After installing the iOS 26 update, I encountered an unexpected roadblock: each restart prompted a passcode I could no longer recall, leaving the device completely inaccessible. If you’ve ever forgotten your iPhone passcode, you know how quickly this issue can disrupt both personal and professional life. Fortunately, the situation is recoverable. Below, I outline five proven methods—drawn from practical testing and industry-recommended practices—to unlock an iPhone or reset it securely, whether you prefer to restore the device or avoid a full restore.
5 Best Ways to Unlock or Reset – Tested in 2025
- PassFab iPhone Unlock - The most comprehensive and reliable tool, ideal for users who want a fast, all-in-one solution to unlock screen passcodes, Apple ID, Screen Time, MDM restrictions, or iCloud Activation Lock.
- Erase via iCloud – Convenient for those who remember their Apple ID and have Find My iPhone enabled, but note that it erases all device data.
- Find My App – Similar to iCloud, best for users with another Apple device in the ecosystem, offering a remote unlock option.
- iTunes Restore (Previously Synced) – Perfect for users who regularly sync their iPhone with iTunes, allowing backup and restore while keeping data safe.
- Recovery Mode Restore – A reliable last-resort method that works on all devices, though it erases all data and requires a computer.
Part 1 – How I Tested These iPhone Passcode Solutions
Before listing the best ways to regain access when you forgot iPhone passcode or are locked out of iPhone, it’s important to understand how each method was tested and why these specific options made the cut. In this section, you’ll see the exact process I used to evaluate every solution—so you can trust that the recommendations are based on real results, not just theory, whether you can't remember iPhone passcode or need to forgot iPhone passcode without restore.
How I Selected and Evaluated the 5 Unlock Methods
To build this 2025 guide, I focused on the most reliable ways to regain access when you forget an iPhone passcode—covering options like PassFab iPhone Unlock, iCloud Erase, Find My app, and iTunes restore. I personally tried each method on the latest iOS versions, checking ease of use, success rate, possible data loss, and overall stability. I also reviewed up-to-date feedback on Reddit, Quora, and Apple Support to ensure the results reflect real user experiences.
My Criteria for the Best iPhone Passcode Unlock Methods in 2025
- High Unlock Success Rate: Must consistently work across different iPhone models and iOS updates.
- Compatibility: Full support for the newest iOS releases and devices.
- Minimal Data Risk: Clear backup or restore options to protect personal data.
- Ease of Use: Simple, step-by-step process—no technical skills required.
- Security & Value: Safe operation and fair pricing for paid tools.
Applying these standards, I identified the five most effective ways to unlock a forgotten iPhone passcode—so you can quickly choose the method that fits your needs in 2025.
Part 2 – Best Ways to Unlock iPhone When You Forget Passcode
1. Unlock Lock Screen with PassFab iPhone Unlock
If you forgot your iPhone passcode, PassFab iPhone Unlock proved to be the fastest and most reliable solution in my hands-on testing. I tested it on an iPhone 17 and a second-hand iPhone 14, covering scenarios like screen passcode removal, Apple ID bypass, Screen Time passcode, MDM restrictions, and iCloud Activation Lock. In all cases, the software successfully unlocked the devices within minutes, and the interface was intuitive enough for both beginners and advanced users.
What impressed me most was the new no-jailbreak iCloud Activation Lock removal feature. On the second-hand iPhone, I could safely bypass iCloud lock without risking the device, which is particularly useful for those who bought or sold used iPhones. Compared with other tools I tested, PassFab iPhone Unlock offered a more complete and reliable solution.
Key Features
- Remove 4-digit/6-digit passcodes, Touch ID, and Face ID
- Bypass Screen Time passcodes and MDM restrictions
- Remove Apple ID and iCloud Activation Lock without jailbreaking
- Fully compatible with iOS 12 to iOS 26, including iPhone 14, iPhone 16, iPhone 17, and iPhone Air
- Simple workflow that’s beginner-friendly yet reliable for advanced users
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comprehensive unlocking toolkit for all major lock types
- Intuitive interface, easy for beginners
- Fast and stable performance
- Responsive customer support and detailed documentation
- No-jailbreak iCloud Activation Lock removal
Cons
- Device data will be erased during unlock
- Some iCloud Activation Lock features require compatibility confirmation for newest models
- Limited advanced options for niche cases
User Feedback
Its been a pleasure subscribing to pass fab. i highly recommend Passfab to anybody whos trying to have an easy to use,straight to the point, self explanatory experience. Further more when i had questions there support team were good at quickly answering then in a timely fashion. Totally happy with there service hands down Thanks alot PassFab for providing an easy to use and understand great service. I will be recomending you in all my social platforms and anybody i run into. Thanks
I wish there was a live chat support
Best For
- Users who forgot their screen passcode or Apple ID
- Buyers of second-hand iPhones stuck on iCloud Activation Lock
- Anyone who wants a fast, safe, and reliable unlock solution at home
Not Ideal For
- Users who need to preserve all data on their device
- Those with the very latest iPhone models requiring guaranteed iCloud Activation Lock removal
My Summary
From my hands-on experience, PassFab iPhone Unlock consistently delivers high success rates, speed, and reliability for unlocking iPhones without restore. Its no-jailbreak iCloud lock removal feature makes it the top choice for anyone who forgot their iPhone passcode in 2025.
