How do I unlock an iPhone after a software update when I forgot the Apple ID password?
Answer
Recover the Apple ID password at Apple's official iforgot.apple.com page using the Apple ID email on the phone, then return to the iPhone Activation Lock or sign-in screen and enter the new password. Do not pay third-party unlock services.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Stop if a site or popup asks you to pay to unlock an Apple ID or install unknown software.
- Factory reset will not remove Activation Lock without the correct Apple ID password.
Follow these steps
Read the Apple ID on the iPhone
On the lock or activation screen, note the Apple ID email address displayed. That is the account password you must recover.
You should see: You know which Apple ID the iPhone is asking for.
Open Apple's official forgot-password page
On another device or using Forgot password on the iPhone if offered, go to iforgot.apple.com. Enter the Apple ID email from the phone screen.
You should see: Apple shows trusted recovery options for that Apple ID.
Reset the Apple ID password
Complete Apple's identity checks with the trusted phone number, recovery key, or other official options available to you. Create a new Apple ID password and save it somewhere secure.
You should see: Apple confirms the password was changed.
Sign in on the iPhone
Return to the iPhone screen that asks for the Apple ID password. Enter the Apple ID email and the new password. Do not install unknown unlock tools.
You should see: The iPhone accepts the credentials and continues past the Activation Lock or sign-in prompt.
If recovery options are unavailable
If you cannot pass Apple's account recovery checks, start Apple's official account recovery process from iforgot and wait for Apple's timeline, or contact Apple Support with proof of purchase. Avoid third-party unlock sellers.
You should see: You either regain access through Apple or understand that the device stays locked until Apple completes recovery.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A screen that asks for the Apple ID and password used during setup, and options such as Forgot password on the phone or at iforgot.apple.com.
Before you change anything: Use only appleid.apple.com or iforgot.apple.com typed by you. Have access to the trusted phone number or recovery email on the Apple ID if possible. Know that a wrong Apple ID cannot be bypassed without the original owner's credentials. Never pay a popup or caller who claims they can unlock the iPhone for a fee.