How do I fix an iPhone that says the passcode is incorrect or shows 'iPhone Unavailable'?
Answer
This usually means either the passcode being typed does not match what the phone expects, or too many incorrect attempts have temporarily locked the device. If the phone shows 'iPhone Unavailable,' it needs to either wait out the lockout timer or be restored using a paired computer or iCloud.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing the iPhone removes everything not included in a backup; confirm a recent backup exists before proceeding.
- Repeated incorrect passcode attempts increase the lockout time significantly and can eventually require a full erase.
Follow these steps
Wait out the lockout timer
If the screen shows 'iPhone Unavailable' with a countdown, leave the device alone until the timer reaches zero rather than continuing to guess the passcode.
You should see: After the timer ends, the device allows another passcode attempt.
Try any previously used passcode
Think through recent passcodes, including one used before a change, and try each carefully to avoid extending the lockout.
You should see: The correct passcode unlocks the device normally if remembered correctly.
Erase and restore using a computer
If the passcode truly cannot be recalled, connect the iPhone to a computer with Finder or iTunes and use the restore option, which requires the Apple ID afterward to set the phone up again.
You should see: The device resets to a blank state and can be restored from the most recent backup.
Erase using Find My iPhone if no computer is available
From another device or iCloud.com, sign in with the same Apple ID, open Find My, select the iPhone, and choose Erase iPhone.
You should see: The iPhone erases remotely and becomes ready to set up again using the Apple ID and a backup.
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Extra tips
What to look for: A countdown timer on the 'iPhone Unavailable' screen showing minutes or hours remaining, or an option at the bottom of the lock screen to erase the device or sign in with an Apple ID.
Before you change anything: Confirm whether a backup exists in iCloud or on a computer before attempting any reset. Check how long the lockout timer says to wait before trying again. Confirm the Apple ID and password are known before using account-based recovery. Never share the passcode or an Apple ID verification code with anyone else.