menu.
4. Use volume keys to select “Wipe data/factory reset” and confirm with the Home button.
Post-Reset Setup
After resetting, try setting up the watch as new. If it still asks for corporate credentials, the device is likely still enrolled in Knox. In this case, contact Samsung Support with your proof of ownership.
Pro Tip: Some older Galaxy Watches (e.g., Gear S3) are easier to unlock than newer models (Watch 4/5/6). Research your specific model online.
Step 5: Remove Company Mode from Wear OS Watches
Wear OS devices vary widely, but many allow a clean exit from enterprise mode—especially if they’re not actively managed.
Check Google Account Linkage
During setup, if you see “This device is managed by [Company],” it’s enrolled in Google EMM.
Perform a Factory Reset
1. On the watch: Settings > System > Disconnect & reset.
2. Confirm and wait for the reset.
3. On reboot, skip signing into any Google account initially.
Bypass Initial Setup (If Possible)
Some Wear OS watches let you tap “Skip” multiple times during setup to avoid account linkage. This won’t remove company mode permanently but may allow limited use.
Use ADB Commands (Advanced Users Only)
For tech-savvy users:
1. Enable Developer Options (tap Build Number 7 times in Settings > System > About).
2. Enable USB Debugging.
3. Connect to a computer and use ADB commands to remove enterprise policies:
“`
adb shell pm uninstall –user 0 com.google.android.apps.work.clouddpc
“`
Warning: This method can brick your device if done incorrectly. Only attempt if you’re comfortable with command-line tools.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, you might hit roadblocks. Here’s how to handle them.
“Activation Locked” Persists After Reset
This means the device is still tied to an enterprise account. Your only options are:
– Contact the organization
– Provide proof of ownership to the manufacturer
– Accept that the watch may be unusable
Watch Won’t Boot Past Logo
A failed reset can cause boot loops. Try:
– Charging the watch for 30+ minutes
– Performing a hard reset (see device-specific steps above)
– Using manufacturer recovery tools (e.g., Samsung Smart Switch)
No Response from Former Employer
If emails go unanswered:
– Escalate to HR or your former manager
– Send a formal letter via certified mail
– Consult a legal advisor if the device was part of your compensation package
Third-Party “Unlock Services” Are Scams
Avoid websites promising instant unlocks for $20–$50. These often:
– Steal your payment info
– Install malware
– Use stolen credentials that get flagged later
Stick to official channels.
Prevention Tips for Future Buyers
Don’t get stuck in company mode again. Follow these best practices:
- Ask sellers directly: “Is this watch free of corporate management?”
- Check before buying: Request the serial number and verify enrollment status online (e.g., Apple’s Check Coverage page).
- Buy from trusted sources: Apple Refurbished, Samsung Certified Re-Newed, or authorized retailers reduce risk.
- Test immediately: Set up the watch right after purchase to catch issues early.
Conclusion: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Getting a smart watch out of company mode isn’t always quick or easy—but it’s usually possible with the right approach. Start by confirming your legal right to the device, then pursue official removal through your former employer or manufacturer support. While factory resets work on some platforms, Apple Watches nearly always require admin intervention.
Remember: how to get a smart watch out of company mode isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a process that respects corporate security and personal rights. By following this guide, you’ll avoid scams, protect your data, and hopefully enjoy your wearable without restrictions.
If all else fails, consider repurposing the watch as a dedicated fitness tracker (if sensors still work) or recycling it responsibly. And next time? Always verify device status before buying.