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

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?

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

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

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;

• 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

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

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;

• 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;

• 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.

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.

Apple iPhone XS Max Backup Password Never Set But Still Asking? Here’s the Fix

Part 1: Why Do iTunes Ask Me for iPhone Backup Password?

When you use iTunes to create a backup, the backup will probably have a password that iTunes automatically create. This is for privacy reasons. Hence, it might ask for an iTunes backup password never set by you!

In most cases, this occurs when the Encrypt Backup option is activated. As an official iOS feature, its purpose is to provide iOS users with the iTunes backup encryption for further security.

Unfortunately, this capability may also become problematic if you inadvertently take a backup without being able to provide the password. For example, you may have to enter the password for your Apple iPhone XS Max backup unlocking never set by you.

But the good news is you have some possible fixes. So, let’s talk about them.

Part 2: 4 Possible Ways to Fix Asking for iPhone Backup Password

Many iPhone users have problems with iTunes when they back up their devices.

One of the most common issues is that people are asked for their iPhone backup password never set, but they need to know what it is. This can be frustrating because you can only back up your device if you have the password.

There are a few possible ways to fix this problem. Try resetting your password or using a different computer to back up your device. You could also try using a third-party software tool like Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock.

1. Try all passwords you use on iPhone

When iTunes prompts you for an iPhone backup password never set, what should your initial course of action be?

To get out of this predicament in the simplest way possible, try entering every potential password you will likely have used. In most cases, individuals will use the same password for many accounts.

A significant possibility is that you encrypted the iTunes backup with the same password from the iCloud account.

Therefore, before doing anything further, try all passwords to configure your iTunes account. For example, try entering 0000, 123456, name123, or 1111.

2. Find the password from Keychain on macOS

You may also attempt to find the password for the iTunes backup using the keychain approach if you are working on a Mac.

The likelihood of success with this approach is relatively low. However, it is still worthwhile to try it, particularly if you have also synchronized your iTunes account with your Mac.

1. On your macOS, go to Utilities by clicking the Applications menu item. At this point, launch the Keychain Access app and look for your Apple iPhone XS Max backup.
2. To open a new dialogue box, double-click the most recent backup file, and you will see one appear before you.
3. On this page, choose Show Password to get the password for the Apple iPhone XS Max backup. However, you will first be prompted to provide the administrator password associated with your iCloud account to recover the password.

3. “Reset All Settings”

Resetting the password is another option at your disposal if you encounter the Apple iPhone XS Max backup password never set problem. How you do this will be different depending on the version of iOS that you have installed.

Here are what you can do with your iOS smartphone if it has iOS 11 or a later version:

Step 1: Unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max, and then open the Settings app on your device.

Step 2: After locating the General menu, go to the Reset menu and then hit the Reset All Settings button. Please confirm your action by providing the password for your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Step 3: Once the reset has been completed, your previous password will be deleted.

Step 4: The next thing you should do is take a fresh backup of your Apple iPhone XS Max using iTunes, and then establish a new password for the backup that iTunes creates.

You will need to use an alternative strategy, which includes a factory reset if you use an older version of the iOS firmware than iOS 11.

Step 1: Before continuing, it is highly recommended that you create a backup of the data on your Apple iPhone XS Max using iCloud.

Step 2: After you have opened the Settings app, go to the General menu, then to the Reset menu, and finally to the Erase All Content and Settings option.

Step 3: Confirm that you want to reset your Apple iPhone XS Max to factory settings, and wait until it is done.

Step 4: Once the factory data reset is finished, you must restore your iCloud backup. To do this, follow the steps for setting up iOS until you reach the Apps & Data option.

Step 5: Create a new backup in iTunes and change the password for the existing backup in iTunes.

You should be aware that resetting the Apple iPhone XS Max device to factory settings will not make your encrypted backups accessible again.

On the other hand, it does make it possible for you to generate a fresh backup in iTunes that is not encrypted.

4. Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock

First step: After installing Dr.Fone on your device, please run the program and look for the red button labeled “Screen Unlock.”

