Question

Good day

I have a Vodacom Power Tab 10.  I have inserted a SD card and forgot to format the SD card.  The tablet asked me if I want to format the SD card and I accepted.  The only problem is now it seems that my whole tablet was formatted and I have lost everything.

When I start my Tablet it is asking for Sim card - which I skip, and then it is searching for Wi-Fi.  When Wi-Fi is picked up, it askes for google account details.  I put in my google account details but then the questions starts again by requesting the google account details.  It doesn't go further than that.  Please I need help to sort this out?

Thank you

Answer 1

Hi. FRP (Factory Reset Protection) must have been activated on the Power Tab in question. This is a new Anti-Theft or theft deterrent feature found in Android Lollipop devices. If you are looping on the Google login, then the likely cause is that the Gmail credentials you are entering are either not correct or do not belong to the account that was Primary on the tablet. At this stage, only Vodacom (at one of their Vodashops) will be able to assist clearing the triggered FRP unfortunately.

Comments

I did went to our Vodashop, but they send it in and it takes about 3 weeks and then they charge you R350.  Is there really no other way?  And I know that I am putting in the correct details....

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Did Vodacom return it to you with the same issue? Are you able to log into the same Google account using the same credentials from a web browser?

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They said something about the google account has been locked, but I can go into the google account from my laptop.

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Well, clearing the FRP is normally confined to manufactures and official device distributors. Yes there may be a more serious  issue with your tab as the FRP is to be only triggered if the device is reset from the recovery menu and not form then 'Settings app' or main menu. Also, formatting the SD did not have to format user data aswell. A firmware reload (yet another task only Vodacom should be able to perform as its firmware isn't published) may be necessary therefore.

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So, what you are actually saying is that I need to hand it to Vodacom and wait my 3 weeks?  I bought the Tablet from Hi-fi Corp and is still under guarantee - is there a way that I can take it to them to sort out?

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Going via Hi-Fi Corp may be a better option since you looking at possible in-warranty failure issue though their turn around may not be any linient.

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Thank you so much - will take it to Hi-Fi Corp.

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Noted and all the best!