What should I do when an iPhone is unavailable after too many passcode attempts?
Answer
When iPhone Unavailable appears with a timer, wait out the lockout—there is no safe shortcut. If the passcode is still unknown afterward, erase the iPhone with a computer or iCloud and restore from backup, using the Apple ID password for Activation Lock.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing an iPhone deletes data that was not previously backed up.
- Anyone claiming they can unlock a passcode lockout without erase is offering unsupported or unsafe help.
Follow these steps
Wait for the lockout timer
Leave the iPhone alone until the Unavailable timer reaches zero. Do not keep guessing passcodes, which can extend the lockout.
You should see: The passcode screen accepts another attempt, or Security Lockout offers Erase iPhone.
Try erase options on the device if shown
If Security Lockout shows Erase iPhone, choose it only if you know the Apple ID password and have a backup path.
You should see: The iPhone begins erasing toward the setup screen.
Erase with a computer if needed
Connect to a computer, enter recovery mode, and restore the iPhone with Finder or iTunes/Apple Devices following Apple’s recovery steps.
You should see: The phone is erased and reinstalls iOS.
Sign in past Activation Lock and restore
At setup, enter the Apple ID password for Activation Lock, then restore from an iCloud or computer backup if one exists.
You should see: The iPhone is usable again with a new passcode.
Not sure this is the right page? Check here
0 of 5 checked
Extra tips
What to look for: iPhone Unavailable try again in X hours, Security Lockout screens, and Activation Lock after erase.
Before you change anything: Leave the iPhone powered on so the timer can finish. Confirm you know the Apple ID password before erasing. Backups made before the lockout are the only way to keep data. Never share Apple ID codes with unexpected callers.
Need a little more help?
Tell us what’s happening. Your saved expert chat will open beside this article.
Free to use. Don’t include passwords or personal details.