iCloud Data isn't syncing because I used alphanumeric passcode in iPhone

I changed my phone's passcode to be alphanumeric (not just numbers but also letters, case sensitive, the works). Whenever my Mac tries to sync data from the iCloud there is an error in the Systems Settings, in order to resume Data Sync, my Mac requests my iPhone's passcode but the problem is that the popup only gives an option for a 6 digit numeric entry and does not allow for an alphanumeric entry. I tried putting my previous numeric passcode but it doesn't work because it's not the current phone's passcode. I'd prefer not to have to revert to a numeric passcode. It doesn't give me the option to change the style of passcode so this makes it impossible to sync my iCloud data between my Mac and my iPhone. I think it is an issue with the Mac not allowing for different styles of passcode entries in order to sync the data. In other words, the Mac only expects a 6-digit iphone passcode so the option is not configured to allow for those who have alphanumeric passcodes to sync their data.

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jul 8, 2025 7:55 PM

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3 replies

Jul 9, 2025 7:57 AM in response to Fede_GYE

Fede_GYE wrote: …Whenever my Mac tries to sync data from the iCloud … my Mac requests my iPhone's passcode

I've never had my Mac ask for my phone's passcode. I don't see why it would. Syncing with iCloud is syncing with iCloud, not with your iPhone.


Are you doing something different? Exactly what steps are you using? What do you see at iCloud.com? How do you know this message comes from Apple?


I've also never used letters for my passcode-- didn't know you could…

Jul 9, 2025 11:08 AM in response to Fede_GYE

That's pretty weird! Is it meaning for you to unlock your phone? Is your phone already unlocked when you do this? Can you do the "verification" on the phone, instead?


You might try restarting the Mac in Safe Mode, and doing a forced restart of the phone:

     Start up your Mac in safe mode - Apple Support 

Force restart iPhone - Apple Support -- This is different from a simple Power Off. I had to continue holding the button down past the "slide to power off" message, and then I released the button only after  the Apple Logo appeared indicating a re-start. 


If nothing else works, I think that I would go back to a numeric passcode, make sure everything works right, and then try again.


Just guessing, of course. I've not experienced this.

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iCloud Data isn't syncing because I used alphanumeric passcode in iPhone

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