When an iPhone is factory reset, it reverts back to the original default passcode that was set at the factory. This allows the iPhone to be restored to a clean, out-of-the-box state. Here are some key details about the iPhone default passcode when factory reset:
The Default iPhone Passcode is 1234
The default passcode that iPhones come with from the factory is ‘1234’. This 4-digit passcode is pre-programmed on new iPhones and activated when the device is reset to factory settings. So if you perform a factory reset on your iPhone without setting a new passcode, it will default back to ‘1234’.
This applies to all iPhone models including the latest iPhone 14 series. Regardless of whether it’s an iPhone 5, iPhone X, iPhone 12 mini or any other model, the default passcode will be 1234 after a factory reset.
The Passcode Allows Access After Factory Reset
The main purpose of the default 1234 passcode is to allow access back into the iPhone after a factory reset. When you choose to reset your iPhone, it wipes all contents and settings, including any existing passcode.
The default 1234 passcode acts as a backup method to unlock and setup the iPhone again after the reset. Without it, users would have no way to access a factory reset iPhone that has no set up passcode.
Apple Does Not Allow Changing the Default Passcode
While you can change your iPhone’s passcode to anything you want for daily use, Apple does not provide a way to alter the default factory reset passcode. It is permanently set to 1234. This is done to provide a consistent and known passcode after reset.
Trying to change the default passcode through hacking, jailbreaking or modifying system files would lead to problems when resetting the iPhone. So it’s best to leave the 1234 passcode intact for factory reset purposes.
The Passcode Works for Both Soft and Hard Resets
The 1234 default passcode will work whether you perform a soft reset or hard reset on the iPhone:
- Soft reset -Done through Settings app and preserves data
- Hard reset – Wipes phone completely and reinstalls iOS
After both soft and hard factory resets, the iPhone will prompt for the 1234 passcode first before allowing access and setting up the device again.
It Allows Access to Wiped iPhones
The default passcode also serves an important purpose if you sell or gift your used iPhone. You can wipe your iPhone to factory settings to remove all your personal data before selling it.
The new owner can then access and activate the wiped iPhone by using the default 1234 passcode. This makes it easy for them to set up the device in a secure manner.
You Should Change the Passcode After Setup
While the 1234 passcode allows access after a reset, it is not very secure for daily iPhone use. Anyone can easily guess the simple default passcode.
So after factory resetting and setting up your iPhone, you should immediately change the passcode to something more complex. Use at least 6 digits or a longer alphanumeric password for better security.
Conclusion
The default iPhone passcode when factory reset is 1234. This 4-digit passcode allows access to the iPhone after wiping it and restoring factory settings. While convenient for reset purposes, the simple 1234 passcode should be changed to something stronger for daily use after setting up the iPhone.
