Forgetting your iPhone passcode can be frustrating and potentially worrying. Fortunately, Apple provides ways to reset your device even when it’s locked. A factory reset erases all data and settings on your iPhone, allowing you to start fresh or regain access to your device.
The process to factory reset a locked iPhone has become easier with recent iOS updates. For devices running iOS 15.2 or later, you can now reset your iPhone directly from the lock screen without needing a computer. This feature is especially helpful when you’re away from home or don’t have access to a trusted computer.
Before attempting a reset, it’s important to remember that this process will erase all data on your iPhone. If possible, try to recall your passcode or use alternative unlock methods like Face ID or Touch ID. If these options aren’t available, a factory reset may be your best solution to regain access to your device.
How to Factory Reset an iPhone When It’s Locked
If you forgot your iPhone passcode or the device is disabled, you can still factory reset it using official Apple methods. A factory reset erases all data on the iPhone and restores it to default settings.
⚠️ Important:
You’ll need the Apple ID and password linked to the device after the reset to remove Activation Lock.
Method 1: Factory Reset Using Recovery Mode (Most Common)
This is the best option if you can access a computer.
What You’ll Need
- A Mac or Windows PC
- Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes
- USB cable
Step 1: Turn Off the iPhone
- Disconnect the iPhone from the computer
- Power it off completely
Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode
Follow the steps for your iPhone model:
iPhone 8 or newer (including Face ID models)
- Quickly press Volume Up, then release
- Quickly press Volume Down, then release
- Press and hold the Side button
- Keep holding until the Recovery Mode screen appears
iPhone 7 / 7 Plus
- Press and hold Volume Down + Side button
- Release when Recovery Mode appears
iPhone 6s or earlier
- Press and hold Home + Side (or Top) button
- Release when Recovery Mode appears
Step 3: Connect to Computer
- Connect the iPhone to your computer
- Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows)
Step 4: Restore the iPhone
- A prompt will appear saying your iPhone needs to be restored
- Click Restore
- Wait for the process to complete
✅ This erases the iPhone and installs the latest iOS version
Method 2: Factory Reset Using iCloud (Find My iPhone)
Use this method if Find My iPhone was enabled.
What You’ll Need
- Apple ID and password
- Internet access
Steps
- Go to https://www.icloud.com
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Click Find Devices
- Select your locked iPhone
- Click Erase iPhone
- Confirm the action
✅ The iPhone will reset remotely
⚠️ Still requires Apple ID after reset
Method 3: Factory Reset Using “Erase iPhone” (iOS 15.2+)
If your iPhone shows “iPhone Unavailable” or “Security Lockout”:
- Tap Erase iPhone on the lock screen
- Confirm erase
- Enter your Apple ID password
✅ No computer required
⚠️ Requires internet and Apple ID credentials
After the Reset: Activation Lock
Once reset, the iPhone will ask for:
- The Apple ID and password previously used on the device
If you don’t have this information:
- The device cannot be used
- Apple Support may require proof of purchase
Troubleshooting Tips
iPhone not detected by computer
- Try a different USB cable or port
- Update Finder or iTunes
Restore fails
- Restart computer and iPhone
- Try Recovery Mode again
Forgot Apple ID
What a Factory Reset Does
✅ Removes passcode
✅ Deletes all data and settings
✅ Restores iOS to default
❌ Does NOT remove Activation Lock
Summary
| Method | Requires Computer | Requires Apple ID |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery Mode | ✅ | ✅ |
| iCloud (Find My) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Erase iPhone on Lock Screen | ❌ | ✅ |
Final Note
Factory resetting a locked iPhone is safe and official, but Apple ID verification is always required afterward for security reasons.
Key Takeaways
- Factory resetting erases all data and settings on your iPhone
- iOS 15.2 and later allow resetting directly from the lock screen
- Back up your data regularly to avoid losing important information
Understanding Factory Resets
Factory resets erase all data on an iPhone and restore it to its original settings. This process is crucial for troubleshooting or preparing a device for a new user.
What is a Factory Reset?
A factory reset erases all content and settings from an iPhone. It removes personal data, apps, and customizations. The device returns to its original state, as if it just came from the factory.
Factory resets are useful for:
- Fixing software issues
- Removing personal data before selling
- Starting fresh after major iOS updates
The process clears:
- Contacts
- Photos and videos
- Apps and app data
- Passwords and accounts
- System settings
When to Perform a Factory Reset
Users should consider a factory reset in several situations:
- Persistent software problems
- Selling or giving away the iPhone
- Forgotten passcode
- Slow performance after long-term use
A reset can resolve issues like:
- Frequent app crashes
- Battery drain
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity problems
- Unresponsive touchscreen
Before resetting, back up important data. Use iCloud or a computer to save contacts, photos, and files. This ensures data recovery after the reset.
Preparatory Steps Before Factory Reset
Before initiating a factory reset on a locked iPhone, two crucial steps require attention. These steps help safeguard important data and ensure a smooth reset process.
Backup Your Data
Backing up data is essential before resetting an iPhone. Users can create a backup using iCloud or iTunes. iCloud backups are automatic when enabled and connected to Wi-Fi. To manually backup to iCloud:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on [your name]
- Select iCloud
- Choose iCloud Backup
- Tap “Back Up Now”
For iTunes backups on a computer:
- Connect iPhone to computer
- Open iTunes
- Select the device
- Click “Back Up Now”
These backups preserve contacts, photos, app data, and settings.
