Formatting a locked iPhone, often referred to as a factory reset, is a common solution when you've forgotten your passcode, are preparing to sell the device, or need to troubleshoot persistent software issues. While a locked iPhone prevents direct access to settings, you can still perform a reset using Recovery Mode and a computer.
Understanding the Process
When your iPhone is locked, you can't erase its content directly from the device. Instead, you'll need to put it into Recovery Mode, which allows a computer running Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (for macOS Mojave and earlier, or Windows) to detect and restore the device. This process will erase all data and settings, installing a fresh copy of the latest iOS.
Preparing for the Format
Before you begin, ensure you have:
- A computer (Mac or PC) with the latest version of macOS or iTunes installed.
- A reliable USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer.
- An internet connection on your computer to download the iOS software.
Important Note: This process will erase all data on your iPhone. If you don't have a recent backup, your data will be lost. For a locked iPhone, backing up is typically not possible without the passcode.
Steps to Format Your Locked iPhone
The method involves putting your iPhone into Recovery Mode and then using your computer to restore it.
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Turn off your phone and plug it into a computer.
- First, power off your iPhone completely.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
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Enter Recovery Mode: The exact button combination varies slightly by iPhone model. The most common method for modern iPhones (iPhone 8 or later, including all Face ID models) is:
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Then, press and hold the Side button.
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Keep holding down the button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- Do not release the Side button when you see the Apple logo. Continue holding it until the "connect to computer" icon (a computer icon with a cable) appears on your iPhone's screen.
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Open either Finder® or iTunes® on your computer.
- On a Mac running macOS Catalina (10.15) or later, open Finder.
- On a Mac running macOS Mojave (10.14) or earlier, or on a Windows PC, open iTunes.
Restoring Your iPhone
Once your iPhone is in Recovery Mode and connected, your computer will detect it:
- Detection: Finder or iTunes will display a message indicating that an iPhone in recovery mode has been detected and needs to be updated or restored.
- Choose Restore: You will typically be given two options: "Update" or "Restore." To format your iPhone, you must select "Restore."
- Confirm Action: Confirm that you want to restore the iPhone to its factory settings. This will download the latest iOS software and install it on your device, erasing all current data and settings.
- Wait for Process: The software download and restore process can take some time, depending on your internet speed. Do not disconnect your iPhone until the process is complete and your iPhone restarts.
What Happens After Formatting?
Once the restore process is complete, your iPhone will restart and display the "Hello" screen, just like a new device. You can then set it up from scratch.
Addressing Activation Lock
A critical point for a locked iPhone is Activation Lock. If "Find My" was enabled on your iPhone before it was formatted, you will be prompted to enter the Apple ID and password that were originally used to set up the device. This security feature prevents unauthorized use if your iPhone is lost or stolen.
Scenario | Outcome After Format & Activation Lock |
---|---|
You know Apple ID/Password | Can activate and set up the iPhone. |
You don't know Apple ID/Password | iPhone remains unusable ("brick") until the correct credentials are provided. You cannot bypass Activation Lock without the correct Apple ID credentials or proof of purchase from Apple. |
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Asurion tech tips on resetting an iPhone to factory settings.