How To Open Your iPhone XS Max Without a Home Button | Dr.fone

How To Open Your iPhone XS Max Without a Home Button | Dr.fone

Amelia Lv12

How To Open Your Apple iPhone XS Max Without a Home Button

Accidents happen, and sometimes they take a toll on your Apple iPhone XS Max’s essential components, like the Home button. Whether it’s a drop, spill, or wear and tear, a damaged Home button can be a problem over time. The frustration peaks when you find yourself locked out, and at a loss.

But fear not, for there are ways to unlock an iPhone without a Home button. This guide explores ways how to open an iPhone without a Home button. In case of a Home button malfunction, explore these quick and easy fixes for a reliable workaround. Read on to learn more.

user pressing iphone Home button

Part 1. 7 Ways To Unlock iPhone Without Home Button

If your Apple iPhone XS Max’s Home button is out of commission, don’t worry. There are several ways to regain access to your device. Let’s explore seven methods on how to unlock an iPhone without a Home button.

Method 1: Unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max Without the Home Button via Touch ID

If your device supports Touch ID, you can use your fingerprint to unlock it. Follow the steps:

  • Step 1: Head to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode. Next, tap Add a Fingerprint.

user pressing iphone Home button

  • Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Touch ID.

_Note__:_ Please be aware that this approach is effective only when you can still navigate through your Apple iPhone XS Max’s settings. If that’s not the case, proceed to the following method.

Method 2: Unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max Without the Home Button via the Rest Finger to Open

Building upon the initial method, this resolution is effective only if you have previously configured Touch ID. To unlock an iPhone without using the Home button, you can activate the Rest Finger to Open feature. Ensure that Touch ID is permitted for unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max, and then follow the steps below:

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Accessibility > Home Button.

rest finger to open toggle

Step 2: Toggle the switch next to Rest Finger to Open to enable this feature.

Method 3: Unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max Without the Home Button via AssistiveTouch

The alternative solution for how to open an iPhone without the Home button but with AssistiveTouch. The feature is designed to simplify iPhone usage. It allows various actions without pressing the Home button or other physical buttons. Here’s how.

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Touch > Accessibility, and activate AssistiveTouch. The action will display the AssistiveTouch menu button on your screen.

settings to assistivetouch toggle

  • Step 2: A floating grayscale button will emerge on your screen after verification. Tap on it. A contextual menu will display, offering options to emulate the functions of your Home button.

assistivetouch menu selections

  • Step 3: Tap Customize Top Level Menu under Assistive Touch and choose Home. The action will guide you to the Apple iPhone XS Max passcode screen. From here, you can input your passcode to unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max without using the Home button.

Method 4: Unlock iPhone Without Home Button via Dedicated Tool

Unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max without a functional home button becomes effortless with Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS). It’s a specialized tool designed to handle various lock screen issues. Here’s a comprehensive list of key features to get you started:

Parental Control Software

#1 Rated Parental Control Software.
Monitor & Control all PC Activity!
sentrypc.com/parental-controls/
![dr.fone main window](https://images.wondershare.com/drfone/guide/drfone-home.png)
  • **Remove all types of Lock Screens.**Fone Screen Unlock (iOS) can bypass various lock screen types, including passcodes, Touch ID, and Face ID.
  • **Bypass Apple ID without a password.**If your Home button is compromised, and you can’t enter the Apple ID password, Dr.Fone can bypass it.
  • The tool is compatible with all iPhones equipped with a Home button, ensuring versatility across multiple iPhone models.
  • **High success rate.**The platform boasts a high success rate in unlocking devices and follows a straightforward 3-step process.