Check Apple ID and Password
Verifying Apple ID and password is crucial. Without this information, accessing the device after reset may be impossible. To check Apple ID:
- Go to Settings
- Tap on [your name] at the top
- Apple ID is displayed
If the password is forgotten:
- Visit appleid.apple.com
- Click “Forgot Apple ID or password”
- Follow prompts to reset
Two-factor authentication adds security. Users should ensure they have access to trusted devices or phone numbers for verification codes.
Factory Resetting Your iPhone
Factory resetting an iPhone removes all data and settings, returning it to its original state. This process can be done through various methods, depending on your access to the device and its current state.
Using iCloud
iCloud provides a remote way to erase your iPhone. Sign in to iCloud.com on a computer or another device. Click “Find iPhone” and select your device. Choose “Erase iPhone” and confirm your decision. This method works even if your iPhone is locked, as long as it’s connected to the internet.
The process takes several minutes to complete. Once finished, your iPhone will restart and display the setup screen. All personal data, including apps, photos, and settings, will be removed.
Using iTunes
iTunes offers another option for factory resetting your iPhone. Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed. Open iTunes and select your device. Click “Restore iPhone” in the Summary tab. Confirm your choice when prompted.
iTunes will download the latest iOS software and install it on your iPhone. This process can take up to an hour. Your iPhone will restart once complete, appearing as a new device ready for setup.
Using Recovery Mode
Recovery Mode is useful when your iPhone is disabled or unresponsive. Start by connecting your iPhone to a computer. For iPhone 8 or later, quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button. For iPhone 7, hold the Volume Down and Side buttons. For iPhone 6s or earlier, hold the Home and Top (or Side) buttons.
Keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen. On your computer, select “Restore” when prompted by iTunes or Finder. This will erase all data and install the latest iOS version. Your iPhone will restart as a new device once the process is complete.
After the Reset
Resetting an iPhone erases all data and settings. The device returns to its factory state, ready for setup.
Setting Up the iPhone as New
The iPhone displays the “Hello” screen after the reset. Users swipe up to begin setup. They select their language and region. The device prompts to connect to a Wi-Fi network or cellular data.
Users can enable or disable Location Services. They set up Face ID or Touch ID for security. The iPhone asks to create a passcode. Apple offers the option to transfer data from another device or set up as new.
Setting up as new requires signing in with an Apple ID. Users can create a new ID if needed. The iPhone downloads necessary updates. It asks about app analytics and personalized ads. Users choose to use or skip Siri setup.
Restoring Your Backup
Users can restore their data from an iCloud or computer backup. They sign in to their Apple ID and select the most recent backup. The restore process begins automatically.
The iPhone downloads apps and data from the backup. This may take time depending on the backup size and internet speed. Users can continue setup while restoration happens in the background.
After restoration, the iPhone prompts to enter passwords for email accounts and apps. Some apps may need to be redownloaded manually. Users should check their photos, contacts, and messages to ensure all data transferred correctly.
If issues occur during restoration, users can cancel and try again or set up as new and manually transfer data later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Factory resetting a locked iPhone can be challenging, but several methods exist. These approaches vary based on available tools and specific circumstances.
How can a factory reset be performed on an iPhone that is locked without using a computer?
A locked iPhone can be reset without a computer using iCloud. This method requires the Apple ID and password associated with the device. Users can log into iCloud.com, select “Find iPhone,” choose the locked device, and select “Erase iPhone.”
This process wipes all data and settings from the device remotely. It’s crucial to have a recent backup to restore data after the reset.
What are the steps to factory reset a locked iPhone without the Apple ID password?
Resetting a locked iPhone without the Apple ID password is challenging. The device’s security features prevent unauthorized access. Users can try contacting Apple Support for assistance.
They may request proof of ownership. This could include the original purchase receipt or other documentation. Apple may then help remove the activation lock.
How can one unlock an iPhone passcode without the help of a computer?
Unlocking an iPhone passcode without a computer is not possible. Apple’s security measures prevent passcode bypassing without proper authorization. Users who forget their passcode must erase and restore their device.
This process requires a computer with iTunes or Finder. It will erase all data on the iPhone. A recent backup is essential for data recovery after the reset.
Is it possible to factory reset a locked iPhone using the hardware buttons?
Hardware buttons can initiate a factory reset on a locked iPhone. This method uses recovery mode. Users must connect the iPhone to a computer with iTunes or Finder open.
The process involves pressing specific button combinations. These vary by iPhone model. Once in recovery mode, the computer prompts to restore or update the device.
What is the procedure to factory reset a locked iPhone through iTunes?
iTunes can factory reset a locked iPhone. First, connect the iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed. Put the iPhone in recovery mode using the appropriate button combination.
iTunes will detect the iPhone in recovery mode. It will offer options to update or restore the device. Choosing “Restore” will erase all data and install the latest iOS version.
Can a factory reset be done on an iPhone that is locked to its owner?
A factory reset on an iPhone locked to its owner is possible. It requires the Apple ID and password associated with the device. Without these credentials, the reset process becomes more complex.
Users may need to prove ownership to Apple. This could involve providing purchase documentation. Apple can then assist in removing the activation lock.
