For security, you can set an unlock pattern for your Apex. It is strongly recommended that you sign in to your Google Account before setting an unlock pattern; this will enable you to enter your Google Account password to unlock your phone if you forget the pattern.

1. From the home screen, press the Menu Key.
2. Touch Settings > Location & security > Set unlock pattern.
3. Touch OK if you’ve signed in to your Google Account. (If you haven’t, you should stop and do that first. See Sign in to a Google Account or Create a Google Account for more information.)
4. Read the explanation about securing your phone. Touch Next to continue.
5. Watch the animation illustrating how to create a pattern. Touch Next to continue.
6. Draw an unlock pattern. Make it something you’ll be able to remember. It must connect at least four dots. If you don’t like the pattern you’ve drawn, touch Retry. When you’ve drawn a pattern you’re satisfied with, touch Continue.
7. Draw the pattern again to confirm it. Touch Confirm.

Once your unlock pattern has been set, you will need to enter the pattern any time you wish to unlock the phone. (You’ll still be able to place emergency calls without unlocking the phone.) To stop requiring the unlock pattern, touch Require pattern in the Location & security settings menu to uncheck the box. You’ll need to enter your unlock pattern to confirm the change.