How To Unlock iPhone Without Home Button With Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) simplifies the process of unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max without a functional Home button. Follow the steps below:

  • Step 1: Visit the official Dr.Fone website and download software. Install the software on your computer and launch it. Next, click Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS. Connect your Apple iPhone XS Max using a USB cable and choose Unlock iOS Screen. Ensure the software recognizes your device.

dr.fone unlock ios screen window

  • Step 2: Click Start and follow the on-screen instructions. Dr.Fone will automatically detect your device and provide the appropriate firmware package for download. Confirm and proceed.

start ios screen unlocking process

  • Step 3: Once the firmware is downloaded, Dr.Fone will verify it. Confirm the details and click Unlock Now to begin the unlocking process. Follow the on-screen instructions once more.

dr.fone unlock now window

  • Step 4: The software will remove the lock screen from your Apple iPhone XS Max. Click Try again if your Apple iPhone XS Max is still locked. Otherwise, click the Done button. After successful unlocking, set up your Apple iPhone XS Max as new. You can now unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max without the Home button.

dr.fone successful unlock window

Method 5: Unlock iPhone via Erase iPhone Features (iOS 15.2)

With iOS 15.2, Apple introduced the Erase iPhone feature, aiding users in resetting devices with forgotten passcodes. The functionality applies to iPhones connected to the network with a broken Home button. Compatible devices include iPhone 6 series, iPhone SE series, and newer models. However, it comes at the cost of erasing all content and data on the Apple iPhone XS Max device. Follow the steps:

  • Step 1: Power on your Apple iPhone XS Max by tapping the Power button, then enter the wrong passcode multiple times until the Erase iPhone button appears at the bottom right corner of the screen.

erase iphone process

  • Step 2: Tap the Erase iPhone button and input your Apple ID passcode to initiate the process. Once the Apple logo displays on your Apple iPhone XS Max screen, you can now access your device without the need for a passcode.

_Note__**_**Keep in mind that all previous content and data on the phone will be erased during this operation.

Method 6: Unlock iPhone via iTunes/Finder

For Mac or Windows users, both Finder and iTunes can unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max without the Home button. Windows or Mac Mojave users are recommended to use iTunes. Mac Catalina and newer users should use Finder. Before using iTunes or Finder, it’s advisable to back up your Apple iPhone XS Max on iCloud. Here’s how to proceed:

  • Step 1: Put your Apple iPhone XS Max in the recovery mode and connect it to the computer. Launch Finder or iTunes for Windows or Mac Mojave users.

itunes finder iphone recovery mode

  • Step 2: A window in Finder will prompt you to choose between restoring or updating; click Restore. Confirm your action by tapping Restore again. Upon completion, your Apple iPhone XS Max will be unlocked without the Home button.

Method 7: Unlock iPhone via iCloud

If none of the methods work or Dr.Fone is unavailable to you for some reason, then you can use iCloud. To unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max without the Home button, visit iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID. Next, go to Find My iPhone, select your device, and choose Erase iPhone to unlock it remotely.

erase iphone on icloud

Part 2. What To Do if Your Home Button Is Broken

When faced with a broken iPhone Home button, several quick fixes and solutions can sometimes help. Here are some effective measures before considering professional assistance:

broken iphone home button

Recalibrate the Home Button

Go to Settings > General > Accessibility and toggle the Bold Text switch. Restart your Apple iPhone XS Max, and this may recalibrate the Home button.

Restore iPhone Firmware

In extreme cases, restoring the iPhone firmware can resolve Home button issues. Tools like Dr.Fone offer a comprehensive solution to restore firmware and address various lock screen challenges.

Clean the Home Button

Dust and debris can affect the Home button’s functionality. Gently clean the area around the button using a small, soft brush or compressed air.

Use the Charger to Press Against the Home Button

This unconventional method involves using the charging cable to apply gentle pressure on the Home button. Be cautious to avoid excessive force.

Visit the Apple Store if Covered by a Warranty

If your Apple iPhone XS Max is still under warranty, visiting an Apple Store is advisable. Apple’s warranty covers hardware issues, including malfunctioning Home buttons.

Conclusion

A broken iPhone Home button need not spell disaster. Embrace the solutions discussed and try the best solution available. Enable AssistiveTouch, recalibrate the Home button, clean the area, or even visit an Apple Store if under warranty.

For a comprehensive fix, consider Dr.Fone Screen - Unlock iOS if data loss is a concern. The tool can easily handle unlocking an iPhone without a functioning Home button. It ensures a hassle-free experience. Pick the method that meets your needs best, and regain full access to your device. The power to unlock an iPhone without a Home button is within your grasp.

