Is there a way to restore iPad Air using Mac mini without passcode?

forgot passcode to iPad 12.5.5 iOS and trying to restore using new Mac mini no iTunes. Device is not showing in finder or Music

I recently replace the battery in an iPad Air 1st Gen (12.5.5 ios) that was last synced when my Mac mini had iTunes. I forgot the passcode and trying to restore using my new Mac mini. When plugged in to the new Mac mini, the iPad is not showing in the Apple Music app or in Finder. How can I fix?


[Edited by Moderator]

iPad Air, iOS 12

Posted on Jun 4, 2024 9:44 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 5, 2024 4:03 AM

If your iPhone/iPad indicates that it is disabled, or you have forgotten your iPad passcode, you have no alternative other than to follow this process:

If you’ve forgotten the passcode on your iPad, or your iPad is disabled – Apple Support


You’ll need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed - or more recent Apple Devices App) or a Mac computer (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of macOS).

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support


Apple Devices App (Windows PC):

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9np83lwlpz9k?hl=en-ms&gl=MS


Use of a Windows PC or Mac is unavoidable. If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store will be delighted to assist:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


If your iPad isn’t recognised when connected, try using a different USB port. Otherwise, this support page should help with troubleshooting connection difficulties:

If your computer doesn't recognize your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support



1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 5, 2024 4:03 AM in response to iPadairrevival

If your iPhone/iPad indicates that it is disabled, or you have forgotten your iPad passcode, you have no alternative other than to follow this process:

If you’ve forgotten the passcode on your iPad, or your iPad is disabled – Apple Support


You’ll need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed - or more recent Apple Devices App) or a Mac computer (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of macOS).

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support


Apple Devices App (Windows PC):

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9np83lwlpz9k?hl=en-ms&gl=MS


Use of a Windows PC or Mac is unavoidable. If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store will be delighted to assist:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple


If your iPad isn’t recognised when connected, try using a different USB port. Otherwise, this support page should help with troubleshooting connection difficulties:

If your computer doesn't recognize your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support



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Is there a way to restore iPad Air using Mac mini without passcode?

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