One of the most infuriating experiences especially in this recent time would be to forget your phone passcode. You might ask how possible could that be for anyone to forget their phone passcode Considering how often we make use of it on a daily basis. Well, all I can say is – it is possible and it can happen to anyone. Having said that, let’s learn how to remedy the situation if it eventually happens.

Our focus in this piece would be on iPhones; possibly in subsequent publication, we will learn about Android OS and others.

Let’s get started
For the purpose of this article, we will be looking at 4 potential ways to unlock your iPhone smartphone without a passcode.

• Using iCloud
• Using a Computer
• Using Apple Watch
• Using Reset option

Using iCloud

If you forgot the passcode and the Face ID isn’t working, don’t worry.
iCloud’s “Find My iPhone” feature not only helps locate a lost device but also offers an option to remotely erase and restore your iPhone, removing the passcode. Follow these steps:

1. Access iCloud: Visit iCloud.com on a computer or use the Find My app on another Apple device.
2. Sign In: Log in with your Apple ID and password associated with the locked iPhone.
3. Locate Device: Select “All Devices” and choose the iPhone you wish to unlock.
4. Erase iPhone: Click “Erase iPhone” to wipe the device, including the passcode.
5. Restore from Backup: After erasing, restore your iPhone from a previous backup via iCloud or iTunes.

Note: This method will only work if you have already enabled the Find My feature on your iPhone. It will also erase all your iPhone data.

Using A Computer

One of the ways to unlock your iPhone without a passcode or Face ID is using a computer.

1. First, you need to turn Off your iPhone.
2. Connect iPhone to Computer: Connect your iPhone to a computer and open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
3. Enter Recovery Mode: Force restart your iPhone by following specific steps based on your iPhone model.

• For iPhone 8 or later models: Press and hold the Side button.
• iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Use the Volume Down button.
• For iPhone SE and iPhone 6s or earlier models: Use the Home button.
4. Restore iPhone: When prompted in iTunes, choose the “Restore” option to erase the device and install the latest iOS version.
5. Set Up iPhone: After restoration, set up your iPhone as a new device or restore from a backup.

Note: This method will erase everything and factory reset your iPhone.

Using Apple Watch

If you own an Apple Watch and it’s paired with your iPhone, you can unlock your iPhone by simply unlocking the Apple Watch. The watch needs to be on your wrist and unlocked for this to work.

1. Tap your iPhone, when prompted to enter the passcode, glance at your iPhone. If your Apple Watch is locked, you’ll be asked to unlock it.

2. Look at your iPhone and you’ll be able to pass over the passcode.

3. Once completed, you will get a notification on your Apple Watch telling you that your iPhone was unlocked by this Apple Watch, with an option to Lock the iPhone again.

Using Reset Method

If you know your Apple ID password, it is possible to unlock your iPhone without passcode or a computer.

1. On your locked iPhone, trying multiple times to unlock the iphone until screen shows iPhone Unavailable.
2.Tap the “Forgot Passcode?” option. You will find the at the bottom-right corner of the screen.

3. Tap the “Start iPhone Restart” option.

4. Enter your Apple ID password to erase the iPhone.

5. Confirm the operation and wait for the process to complete. You can now set up your iPhone as new or restore it from a backup if you performed one.

Note: Your iPhone version must be running iOS 15.2 or more and connected to a Wi-Fi or Cellular Network.

As I conclude, forgetting your iPhone passcode is a common occurrence, however there are various methods to regain access to your device beyond the 4 listed above. It is hence important to choose the method that aligns with your preferences and device specifications considering data loss and ease. I will always emphasize the need for regular backups to prevent data loss during such situations.