Tips: Are you searching for a powerful Screen Unlock tool? No worries as Dr.Fone is here to help you. Download it and start a seamless unlock experience!

How To Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without Swiping Up? 6 Ways

Part 1: What’s Swipe Up To Unlock on iPhone?

The Swipe Up Unlock function has been a fundamental aspect of iPhone functionality for a long time. It enables swift access to your phone by swiping upward from the screen’s bottom. This gesture grants entry to all your applications and data on your Apple iPhone XS Max. It was initially introduced to replace the physical Home button. However, it significantly simplified the user experience with iPhones.

It streamlined various tasks without the need for excessive button pressing. Moreover, its simplicity and speed became vital in how individuals utilized their iPhones. Yet, as preferences evolve, not everyone finds the exclusive Swipe Up Unlock feature appealing. Hence, exploring alternative methods to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max is advisable.

Part 2: Why Do You Need To Swipe Up to Unlock on iPhone?

Swipe up to unlock the iPhone holds significant importance in its user interface and accessibility. This intuitive gesture serves as the primary means of gaining access to the Apple iPhone XS Max device. Here are several reasons why the Swipe Up to Unlock iPhone feature has been a cornerstone:

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

The swipe gesture replaced the physical Home button, simplifying the unlocking process. Users could effortlessly swipe up from the bottom of the screen. It eliminates the need for pressing multiple buttons to access their devices.

2. Streamlined Navigation

Beyond unlocking the iPhone, the swipe gesture also allowed for quick navigation to the home screen. This streamlined access enabled users to jump straight into their apps, messages, or other functions.

3. Visual Aesthetics and User Experience

Apple’s design philosophy often revolves around clean, intuitive interfaces. The swipe up to unlock gesture aligns smoothly with this philosophy. It contributes to a visually appealing and user-friendly experience.

4. Security and Privacy

The gesture served as a security measure, preventing accidental or unauthorized access to the iPhone. Moreover, users can confidently rely on this unlocking method to safeguard their personal data.

Part 3: 6 Common Ways To Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up

For an extended period, the primary method to unlock an iPhone involved swiping up. Nonetheless, if you wish to explore alternative methods, it’s entirely feasible. Various methods have emerged over time to open the Apple iPhone XS Max without swiping up.

Method 1: Unlock iPhone without Swiping Up with Enable Back Tap

With the debut of iOS 14, Apple unveiled an innovative feature called Back Tap. It provides users with a method to engage with their iPhones by tapping the Apple iPhone XS Max device’s rear surface. This innovative functionality can be configured to perform various actions. It includes unlocking the phone without a swiping-up gesture. Follow these steps to set up and use the Back Tap feature for unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max:

Step 1. To start, access the “Settings” on your iOS device. Once there, scroll down until you locate the “Accessibility” option and tap on it. On the following screen, select “Touch” to access Touch settings under the “Physical and Motor” section.

access touch in accessibility

Step 2. On the following screen, scroll down to the bottom and press “Back Tap.” Now, either choose “Double Tap” or “Triple Tap” and select “Lock Screen” from the options under the “System” section.

enable back tap to lock screen

Method 2: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up Using iPhone Screen Unlocker: Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

If you’ve forgotten the passcode for your Apple iPhone XS Max and are unable to access it anymore, there is no need to panic. We have the perfect tool for you that can unlock any lock on your screen in a few moments. The tool we are talking about is Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) , an industry leader in smartphones. Dr.Fone, a pioneering tool for iOS lock screen removal, assists in unlocking various iPhone/iPad/iPod touch lock screens.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up!

