How to Erase a Locked iPhone or iPad (Reset)

If you have a locked iPhone or iPad and you can’t remember the passcode, or the device is disabled, you can still erase it and restore it to factory settings. This process removes the passcode and all data, returning the device to a like-new state. You’ll need a computer (Mac or PC) and, depending on your device and setup, either a USB cable or access to iCloud. This guide walks you through the three official methods: using iCloud, using a computer with Finder or iTunes, and using Recovery Mode for when the device is completely unresponsive.

What You’ll Need

A computer with the latest version of macOS or iTunes (on Windows).
A USB-to-Lightning or USB-C cable that works with your device.
Your Apple ID and password if you plan to use iCloud or if Find My is enabled (you’ll need to sign in after the erase to remove Activation Lock).
If you don’t have a computer, you can use iCloud.com from any browser, but you’ll still need your Apple ID credentials.

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Erase via iCloud (if Find My is enabled)

On a computer or another device, go to iCloud.com/find and sign in with the Apple ID that is linked to the locked device.
Click All Devices at the top, then select your locked iPhone or iPad from the list.
Click Erase iPhone (or Erase iPad). If asked, enter your Apple ID password again.
Follow the on-screen prompts. The device will be erased remotely as soon as it connects to the internet (Wi-Fi or cellular).
After the erase completes, you can either set it up as new or restore from a backup. If Activation Lock is on, you’ll need to enter your Apple ID and password during setup.

Method 2: Erase Using a Computer (Finder or iTunes)

Update your Mac to the latest macOS, or on Windows, make sure you have the latest version of iTunes.
Connect your locked iPhone or iPad to the computer using a cable.
If you see a prompt on the computer asking Trust This Computer?, and you can’t unlock the device to confirm, you’ll need to use Recovery Mode (Method 3). If you can unlock the device, tap Trust and enter your passcode.
On a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open Finder. On a PC or older Mac, open iTunes.
Your device should appear in the sidebar (Finder) or top-left corner (iTunes). Click on it.
Click Restore iPhone (or Restore iPad). If prompted, click Restore again to confirm. This will download the latest iOS or iPadOS and erase your device.
Wait for the process to finish. The device will restart and show the Hello screen, ready to be set up.

Method 3: Use Recovery Mode (if you can’t unlock the device)

Make sure your computer is on and has the latest Finder or iTunes.
Connect your device to the computer, but don’t launch Finder/iTunes yet.
Put your device into Recovery Mode:
- iPhone 8 or later, iPad with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button. Press and hold the Side button until the recovery mode screen appears (a computer icon and a cable).
- iPhone 7/7 Plus, iPod touch (7th gen): Press and hold the Side (or Top) button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until the recovery mode screen appears.
- iPhone 6s and earlier, iPad with Home button: Press and hold the Home button and the Top (or Side) button until the recovery mode screen appears.
Once you see the recovery mode screen, open Finder or iTunes on your computer. A dialog will appear saying your device has a problem and needs to be updated or restored.
Click Restore. This will erase the device and install the latest iOS/iPadOS. If the download takes long, your device may exit recovery mode; if so, repeat steps 3-4.
After the restore finishes, set up your device as new or from a backup.

Common Mistakes

Not checking Find My status: If Find My is on, you must turn it off before erasing via a computer. If you erase without turning off Find My, Activation Lock will remain and you’ll be stuck at the activation screen.
Using the wrong cable: A cheap or damaged cable can cause connection issues. Use an Apple-certified cable.
Interrupting the restore: Unplugging the device during the restore can brick it. Wait until the progress bar completes.
Forgetting to back up: If you have any chance to back up before erasing (e.g., via iCloud or iTunes), do it. Once erased, data is gone unless you have a backup.
Not updating iTunes: An outdated iTunes version may not recognize your device. Always update to the latest.

Tips

If you have a backup, you can restore it after erasing. Make sure the backup is from a time before you locked yourself out.
After erasing, if you see an Activation Lock screen and you don’t have the Apple ID password, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase to Apple Support to unlock it.
If you’re selling the device, after erasing, set it up as new and then sign out of iCloud (if you can) to remove Activation Lock entirely.
Keep your device charged above 50% before starting the restore to avoid power loss mid-process.

Troubleshooting

Device not recognized by computer: Try a different USB port, a different cable, or restart your computer. If you’re on Windows, make sure Apple Mobile Device USB driver is installed (usually via iTunes).

Recovery mode not appearing: Make sure you’re holding the correct buttons for your device model. If the Apple logo appears and then goes away, you’re not holding long enough. Try again with precise timing.

Error 4013 or 9: These often indicate a connection issue. Update iTunes/macOS, try a different cable/port, and restart both devices.

Device stuck on Apple logo after restore: Put it back into Recovery Mode and restore again. If it persists, contact Apple Support.

Activation Lock after erase: You must sign in with the Apple ID that was previously on the device. If you forgot it, go to iforgot.apple.com to reset your password. If you can’t, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase to Apple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will erasing remove the passcode?

Yes, erasing removes the passcode. The device will restart to the setup screen, and you can set a new passcode.

Can I erase without a computer?

Yes, if Find My is enabled, you can erase via iCloud.com/find. Otherwise, you’ll need a computer.

What if I don’t know the Apple ID password?

You’ll need to reset the password via iforgot.apple.com. If you can’t, the device will remain locked with Activation Lock.

Will my data be recoverable after erase?

No, erasing permanently deletes all data. If you have a backup, you can restore it after the erase.

How long does the restore take?

It varies, but typically 5-15 minutes for the download and install, depending on your internet speed.

Is it legal to erase a device I found?

No, erasing a device that isn’t yours is illegal and unethical. Only erase devices you own or have explicit permission to reset.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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