If your iPhone is disabled, meaning it is locked and requires a passcode you don’t know, there are a few different options for resetting it. Resetting a disabled iPhone will allow you to regain access to the device, though all data on the device will be erased in the process.
Try Entering Passcodes
Before attempting to reset your disabled iPhone, first try entering various passcodes to see if you can unlock it. Think of any passcodes you may have used in the past, like an old cell phone pin or numeric passwords for other accounts. If you think the iPhone may be locked with a fingerprint or face ID, try those as well. Oftentimes passcodes are simpler than we remember them being, so going through different permutations of numbers that are important to you can eventually unlock the iPhone.
Connect to iTunes
If you have no luck guessing the passcode, the next step is to connect the iPhone to a computer running iTunes. Connect your disabled iPhone to a computer it has previously been synced with, using the charging cable that came with your device. Open iTunes on the computer, select your iPhone, and you should be presented with some options for resetting the device.
You can choose to update or restore the iPhone software, which will reset the device and install the latest iOS version. Updating won’t erase any data, while restoring will completely wipe the iPhone back to factory settings. Both options will reset the device and remove the unknown passcode lock.
Things to Know
- Connecting to iTunes will reset the disabled iPhone’s passcode lock
- Updating the software won’t erase data, restoring will wipe the device
- The iPhone must have previously been synced to the computer running iTunes
Reset via iCloud
If you don’t have access to a computer the iPhone has synced with, you can reset a disabled iPhone remotely using iCloud. This also has the option of not erasing data, depending on the reset option you choose.
On another iOS device or computer, log into iCloud using the Apple ID associated with the disabled iPhone. Go to the Find My app or iCloud.com. Here you can select your disabled iPhone and pick between “Erase iPhone” to reset and wipe it, or “Remove Activation Lock” to reset it without data loss.
Things to Know
- You can reset a disabled iPhone remotely via iCloud
- “Erase iPhone” will reset and wipe data, “Remove Activation Lock” won’t
- Requires the iCloud credentials associated with the disabled iPhone
Use Recovery Mode
Recovery Mode is an iOS troubleshooting option that can be used to reset a disabled iPhone. To enter Recovery Mode:
- Connect the device to a computer via USB cable
- Quickly press and release the Volume Up button
- Quickly press and release the Volume Down button
- Then press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen
In Recovery Mode, you can use iTunes on your connected computer to restore the iPhone. This will reset the device and remove the passcode lock.
Things to Know
- Recovery Mode resets device and removes passcode
- Requires connecting iPhone to a computer via USB
- Need to quickly press volume up, volume down, then hold side button
Reset at an Apple Store
Taking your disabled iPhone to an Apple Store is another passcode reset option. There, an Apple technician can connect your device to their tools and systems to perform a reset. This will wipe the iPhone back to factory default settings.
The technician will need to confirm you are the owner, either by verifying your identity or by proof of purchase. There may be a fee involved as well.
Things to Know
- Apple Store technicians can reset a disabled iPhone
- Will need to prove you are the owner
- Resets device to factory settings, erasing data
- There may be a fee
Use Third-Party Unlocking Tools
There are many third-party companies that offer iPhone unlocking tools and services. Examples include:
- iMyFone LockWiper
- Tenorshare 4uKey
- dr.fone – Screen Unlock
These tools can reset iPhone passcodes by bypassing or hacking the lock screen. This allows access without wiping data. However, using third-party tools carries some risk of further locking the device, and legal issues in some areas.
Things to Know
- Third-party tools can unlock iPhone without erasing data
- Carries risks of causing other issues or legal problems
- Examples include iMyFone LockWiper, Tenorshare 4uKey, dr.fone
Preventing a Disabled iPhone
While the methods above allow you to reset a disabled iPhone, the best solution is avoiding getting locked out in the first place. Follow these tips:
- Always remember your passcode
- Write down passcodes to store securely
- Enable Touch ID or Face ID as a backup
- Store passwords in a password manager app
- Create an Apple ID to enable iCloud reset options
- Back up data regularly so resets aren’t punitive
Preventative Tips
Here are some key tips to avoid iPhone disabled scenarios:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Remember passcodes | Don’t use complex codes you may forget |
| Write down passcodes | Store securely in case you forget |
| Use Touch/Face ID | Set up alternate unlock methods |
Conclusion
Resetting a disabled iPhone is possible through various methods, but can result in data loss. The best solution is preventing the disabled state by remembering codes, using secondary unlock methods, and enabling remote reset options. With proper precautions, you can avoid the hassle and stress of dealing with an iPhone locked by an unknown passcode.