  • Simple, click-through, process.
  • Unlock screen passwords from all iPhones and iPads.
  • No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
  • Supports iPhone 15 /iPhone 14 /iPhone 13, iPhone 12, … and the latest iOS version fully!New icon

4,395,218 people have downloaded it

It can handle 4-digit / 6-digit passcodes, custom numeric codes, alphanumeric passcodes, Face ID, Touch ID, Screen Time Passcodes, and more within minutes. Wondershare Dr.Fone also offers a swift and simple iCloud activation lock removal feature within its iPhone unlocking capabilities.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

  1. Capable of bypassing Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Screen Time restrictions without causing any data loss.
  2. Compatible with iOS 17/iPadOS 17 and iPhone 15, ensuring its functionality with the latest Apple OS.
  3. Offers a simple 3-step procedure, making it accessible even for users without technical expertise.

Steps To Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Here is how to open your Apple iPhone XS Max without swiping up with the help of Wondershare Dr.Fone:

Step 1: Navigate to Unlock iOS Screen

Download and install Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer. Go to “Toolbox,” tap “Screen Unlock,” and finally choose “iOS” to access the screen unlock tools. Once the window appears, choose the “Unlock iOS Screen” button to proceed with unlocking your iOS device’s screen. In the following screen, click “Start” to begin the process of unlocking your iOS device.

access screen unlock within toolbox

Step 2: Initiate the iDevice into Recovery Mode

After this step, enter Recovery Mode on your iDevice by following the specific on-screen instructions. Once your iDevice is in Recovery Mode, the system automatically identifies and displays the “Device Model.” You can make adjustments to the model if necessary and choose the “System Version” as per your needs. When finished, click on “Start” to initiate the unlocking process for your device’s screen.

follow on-screen instructions

Step 3: Successfully Unlock Your Locked iPhone

The screen will showcase the download progress of the iOS firmware on the platform. Once the iOS firmware download is completed, it undergoes verification. Proceed by selecting the “Unlock Now” button to initiate the unlocking process. A prompt window will appear, requesting confirmation for the process. Enter the necessary code and tap on “Unlock” to proceed. Upon successful unlocking of the iDevice, click “Done” to complete the process.

lock screen removal process completed

Method 3: Unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max Without Swiping Up via Touch ID/Face ID

Apple’s advanced biometric authentication systems, Touch ID and Face ID, are also reliable options. These offer smooth and secure methods to unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max 11 without swiping up. The following are the models that support Touch ID and Face ID:

Models with Touch ID

  • iPhone SE (2022)
  • iPhone SE (2020)
  • iPhone SE (2016)
  • iPhone 8 Plus
  • iPhone 8
  • iPhone 7 Plus
  • iPhone 7
  • iPhone 6s Plus
  • iPhone 6s
  • iPhone 6 Plus
  • iPhone 6
  • iPhone 5s

Models with Face ID

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 15 Pro
  • iPhone 15 Plus
  • iPhone 15
  • iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • iPhone 14 Pro
  • iPhone 14 Plus
  • iPhone 14
  • iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13 Pro
  • iPhone 13 mini
  • iPhone 13
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • iPhone 12 mini
  • iPhone 12
  • iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11 Pro
  • iPhone 11
  • iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XS
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone X

Method 4: Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Max Without Swiping Up via AutoUnlockX

AutoUnlockX is a tweak designed for jailbroken iPhones. It enhances the Apple iPhone XS Max device’s unlocking experience by automatically bypassing the lock screen. That is when certain conditions are met. Jailbreaking involves bypassing the software restrictions imposed by Apple. Here are the steps to iPhone 11 unlock screen without swiping:

Step 1. Begin by adding an external repository like Sileo or Cydia, which will serve as an emulator. Remember, it won’t be automatically added to your applications; you’ll need to do this manually. So, download the repository from the SparkDev website (it’s not available on the App Store). Head to the “Tweaks” tab, find “AutoUnlockX,” and download it to your device.

Step 2. Following this, go to “Sources” in your Apple iPhone XS Max’s Settings, select “Edit,” and manually add the external repo to Cydia or Sileo. Open Sileo or Cydia and navigate to the “Search” page. In the search bar, type “AutoUnlockX.” Once the tweak appears, select it, and then tap “Get (Sileo)” or “Install (Cydia).”

Step 3. Confirm the selected repo by tapping the “Confirm” option and allow the tweak to install. Once installed, tap “Restart SpringBoard” to complete the download. After your Apple iPhone XS Max resprings, proceed to enable AutoUnlockX.

