Getting locked out of an iPhone can be frustrating, but there are ways to reset it and get back in. To reset a locked iPhone, you can use a Mac or PC, or even reset it directly on the device if it’s running iOS 15.2 or later. This provides flexibility whether you have access to a computer or not. The goal is to erase the iPhone so that you can set it up again and regain access.
It’s important to know which method suits your situation. For phones like the iPhone 8 or newer, you’ll need to turn off the device first. For older models, the steps are a bit different. These details matter when trying to unlock your device quickly.
Taking these steps helps keep your personal information secure by making it possible to reset the passcode and erase data if needed. Always remember your Apple ID and password, as they will be necessary to complete the process and restore any backups.
Resetting a Locked iPhone: A Step‑by‑Step Guide
If your iPhone is locked and you’ve forgotten the passcode, don’t panic. Apple provides several official and secure ways to reset a locked iPhone and regain access. This guide walks you through each method step by step and explains what to expect before you begin.
⚠️ Important: Resetting a locked iPhone erases all data on the device. You can restore your data afterward only if you have a backup (iCloud or computer).
Before You Reset: What You’ll Need
Depending on the method you choose, make sure you have:
- Your Apple ID and password
- A Wi‑Fi or cellular connection
- A Mac or Windows PC (for some methods)
- A USB cable
- Enough battery life (or keep the phone plugged in)
Method 1: Reset Locked iPhone Using iCloud (Find My)
Best for:
Users who enabled Find My iPhone and remember their Apple ID.
Steps:
- On another device, go to icloud.com/find
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Select your locked iPhone from the device list
- Click Erase iPhone
- Confirm and wait for the process to finish
- Set up the iPhone again and restore from a backup
✅ This works remotely and doesn’t require a computer.
Method 2: Reset Locked iPhone Using Recovery Mode (Computer Required)
Best for:
Users who don’t have Find My enabled or can’t access iCloud.
Steps:
- Turn off your iPhone
- Connect it to a computer using a cable
- Enter Recovery Mode:
- iPhone 8 or later:
Press and quickly release Volume Up → Volume Down → hold Side button - iPhone 7 / 7 Plus:
Hold Volume Down + Side button - iPhone 6s or earlier:
Hold Home + Side (or Top) button
- iPhone 8 or later:
- Keep holding until the recovery screen appears
- Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows)
- Select Restore when prompted
- Wait for the reset to complete
- Set up your iPhone and restore from backup
Method 3: Reset Locked iPhone Directly on the Device (iOS 15.2+)
Best for:
Newer iPhones running modern iOS versions.
Steps:
- Enter the wrong passcode multiple times
- When “iPhone Unavailable” appears, tap Erase iPhone
- Confirm the action
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Wait for the reset to complete
✅ No computer needed.
Method 4: Reset Locked iPhone Using Apple Support
Best for:
Users who are locked out of their Apple ID or facing activation issues.
What to Do:
- Visit support.apple.com
- Use the Apple Support app
- Contact an Authorized Apple Service Provider
You may be asked to provide proof of purchase.
What Happens After the Reset?
After resetting:
- All data is erased
- Activation Lock remains active
- You must sign in with the original Apple ID
- You can restore data from:
- iCloud backup
- Computer backup
Common Issues & Fixes
“Forgot Apple ID password?”
- Visit iforgot.apple.com to recover it
iPhone stuck in recovery mode?
- Retry the restore
- Use a different cable or computer
No backup available?
- You’ll need to set up the iPhone as new
How to Avoid This in the Future
- Enable iCloud backups
- Keep your Apple ID credentials secure
- Use Face ID or Touch ID
- Store your passcode in a secure password manager
Final Thoughts
Resetting a locked iPhone is straightforward if you follow Apple’s official methods. While the process erases data, it protects your privacy and ensures only the rightful owner can regain access.
If you’re unsure which method applies to your situation, start with iCloud or on‑device erase, then move to Recovery Mode if needed.
Key Takeaways
- Use a Mac, PC, or the device itself to reset a locked iPhone.
- Different iPhones need different steps to reset.
- Remember your Apple ID for restoring backups and security.
Preparing to Reset Your Locked iPhone
Before resetting your locked iPhone, it’s crucial to know the impacts of this action, confirm your Apple ID details, and save essential data.
Understanding the Consequences of a Reset
Resetting your iPhone completely wipes all data. This includes photos, apps, and settings. After the reset, the device returns to its original factory state. It’s like starting with a brand-new phone. You will lose all saved information unless it’s backed up. This reset should be the last option if you cannot unlock your iPhone.
Verifying Your Apple ID Credentials
Your Apple ID is essential for the reset process. Ensure you know your Apple ID email and password. If you forget these credentials, you won’t be able to access your data after the reset. You can verify or reset your Apple ID details on the Apple ID website. Having these credentials ready speeds up the reset and restoration process.
Backing Up Important Data and Settings
Before wiping your iPhone, back up your data. You can do this through iCloud Backup or by connecting your phone to a computer with iTunes or Finder.
- On the iPhone, go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then select Back Up Now.
- To use a computer, connect your iPhone using a USB cable. Open iTunes or Finder, select your device, and choose Back Up Now.
This step is crucial to ensure you don’t lose any important information.