Step 2: While in the interface for Screen Unlock, navigate to the bottom right of the screen and tap on the feature labeled “Remove iTunes BackUp Encryption.” This will allow you to proceed.

Step 3: When brought to this screen, please use a USB cord to connect your iOS device to your personal computer. If Dr.Fone can identify this relationship, the following picture will appear for you to see.

Please read the following three notes carefully before clicking the “Remove Now” button:

• Check to ensure that “Find My iPhone” is not turned on.
• During this procedure, you should not launch “iTunes.”
• During the process, your Apple iPhone XS Max will restart.

Step 4: If you have an iTunes backup, Dr.Fone may automatically verify it and delete it. This encryption will be removed once the percentage on the progress meter reaches the end. This procedure won’t take a lot of time at all.

Step 5: The encryption of the iTunes backup has been successfully erased! Your backed-up data may be quickly restored, transferred, wiped clean, and backed up again. Hence, you can enter the password to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max backup never set in the first place!

The Bottom Line

There are four ways to fix the problem if iTunes keeps asking for your Apple iPhone XS Max backup password. The first method is to try all the passwords you use on your Apple iPhone XS Max. You can try finding the password from Keychain on macOS if this does not work. Another option is to “Reset All Settings” on your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Lastly, Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock is a program that can help you bypass the passcode and get into your backups. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to avoid the problem of iTunes backup password never set.

How To Unlock Stolen Apple iPhone XS Max In Different Conditionsin

Whenever your Apple iPhone XS Max gets stolen, multiple concerns involve accessing the Apple iPhone XS Max device and stored data. However, you might get it back after some time only to find that your stolen iPhone is now locked. The reasons could be long inactivity or someone who has entered the wrong passcode multiple times.

These cases most probably lead you to search for how to unlock stolen iPhones. For this, we have outlined the best methods to unlock stolen iPhones in this detailed guide. From using built-in old methods to third-party tools, this article covers it all with easy-to-follow steps.

Part 1. [Easiest Way] Unlock Easily With Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Now that we are familiar with certain scenarios, the first method that provides the simplest way to unlock a stolen iPhone is using Wondershare Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (iOS) . Users can easily continue using their locked device once they find it back after getting stolen. It is also possible that you might have activated Lost Mode by yourself to secure the data of the stolen device. But no need to worry, as Wondershare Dr.Fone offers a universal unlocking solution.

Wondershare Dr.Fone can unlock all lock screens, including Face ID and passcodes for the latest iOS models. If you have forgotten your Apple ID, this tool helps you remove it without any password. Even if MDM restrictions are imposed on your device, you can remove them without any data loss.

Notable Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. This tool is compatible with the latest iOS version and models, such as iPhone 15 and iOS 17.
2. Wondershare Dr.Fone removes iTunes backup encryption without asserting any damage to the data.
3. If your iOS device faces any carrier or SIM locks , Dr.Fone helps you remove it without any data loss.

Steps To Unlock Stolen iPhone With Wondershare Dr.Fone

After learning about the various iOS unlocking features Wondershare Dr.Fone offers, it is time to learn how to unlock a stolen iPhone. The steps below can help you quickly resolve the “I found my lost iPhone how do I unlock it” query:

• Step 1. Install Dr.Fone and Access the Built-In Toolbox

After installing Wondershare Dr.Fone, launch and navigate to the “Toolbox” section from the left panel. Continue to select “Screen Unlock” and continue by choosing “iOS” as the Apple iPhone XS Max device type.

• Step 2. Start Unlocking iOS Screen Lock

From the available features, proceed with “Unlock iOS Screen” and click “Start” to initiate the unlocking process.

• Step 3. Put iOS Into Recovery Mode and Specify Details

Moving on, you must put your iOS device into Recovery Mode. For this, follow the instructions on the screen based on your Apple iPhone XS Max model. Once it is in Recovery Mode successfully, you need to verify the Apple iPhone XS Max device details. Verify the “Device Model,” select the specific “System Version,” and continue to device unlocking by clicking “Start.”