Step 4. Open Settings, tap on “App,” and then select “AutoUnlockX.” Toggle on “Enable Auto Unlock.” Customize other settings as desired by tapping on them to turn them on or off.

Step 5. When finished, tap the “Respring” option at the bottom to apply your changes. At last, unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max using your Face ID effortlessly.

Method 5: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up via Voice Control

Utilizing Voice Control to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max offers a hands-free approach to accessing your device. It is especially helpful for individuals with accessibility needs. There are situations where manual interaction might be challenging. Here’s a guide on how to set up and use “Voice Control” to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max:

Step 1. Open the Settings app on your Apple iPhone XS Max and scroll down to tap “Accessibility.” On the following screen, press “Voice Control” to proceed further.

navigate to voice control feature

Step 2. To set up voice control, you need to ensure that the “Voice Control” option is toggled on. After activating Voice Control, use a voice command to unlock your device.

toggle on voice control option

Method 6: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up with Switch Control

Utilizing Switch Control is an excellent accessibility feature on iOS devices. It allows users to interact with their iPhones using adaptive switches or the Apple iPhone XS Max device’s screen itself. Moreover, it can provide an alternative way to navigate the Apple iPhone XS Max and access the Home screen. You no longer have to rely solely on the conventional swipe gesture. Here is how you can set up switch control to iPhone swipe to unlock:

Step 1. Access your Apple iPhone XS Max’s Settings, then tap on “Accessibility.” Now find and select “Switch Control,” and within it, navigate to “Switches.” Now, tap “Add New Switch” and choose “Camera.”

add a new switch

Step 2. Set Left Head Movement and Right Head Movement separately to “Home.” This action will lock the screen when tilting your head left or right. Now go back to “Recipes” in Switch Control, select “Edit,” and delete all existing recipes.

remove existing recipes

Step 3. Set “Scanning Style” to “Single Switch Step Scanning” and adjust “Dwell Time” to the shortest duration. Then, turn off the remaining settings under Switch Control.

reduce dwell time as needed

Step 4. Save your switch, return to Accessibility Settings, and locate “Accessibility Shortcut.” Now, set triple-clicking the side button to activate “Switch Control.” On the home screen, triple-click the Side button, as previously set, to activate the switch on your Apple iPhone XS Max. Now, lock the Apple iPhone XS Max screen and then wake the Apple iPhone XS Max device without looking at it.

set switch control as accessibility shortcut

Conclusion

To conclude, we have explored different ways to unlock iPhones without swiping up beyond just using the usual swipe-up method. We’ve talked about using your fingerprint or face to unlock, using voice commands or special controls. The swipe-up gesture on iPhones is great, but these other methods give you more options.

While these methods are helpful, there’s a software called Wondershare Dr.Fone that’s particularly useful for iPhone issues. It does things like recovering data, fixing problems with your phone, and unlocking it when you can’t get in. Dr.Fone has a feature called “Screen Unlock” that was specifically made to help with different ways of unlocking iPhones.

How to Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesn’t Work

man wearing apple watch with Apple iPhone XS Max by him

There are plenty of reasons why Apple devices are in such high demand. The quality of the products is unquestionable – few can argue the superior quality of the Apple iPhone XS Max’s camera, for instance. Almost all devices are long-lasting. They have a great resale value. They offer cutting-edge features.

However, perhaps the greatest advantage of Apple products is just how well they integrate with one another and work together.

With a quick little tap, you can have your Apple iPhone XS Max’s camera working as your Mac’s webcam. You can use your iPad as a second Mac display. Take calls using any device.

Moreover, you might be able to use the Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Now, you cannot just unlock any Apple iPhone XS Max with your Watch. The devices must be paired, and you’ll need to follow a few steps to enable this option. Here’s how to unlock your phone using your Apple Watch like a pro.

Part 1. Can I Use an Apple Watch To Unlock My Apple iPhone XS Max?

phone, earphones, and apple watch on a table

The Apple iPhone XS Max face ID is one of the simplest, most practical ways to unlock your phone. While you’ll need a passcode just as another security layer, you won’t have to worry about someone else breaking in if they know it, going through your messages, or collecting your private information.

