How do I unlock an iPhone when the passcode no longer works after an update?
Answer
If the passcode is rejected after an update, wait through any security lockout timers and retry the current passcode carefully. If it still fails, Apple’s official path is to erase the iPhone with a computer or forgotten-passcode recovery, then restore from backup and set a new passcode.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing an iPhone permanently removes data that is not in a backup.
- Use only Apple’s official recovery screens or support pages; stop if a site asks you to pay to unlock the phone.
Follow these steps
Retry after any lockout timer
If the screen says try again later, wait for the timer to finish. Enter the passcode slowly, confirm Caps Lock and numbers are what you intend, and try any recent alternate passcode you may have set.
You should see: The iPhone unlocks, or the passcode is still rejected after a careful retry.
Decide whether erase is required
If the passcode keeps failing, look for Erase iPhone on the passcode screen after enough failed attempts, or plan to use a computer for recovery. Understand that erase removes local data not already backed up.
You should see: You know whether you will erase on the device or with a computer.
Erase with Apple’s forgotten-passcode method
Follow Apple’s official forgotten-passcode steps for your iPhone model: erase on the device if shown, or connect to a computer, put the iPhone into recovery mode, and restore through Finder or Apple Devices on Mac or Apple Devices/iTunes on Windows.
You should see: The iPhone erases and shows the setup screen.
Restore and set a new passcode
During setup, sign in with your Apple ID if Activation Lock appears, restore from an iCloud or computer backup if available, then create a new passcode you can remember and store securely.
You should see: The iPhone finishes setup and unlocks with the new passcode.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Messages that the passcode is incorrect, a timed lockout such as try again in minutes, or screens that offer erase iPhone after too many attempts.
Before you change anything: Confirm whether you still have a computer you have trusted with this iPhone before. Know whether an iCloud or computer backup exists. Erasing the iPhone removes data that is not in a backup. Never share your Apple ID password or one-time codes with unexpected callers.