iPad passcode reset

New iPad but during setup forgot passcode now I can’t get into the unit…tried iTunes reset and still doesn’t work

iPhone 13, iOS 16

Posted on Aug 7, 2023 8:35 PM

Reply
Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Aug 7, 2023 8:43 PM

Hello,


If you see a waiting period you can wait and try again. If the iPad is actually disabled, or one for which you have forgotten the passcode, Apple provides different solutions depending upon the system version you are using and other criteria.


For devices with iPadOS 15.2 or later* you may be able to use the method in this support article: If you see an iPhone or iPad unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support This does not require a computer.


Here is a related video: https://www.youtube.com/watch/7s8-zLG9ySQ


If your device is still running iPadOS 15.1 or earlier, you will need to use the method in this support article: If you forgot your iPad passcode - Apple Support

You may also need to use this method if:

• your device is not connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network (if you restart your device when you see "Security Lockout" on the Lock Screen, you won't be able to reconnect to a Wi-Fi network until your device is unlocked. Cellular devices will reconnect to a cellular network if you have active service).

• you do not have your Apple ID and password that you used to set up your device.


*These models, when running iPadOS 15.2 or later, do not require a computer:

iPad Air2, iPad mini4 (if updated)

iPad Pro

iPad Air 3rd generation and later

iPad (5th generation and later)

iPad mini (5th generation and later)


Here are resources if you are prompted for your username and password and have forgotten them:

If you forgot your Apple ID email address or phone number - Apple Support Note that typically this is an email address you use.

If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support


If you do not have a computer, use this link Find Locations to find an Apple service location, or ask a friend if you can use theirs.


Whichever method you use will result in erasing the iPad. You can, however, restore it from a backup as described in this support article --> Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support


2 replies
Question marked as Best reply

Aug 7, 2023 8:43 PM in response to el187

Hello,


If you see a waiting period you can wait and try again. If the iPad is actually disabled, or one for which you have forgotten the passcode, Apple provides different solutions depending upon the system version you are using and other criteria.


For devices with iPadOS 15.2 or later* you may be able to use the method in this support article: If you see an iPhone or iPad unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support This does not require a computer.


Here is a related video: https://www.youtube.com/watch/7s8-zLG9ySQ


If your device is still running iPadOS 15.1 or earlier, you will need to use the method in this support article: If you forgot your iPad passcode - Apple Support

You may also need to use this method if:

• your device is not connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network (if you restart your device when you see "Security Lockout" on the Lock Screen, you won't be able to reconnect to a Wi-Fi network until your device is unlocked. Cellular devices will reconnect to a cellular network if you have active service).

• you do not have your Apple ID and password that you used to set up your device.


*These models, when running iPadOS 15.2 or later, do not require a computer:

iPad Air2, iPad mini4 (if updated)

iPad Pro

iPad Air 3rd generation and later

iPad (5th generation and later)

iPad mini (5th generation and later)


Here are resources if you are prompted for your username and password and have forgotten them:

If you forgot your Apple ID email address or phone number - Apple Support Note that typically this is an email address you use.

If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support


If you do not have a computer, use this link Find Locations to find an Apple service location, or ask a friend if you can use theirs.


Whichever method you use will result in erasing the iPad. You can, however, restore it from a backup as described in this support article --> Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support


Aug 7, 2023 8:49 PM in response to el187

If you've forgotten the passcode for your new iPad during the setup process and the iTunes reset isn't working, you might need to consider a more comprehensive solution to regain access to your device. Here's what you can try:


1. Recovery Mode Restore: This method involves putting your iPad into recovery mode and then restoring it using iTunes. Here's how to do it:


a. Connect your iPad to your computer and open iTunes (or Finder if you're on macOS Catalina or later).

b. Force restart your iPad:

- For iPad with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Top button until the device enters recovery mode.

- For iPad with Home button: Press and hold both the Home and Top (or Side) buttons until the device enters recovery mode.

c. You should see the option to "Restore" or "Update" in iTunes/Finder. Choose "Restore" to erase your device and install the latest iOS version.


Please note that this will erase all data on your iPad, including the forgotten passcode.


2. Contact Apple Support: If the recovery mode restore doesn't work or if you're uncomfortable with performing these steps yourself, consider contacting Apple Support. They can guide you through the process or help you find an Apple Store or authorized service provider for assistance.


3. Find My iPad (Activation Lock): If you've enabled Find My iPad and set up Activation Lock, your device might be linked to your Apple ID. In this case, you might need to log in with your Apple ID and password to unlock the device. If you've forgotten your Apple ID password as well, you can go to the Apple ID account page (appleid.apple.com) to reset it.


Remember that the recovery mode restore will erase all data on your iPad, so make sure you have a backup of your important information if possible.


If none of the above steps work and you're unable to regain access to your iPad, it's recommended to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for further assistance.

iPad passcode reset

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.