With face ID, only you can unlock your phone, sign in to your favorite apps, and even authenticate purchases.

The problem is that neither face ID nor traditional passcodes aren’t always the most convenient option. If you wear sunglasses, safety goggles, a face mask, or other face coverings and can’t take them off for some reason, face ID won’t work. If you have gloves on and can’t type in your passcode, your passcodes won’t work.

What could work is your Apple Watch.

Depending on the Apple Watch version you own and your Apple iPhone XS Max model, you could use your watch to unlock your phone in any circumstances. It’s easy, secure, and convenient, above all else.

Part 2. Requirements for Unlocking Apple iPhone XS Max With Apple Watch

unlock requirements

Unfortunately, not every Apple iPhone XS Max can be unlocked with your Apple Watch, and not every Apple Watch can unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max. Both devices must meet some requirements before you can adjust your settings to enable this option.

To be able to use your Apple Watch to unlock your phone with the utmost ease, you’ll need:

  • An Apple iPhone XS Max with Face ID – Apple iPhone XS Max X and newer models;
  • iOS 14.5 and newer versions;
  • An Apple Watch series 3 and newer models;
  • watchOS 7.4 and newer versions.

Additional requirements you’ll need to meet include:

  • Your Apple iPhone XS Max and Apple Watch need to be paired;
  • Both devices need to have WiFi and Bluetooth turned on (but a connection to a WiFi network isn’t necessary);
  • You need to have a passcode on your Apple Watch;
  • Wrist detection on your watch needs to be turned on;
  • The watch needs to be on your wrist and unlocked.

You’ll also need to wear items such as sunglasses, face coverings, ski masks, or others that prevent you from using your Apple iPhone XS Max Face ID.

Part 3. How To Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max With an Apple Watch

a cyclist wearing an apple watch

If you meet all the aforementioned criteria, setting up the feature to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max using an Apple Watch is easy. You’ll just have to follow a few steps:

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcodeon your Apple iPhone XS Max;

iphone face id and passcode settings

  • Step 2: Type in your passcode;
  • Step 3: Find and enable Unlock with Apple Watch.

Remember that your Apple Watch’s wrist detection must be turned on for this option to work. When you tap to enable Unlock with Apple Watch, if your wrist detection isn’t turned on, you’ll get a prompt on your phone asking you to turn it on.

You can turn on wrist detection on your watch by following these steps:

  • Step 4: Go to Settingson your Apple Watch;
  • Step 5: Tap on the Passcode;
  • Step 6: Toggle Wrist Detection

apple watch wrist detection settings

Now that you’ve enabled the option to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max using your Apple Watch, it’s time to simply start using the feature. To unlock your phone, you’ll need to:

  • Have your Apple Watch on your wrist, unlocked;
  • Tap on your Apple iPhone XS Max or raise it to your face to activate it;
  • Glance at your phone while wearing a face mask, sunglasses, or another item that’s preventing you from using Face ID;
  • Swipe up on your phone’s screen.

Your Apple Watch will send an alert when you’ve used it to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max. If you accidentally unlock your phone, simply tap on the Lock Apple iPhone XS Max on the screen of your watch to lock it.

However, remember that the next time you want to use your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max, you’ll first need to type in your passcode.

Part 4. What To Do if You Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Max With a Watch

person wearing face mask unlocking their Apple iPhone XS Max

Generally speaking, unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max with an Apple Watch should be a simple, seamless task. Unfortunately, though, that’s not always the case. A glitch or a bug could be preventing you from enjoying this feature, so take a look at a few things you could try to fix it.

1. Check All Settings & Reconfigure

As mentioned earlier, there are a few requirements that your devices need to meet to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max with your Apple Watch.

If you’re using the correct versions of Apple iPhone XS Max (iPhone X, iOS 14.5 and newer) and Apple Watch (series 3, watchOS 7.4 and newer), try to reconfigure your settings.