• Step 4. Confirm the Unlocking Process and Successfully Execute

As the respective iOS firmware downloads, wait a few minutes and press the “Unlock” button. A prompt window appears where you have to enter the code “00000” to confirm the screen unlocking process. Once the iOS unlocking process is concluded, tap the “Done” button to check if you can access your Apple iPhone XS Max. Users with unsuccessful processes have the option to “Try Again” if required.

Part 2. [Old Ways] Using Siri To Unlock Stolen iPhone

It might come as a surprise to you that Siri can be used to unlock a lost iPhone. When you seek the answer to how to unlock a lost iPhone with Siri, you need to be aware of a very specific pointer. It is necessary to note that this method only works for devices operating between iOS 8 and 11.

This later turned out to be an anomaly in Siri that led users to unlock their iOS devices. If you have a device running within this iOS version range, learn how to unlock it with the provided steps:

• Step 1. Start by activating the Siri on your iOS device. Ask a simple question about time, like “What time is it?” Once Siri is active, a clock will display on your device screen. Next, access the clock and find the “World Clock” screen on your Apple iPhone XS Max. Tap the “+” button at the screen’s top right corner. Enter the name of any city in the “Search Bar,” tap Select All, and choose “Share.”

• Step 2. In the sharing options, look for “Messages.” As you access the next screen, type anything in the “To” section and continue to select it by navigating to the “Create a New Contact” option. When providing the contact details, tap the “Add Photo” button. Lead into the Photos app from there and swipe up the screen or press the “Home” button to access the home screen.

Part 3. [All Data Lost] Trying Recovery Mode for Unlocking Stolen iPhone

Another lifesaver method to unlock stolen iPhones is by utilizing the Recovery Mode. For this purpose, users need to connect their iPhones to their PC using iTunes . Its ability to facilitate data restoration makes it an effective method to unlock iOS devices. Rather than searching for “I bought a lost iPhone how do I unlock it,” simply follow the instructions below:

• Step 1. Connect your locked stolen Apple iPhone XS Max to the computer using a USB cable. To enter the Recovery Mode, you need to follow the steps below, depending on your Apple iPhone XS Max model:

• For iPhone 8 and Later: Press and release the “Volume Up” button, followed by the “Volume Down” button. Press and hold the “Side” button on the right side of the Apple iPhone XS Max device to activate Recovery Mode.

• For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold the “Volume Down” and “Side/Power” buttons to enable Recovery Mode in iPhone 7 models.

• For iPhone 6 and Earlier: To activate Recovery Mode, press and hold the “Home” and “Side/Power” buttons until the respective screen displays.

• Step 2: Once your Apple iPhone XS Max is in Recovery Mode, iTunes will detect it automatically. A pop-up window will appear within iTunes to detect some problems with the Apple iPhone XS Max device. Tap the “Restore” button to start the process and unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max by erasing all settings and content.

Part 4. Using Third-Party Unlocking Service To Unlock Stolen iPhone

In certain scenarios, when an iPhone gets stolen, it might enable the “Activation Lock.” This usually occurs to prevent the unauthorized access and usage of the Apple iPhone XS Max device. When you face such a situation, third-party unlocking services can help you bypass the Activation Lock.

These services include IMEIUnlockSIM , IMEICHECK.CO and Apple iPhone Unlock . Below, we have outlined steps for using Apple iPhone Unlock to help you with how do I unlock a stolen iPhone issue:

Instructions: First, access the Apple iPhone Unlock official website and enter the IMEI number of the Apple iPhone XS Max device. Select the particular iOS device model and continue to select “Remove Activation Lock.” Following this, review the order summary and pay the fee with the required option. Upon successful completion of payment, the service will contact you for instant unlocking within 24 hours.

Conclusion

Getting a stolen iPhone back is surely the best thing, but facing a device unlock situation worsens things. However, to help you with how to unlock a stolen iPhone, we have discussed 4 effective methods. Wondershare Dr.Fone is the best among these options. This screen unlock tool facilitates users with various screen unlocking options using the simplest methods.

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!

Also read: