Can I reset the iphone screen lock without erasing the device?

I'm using Iphone 14 pro max, with 16.4.1 iOS version, I forgot my screen lock passcode and I do not have icloud backup. I want to reset my screen passcode without erasing the iPhone. Has anyone done this before?

iPhone 14 Pro Max, iOS 16

Posted on May 16, 2023 4:29 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on May 18, 2023 3:32 AM

Resetting the screen lock passcode on an iPhone without erasing the device can be a challenging task. Unfortunately, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no known method or official way to reset the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone.

When you forget your screen lock passcode and do not have an iCloud backup, the most common solution is to perform a factory reset, which erases all data on the device. This is the only way to regain access to the iPhone.

However, there are a few things you can try before resorting to a factory reset:

  1. iTunes Restore: Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed and put the device into Recovery Mode. iTunes should detect the device in recovery mode and prompt you to restore it. Keep in mind that this will erase all data on the iPhone.
  2. Third-party tools: There are some third-party tools available that claim to bypass the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone. However, these tools often come with risks and may not be reliable. Exercise caution and thoroughly research any tool or software before using it, as they may violate Apple's terms of service or compromise the security of your device.

It's important to note that any method or tool used to bypass the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone may have limitations or potential risks. It's always recommended to have regular backups of your data and to keep your passcode in a secure place to avoid situations like this.

For the most up-to-date and accurate information, I recommend contacting Apple Support directly for assistance with your specific situation. They can provide you with the best guidance based on your iPhone model and iOS version.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

May 18, 2023 3:32 AM in response to ra_mbo

Resetting the screen lock passcode on an iPhone without erasing the device can be a challenging task. Unfortunately, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no known method or official way to reset the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone.

When you forget your screen lock passcode and do not have an iCloud backup, the most common solution is to perform a factory reset, which erases all data on the device. This is the only way to regain access to the iPhone.

However, there are a few things you can try before resorting to a factory reset:

  1. iTunes Restore: Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed and put the device into Recovery Mode. iTunes should detect the device in recovery mode and prompt you to restore it. Keep in mind that this will erase all data on the iPhone.
  2. Third-party tools: There are some third-party tools available that claim to bypass the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone. However, these tools often come with risks and may not be reliable. Exercise caution and thoroughly research any tool or software before using it, as they may violate Apple's terms of service or compromise the security of your device.

It's important to note that any method or tool used to bypass the screen lock passcode without erasing the iPhone may have limitations or potential risks. It's always recommended to have regular backups of your data and to keep your passcode in a secure place to avoid situations like this.

For the most up-to-date and accurate information, I recommend contacting Apple Support directly for assistance with your specific situation. They can provide you with the best guidance based on your iPhone model and iOS version.

May 16, 2023 7:56 PM in response to ra_mbo

If you have a forgotten/unknown device passcode, or have a disabled device (device unavailable or lockout screen), you unfortunately have no option but to erase the device. However, you can eventually restore the data and settings from a backup you made before the device was disabled, or if you were using iCloud to store that data. If you end up having to use a computer and you do not have one, borrow one from a friend, or go to an Apple Retail Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. You can also use a PC with iTunes. You will likely also need your Apple ID and password. All Apple mobile devices follow the same general procedure but the link below, and other links off it, provides system and model specific instructions:


If you see an iPhone or iPad unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support


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Can I reset the iphone screen lock without erasing the device?

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