Make sure that you have:

  • A passcode on your watch;
  • Wrist detection turned on;
  • Feature Unlock with Apple Watchturned on on your Apple iPhone XS Max.

If all the settings are correct, try one of the following options.

2. Restart Your WiFi/Bluetooth Connection

Your Apple iPhone XS Max and your Apple Watch need to have both WiFi and Bluetooth turned on. If they’re turned on on both devices, try turning them off and back on again to restart the connection.

Remember, you only need WiFi and Bluetooth on but don’t need to be connected to a WiFi network.

If the problem persists, you could also restart your devices and try again.

3. Reset Your Face ID

In some instances, it’s the Face ID feature that’s causing trouble, so you might want to try and reset it. It’s much easier than it may sound, you just need to follow the next few steps:

  • Step 1: Go to your Apple iPhone XS Max’s Settings;
  • Step 2: Select Face ID & Passcode;
  • Step 3: Tap Reset Face ID.

When you tap on this, you’ll need to go through the process of setting your Face ID as usual. You’ll need to type in your passcode, hold your Apple iPhone XS Max in front of you (in portrait orientation), tap to get started, and put your face in the provided frame.

Move your face to complete the circle, then tap on Continue. Repeat the face scan process the second time and select Done.

4. Do a System Repair on Your Apple iPhone XS Max

If your Apple Watch unlock is still misbehaving, you might need to do a full system repair. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to use verified apps like Dr.Fone to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Dr.Fone Apple iPhone XS Max system repair is designed to be fast, efficient, and safe. It can repair virtually any system glitch in less than five minutes, ensuring your phone operates seamlessly.

To perform a standard system repair with Dr.Fone, follow the next few steps:

  • Step 1: Download and launch Dr.Fone on your computer;
  • Step 2: From the Toolboxon your left-hand side, select System Repair;

unlock-iphone-with-watch-8.jpg

  • Step 3: Connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to your PC using a cable connection;
  • Step 4: Select your device type in the new window that opens;
  • Step 5: Select iOS repair;

dr.fone ios repair

  • Step 6: Select Standard Repair Mode;
  • Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions and select Enter Recovery Mode;
  • (Alternatively, select Guideif your phone is unresponsive);
  • Step 8: Select the iOS firmware you want to download and install on your device;
  • Step 9: Wait for the download to finish, then select Repair Now;
  • Step 10: Wait until the process is complete, then select Done.

dr.fone finishing ios repair

If it was a system mistake preventing you from unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max with your Apple Watch, the option should be functioning well after the Dr.Fone iOS repair.

5. Reset Network Settings

If the problem wasn’t due to a system glitch, you should try resetting your Apple iPhone XS Max’s network settings. The process is simple, just:

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network;
  • Step 2: Type in your passcode.

Resetting your network settings will clear out data from your internet, local network, and devices, including WiFi passwords, some Bluetooth connections, and more. However, your paired devices, such as the Apple Watch, shouldn’t be removed.

6. Reset Your Watch and Pair It Again

Finally, if you’re still experiencing issues, you might need to reset your Apple Watch and pair it with your Apple iPhone XS Max again.

It’s all quite simple:

  • Step 1: Press and hold the power button;
  • Step 2: Drag the slider under Power offto the right;
  • Step 3: Press and hold the power button to turn the Apple iPhone XS Max device back on.

To perform a hard reset, simultaneously press and hold the power button and digital crown.

Conclusion

Using your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max is convenient when you cannot use the Face ID feature. It allows you to seamlessly unlock your phone when wearing sunglasses, goggles, face masks, or other face coverings that prevent the Face ID from working.

Enabling this option is a straightforward process, and if there’s ever a glitch, there are several options you could try to repair it.


  • Title: How To Open Your iPhone XS Max Without a Home Button | Dr.fone
  • Author: Amelia
  • Created at : 2024-07-15 05:50:55
  • Updated at : 2024-07-16 05:50:55
  • Link: https://iphone-unlock.techidaily.com/how-to-open-your-iphone-xs-max-without-a-home-button-drfone-by-drfone-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
On this page
How To Open Your iPhone XS Max Without a Home Button | Dr.fone