- 01 Install and launch PassFab iPhone Unlock, click "Start" to begin unlock lock screen.
- 02 At this screen you'll be prompted to connect your iPhone via USB cable, the software will automatically detect your iPhone. Then click "Next".
- 03 Download the matching firmware package.
- 04 Wait for the firmware to download successfully, then click "Start Remove".
- 05 Just wait for a while, the iPhone passcode will be removed. The iPhone will reatart and you can reset it as a new phone and recover data from iCloud if you ever backed up in it.
2. Erase iPhone Using iCloud Without Restore
If you forgot your iPhone passcode but still remember your Apple ID and password, using iCloud is a convenient way to unlock your device without a full restore. During my hands-on testing on an iPhone 16, I was able to bypass the screen passcode quickly using iCloud, provided that Find My iPhone was enabled and the device was connected to the internet. This method is especially useful for users who want a simple, remote solution without installing any software.
Key Features
- Remotely erase iPhone and remove screen passcode via iCloud
- No software installation required
- Works on any iPhone with Find My iPhone enabled
- Can restore device from iCloud backup after erase
- Free to use
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Works remotely without a computer
- Simple and straightforward process
- No additional software needed
- Free to use
Cons
- Requires Apple ID, password, and enabled Find My iPhone
- Will erase all device data
- Internet connection required
- Cannot bypass iCloud lock if Apple ID credentials are unknown
User Feedback
Using iCloud to erase my iPhone without restoring was surprisingly quick and convenient. I didn’t need a computer, and the entire process could be done remotely. As long as ‘Find My iPhone’ was enabled and I remembered my Apple ID and password, the device was wiped clean in minutes. It’s a lifesaver if you forget your passcode or need to secure your device fast.
- Jessica Hartman
The iCloud erase method works, but there’s a catch: after wiping the device, it gets stuck on the Activation Lock screen if you forget your Apple ID credentials. I had to recover my Apple ID to regain access, which was a frustrating experience. This method is not ideal if you’re buying a second-hand iPhone or don’t remember your Apple ID password.
- Michael Trent
Best For
- Users who remember their Apple ID and password
- Anyone needing a remote solution without connecting to a computer
- Those comfortable with erasing the device and restoring from backup
Not Ideal For
- Users without Apple ID credentials or disabled Find My iPhone
- Those who need to preserve all on-device data without erasing
My Summary
Using iCloud to erase your iPhone is a reliable and software-free method to unlock a device when you’ve forgotten the passcode. During my hands-on testing, it worked quickly and safely as long as Apple ID credentials were available. While it erases data, restoring from iCloud backup makes it a practical solution for many users in 2025.
Step 1: Search iCloud.com in the browser on your computer and login your Apple ID and password.
Step 2: Choose "Find iPhone" from the menu list. You may need to enter Apple ID password again.
Step 3: Tap on "All Devices" and find the iPhone for which you forgot the passcode.
Step 4: Then select "Erase iPhone" from 3 options and accept warning by clicking on "Erase".
Step 5: Re-enter the Apple ID password to confirm your operation.
3. Remove Passcode from iPhone Without Restore Using Find My App
For users who forgot their iPhone passcode and want to unlock the device without restoring via iTunes or losing data, the Find My app on another Apple device is a practical option. During my hands-on testing on an iPhone 16, I was able to erase and unlock the device remotely using my iPad through Find My, provided the iPhone had Find My iPhone enabled and was connected to the internet. This method is particularly useful for Apple ecosystem users who want a simple, device-to-device solution.
Key Features
- Remotely erase iPhone and remove screen passcode using another Apple device
- No need for a computer or additional software
- Supports any iPhone with Find My iPhone enabled
- Can restore device from iCloud backup after erase
- Safe and straightforward for Apple ecosystem users
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Remote unlock without computer or extra software
- Simple and quick process
- Works on any iPhone in the Apple ecosystem
- Free to use
Cons
- Requires Apple ID, password, and enabled Find My iPhone
- Erases all device data
- Internet connection requiredCannot bypass iCloud lock if Apple ID
- credentials are unknown
User Feedback
In most cases, if you have forgotten your passcode, you have to reset your iPhone via recovery mode or iCloud Find My iPhone, both of which erase all existing data on your iPhone
If you have Find My iPhone enabled, you can use iCloud to erase your device remotely, which will remove the passcode. However, this will also delete all data on the device. After erasing, you can restore your iPhone from a backup if you have one.
Best For
- Users who remember their Apple ID and password
- Those who own another Apple device and want a remote unlock solution
- Anyone wanting a quick and software-free way to remove iPhone passcode
Not Ideal For
- Users without Apple ID credentials or a secondary Apple device
- Those who need to keep all on-device data intact
My Summary
Using the Find My app to unlock an iPhone is a reliable and device-to-device method for anyone who forgot their passcode in 2025. During my hands-on testing, it was efficient and simple, particularly for users already integrated into the Apple ecosystem. While it erases all device data, restoring from iCloud backup ensures users can recover their information safely.
- Download Find My App on your another device/iPad and login the Apple ID and password connected to the locked iPhone.
Find the device from "Deices" for which you forgot iPhone and click it.
Scroll down to click on "Erase This Device" and accept the warning by clicking "Continue".
Enter phone number and message if you want. Then tap on "Erase".
Finally, re-enter the Apple ID password and click "Erase" to confirm.
4. Restore iPhone with iTunes (If Previously Synced)
If you forgot your iPhone passcode but have synced your device with iTunes before, this method allows you to back up and restore your iPhone without losing all your data. During my hands-on testing with an iPhone 16, I successfully used iTunes to access the device and create a backup, provided that the iPhone was recognized as a trusted device on the computer. This is the safest approach for users who want to recover their data while unlocking the device.
Key Features
- Backup iPhone even after forgetting the passcode (if previously synced)
- Restore or unlock iPhone via iTunes without additional software
- Supports both Windows and Mac computers with iTunes installed
- Preserves device data when used correctly
- Works on iPhones running older and latest iOS versions (tested up to iOS 26)
Pros and Cons
User Feedback iTunes restore its quicker provided you’ve backed up recently.
I'm trying to restore all my info that was backed up to my computer through itunes from an iphone 5 to an iphone 7.
It keeps bringing up the error message that it could not be restored because the backup was corrupt or not compatible with the iphone that is being restored.
Best For
- Users who previously synced their iPhone with iTunes
- Anyone wanting to preserve data while unlocking the device
- Those comfortable using a computer for backup and restore
Not Ideal For
- Users who never synced their iPhone with iTunes
- Those who do not have access to their trusted computer
- Users seeking the fastest method without a PC
My Summary
Using iTunes to restore your iPhone is a reliable method for unlocking a forgotten passcode while keeping your data intact, but it only works if the iPhone was previously synced. During my hands-on testing, the method was straightforward and safe, making it an essential option for users who regularly back up their devices in 2025.
Forgot iPhone Passcode No Backup? Restore iPhone using iTunes
Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your system and open iTunes. Select your device when it pops up in the top left corner.
Step 2: Click on the "Summary" tab on the left menu. Under your iPhone model, there will be a text box with iOS version your device has and storage capacity. And a "Restore iPhone" button at the bottom.
Step 3: Click the Restore iPhone button and you'll be prompted with the "Set Up" screen, where you can select to restore from iTunes backup or if there is no backup available, you'll have to go factory settings.
Forgot iPhone Passcode without Losing Data? Unlock with Previous Backup
1. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB data cable, then launch iTunes.
2. Your device will shortly appear on the left top corner, select the device.
3. Now allow your device to automatically sync the iPhone and make a backup. If it doesn't automatically backup you can opt to click the backup button on the iTunes screen when you select your device.
4. As your device is backed up, you can see the date and time it was backed up under the "Latest Backup" tag on the summary page of iTunes. Then you can click the "Restore" button to unlock iPhone passcode and restore iPhone data.
5. Restore iPhone via Recovery Mode
If you forgot your iPhone passcode and cannot use iTunes backup or iCloud methods, Recovery Mode provides a reliable way to unlock your device. During my hands-on testing on an iPhone 16 and a second-hand iPhone 14, I successfully used Recovery Mode to erase the passcode and restore the devices to factory settings. This method is especially useful for users who haven’t synced with iTunes or don’t remember Apple ID credentials, though it will erase all data.
Key Features
- Unlock iPhone without Apple ID or previous iTunes sync
- Works on all iPhone models and iOS versions (tested up to iOS 26)
- Erases passcode and restores device to factory settings
- Compatible with Windows and Mac computers with iTunes or Finder
- Free method, no additional software required
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Works on all iPhones regardless of Apple ID or previous sync
- No additional software needed
- Free and widely accessible
- Reliable for locked, disabled, or unresponsive devices
Cons
- Will erase all device data
- Slightly more technical than iCloud or iTunes methods
- Must follow exact steps to enter Recovery Mode
- Data recovery only possible if a backup exists
Recovery Mode is the most common way to get back to a working phone for multiple issues and has potential to solve a fair amount. First thing to know is to recovery mode is evident by the phone/device displaying the connect to iTunes screen. When this happens whether on purpose or accidental, there are a few options.
The Apple recovery process is so mind boggling stupid. Found my old iPad and have spent the last 6 hours trying to factory restart it as I have forgotten the password.
Best For
- Users who cannot access Apple ID or haven’t synced with iTunes
- Anyone needing a reliable unlock method for disabled or locked iPhones
- Those comfortable following step-by-step instructions on a computer
Not Ideal For
- Users who need to preserve all device data without backups
- Beginners who prefer one-click, automated unlock tools
My Summary
Recovery Mode remains a dependable last-resort method for unlocking an iPhone in 2025. In my hands-on testing, it successfully removed passcodes and restored devices, making it an essential option when other methods aren’t available. While it erases data, it ensures your iPhone is accessible again, allowing you to set it up as new or restore from a backup.
Step 1: Reboot your device. To get into recovery mode, the technique varies for various iPhone models. For your comfort and ease, I've presented a pictorial depiction of the process. Follow along as per your iPhone model.
- For iPhone 6s and older models, you need to press and hold the Side button when you see the Power off slider. Drag it to turn off iPhone and press and hold the Home button to connect iPhone to iTunes and enter recovery mode.
- For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, press and hold the Side button until you see the Power off slider. Drag it to turn off iPhone and press and hold the Volume Down button to connect iPhone to computer and enter recovery mode.
- For iPhone 8 and later models, you should press and hold the Side and one of the Volume buttons meanwhile to enter the Power off screen. Drag the slider to turn off iPhone and press and hold the Side button until you have connected iPhone to computer and see the recovery mode screen.
Step 2: You will be prompted with a Restore or Update options. Click on Restore and iTunes will download the required software for your device. After the process, you'll get an iPhone like just a new one.
Part 3 – How to Choose the Most Suitable iPhone Unlock Tool
After testing all five methods and several iPhone unlock solutions, it’s clear that each approach has its strengths and limitations. To help you quickly determine which method or tool fits your needs, I’ve summarized the key differences across price, scope, ease of use, data security, and applicable users.
During my hands-on testing, I found that PassFab iPhone Unlock consistently offers the best balance of success rate, features, and ease of use, but depending on your situation—like remembering Apple ID or having access to a trusted computer—other methods may also be appropriate.
Comparison Table of iPhone Unlock Methods (Tested in 2025)
| Method / Tool | Price | Scope | Ease of Use | Data Security | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PassFab iPhone Unlock | Paid | Screen Passcode, Apple ID, Screen Time, MDM, iCloud Activation Lock | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | High – device wiped but secure | Users who want a fast, reliable, all-in-one unlock solution |
| Erase iPhone via iCloud | Free | Screen Passcode | ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium – erases all data | Users who remember Apple ID and Find My iPhone is enabled |
| Find My App Unlock | Free | Screen Passcode | ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium – erases all data | Apple ecosystem users with another Apple device |
| iTunes Restore (Previously Synced) | Free | Screen Passcode | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | High – preserves data if previously synced | Users with prior iTunes sync and trusted computer |
| Recovery Mode Restore | Free | Screen Passcode | ⭐⭐ | Low – erases all data | Users without Apple ID access or iTunes sync |
By using this table, you can quickly identify the method that matches your situation, whether you prioritize speed, cost, or data safety.
Conclusion
I forgot my iPhone passcode? Don’t worry— in 2025, there are reliable ways to unlock or reset iPhone safely. Choosing the right method depends on your iOS version, device model, and whether you want to preserve data.
From my hands-on testing, PassFab iPhone Unlocker stands out for its high success rate, ease of use, and full-featured unlocking, making it a top choice for most users who forgot passcode on iPhone.
With the right method, you can quickly regain access to your iPhone and get back to using it without unnecessary stress.
PassFab iPhone Unlock
- Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
- Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
- Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
- No Jailbreak Required - Easily remove iCloud Activation Lock without jailbreak
- Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 26, iPhone 17 series, and iPhone Air
PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.
