3 Easy Ways to Factory Reset a Locked Apple iPhone 12 Without iTunes

There are a few causes that you might need to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. Perhaps you forgot your passcode and can’t seem to remember it, no matter how many times you try. Maybe you’re selling your Apple iPhone 12 and want to ensure that all your data is wiped from the Apple iPhone 12 device before handing it over to someone else.

Whatever the reason, a few different ways can help you factory reset locked iPhones without iTunes.

Here are some ways to finish the factory reset on a locked iPhone without iTunes.

Let’s get started.

Easy App to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

If you search for a simple and effective way to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes, you should check out Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock. This professional iOS screen unlocks tool can help you erase all kinds of data from your Apple iPhone 12 and help you unlock your device within a few minutes.

For this, you will need to follow the steps given below.

Step #1: Download and Install Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on a Computer or Mac:

First, download Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on your computer or Mac. Once the software is downloaded, install it on your system and launch it.

Step #2: Select Screen Unlock:

On the main interface of Dr.Fone, you need to select “ Screen Unlock. “ You may see many options, but you will have to choose Screen Unlock because it will allow you to remove the passcode from your locked iPhone.

Step #3: Get your Apple iPhone 12 in Recovery Mode and Make it connected to the Computer:

You must put your Apple iPhone 12 in recovery mode and then connect it to the computer using a USB cable. If you don’t know how to put your Apple iPhone 12 into recovery mode, don’t worry, you will all the instructions on the screen.

Once Dr. Fone detects your device, you will see the following screen.

Step #4: Choose the Appropriate Firmware and Download it:

After your Apple iPhone 12 is in recovery mode, you need to select the appropriate firmware for your device. Once you have selected the firmware, click on the “ Download “ button to start downloading it.

Step #5: Reset your Apple iPhone 12:

Once the firmware is downloaded, you can click on the “Unlock Now” button to begin resetting your device.

Your locked iPhone has now been successfully unlocked without iTunes after the reset process has been completed.

The process will take a few minutes if you have a strong internet connection because the Firmware may take some time to download. So be patient and wait for the process to be completed.

3 Simple Methods to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

Besides the above-given method, other methods can also help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes.

These methods are as follows:

Method #1: Factory reset via the Find My feature on your device

Resetting your locked iPhone without iTunes is one of the most effective methods. You can use this method if you have set up the “ Find My iPhone “ function on your device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to icloud.com from any web browser and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Choose the Apple iPhone 12 device you wish to erase and click “Erase iPhone.”

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Now that your device has been erased, you can reset it as a new one.

Method #2: Use the Find My feature via another device to remotely factory reset your device (your apple id, password, and Internet required)

This is another method you can use if you have the “ Find My iPhone “ feature on your device. You can use this method to remotely factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes by using another iOS device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: On another iOS device, go to iCloud and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Click on “Erase iPhone” after selecting the Apple iPhone 12 device you want to erase.

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click on the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Your device will now be erased, and you can set it up as a new device.

Method #3: Enter the Recovery Mode of the Finder

If you want to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes and any data loss, then this is the method you should use. This method will put your device into recovery mode, and then you can restore it from a previous backup.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Finder on your computer and connect your Apple iPhone 12.

Step 2: Click “ General “ and then “ Reset. “

Step 3: Choose the “ Erase All Content and Settings “ option and confirm by clicking “ Erase Now “.

Your device will now be erased, and it’ll become a new device.

FAQs

1. Can a Factory Reset Bypass the Lock screen Passcode on iPhone?

Yes. A factory reset will bypass the lock screen passcode on your Apple iPhone 12 and allow you to access it without a passcode. However, all your data will disappear, so make sure you have a backup.

2. Can I Factory Reset my iPhone without Losing the Data?

No. If you want a factory reset, all your data will be erased, so make a backup before proceeding.

But if you want your Apple iPhone 12 set to return to the default without losing your data, you can do a “Reset All Settings.” This will not touch your data but will return all the default settings.

3. What is the Difference Between a Soft Reset and a Hard Reset?

A soft reset is when you restart your device, and a hard reset is when you factory reset all the settings on your device and start fresh. A factory reset is a type of hard reset without losing the data.

4. How do I force my iPhone 6 to factory reset with buttons?

To force your Apple iPhone 12 to factory reset with buttons, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Press and hold the “ Sleep/Wake “ button and the “ Home “ button simultaneously for about 10 seconds.

Step 2: After 10 seconds have passed, release the “ Sleep/Wake “ button but keep holding the “ Home “ button.

Step 3: Keep holding the “ Home “ button until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.

Step 4: Here, you will be in recovery mode, and now you can reset your Apple iPhone 12.

Your device will now be reset, and you will have a phone like a new one.

5. How can I get into a locked iPhone?

If you have lost the passcode of your Apple iPhone 12, then you can use the Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock tool to factory reset your device. To do this, you need to proceed with the steps given above. They are easy to follow and will help you reset your device without risk.

The Bottom Line

These are some of the most effective methods that can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. You can use any of these methods to reset your device and get rid of the lock screen.

However, if you want to factory reset your Apple iPhone 12 because you have forgotten your passcode, we recommend using Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock app because it is the most effective and safe method.

This app can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes in just a few minutes, and it is very easy to use. So, if you want to reset your device without any data loss, we recommend using this app.

How to Unlock Apple iPhone 12 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 12’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 12’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 12.

Now, you cannot just unlock any Apple iPhone 12 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 12?

The Apple iPhone 12 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 12 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 12 With Apple Watch

Unfortunately, not every Apple iPhone 12 can be unlocked with your Apple Watch, and not every Apple Watch can unlock your Apple iPhone 12. 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 12 with Face ID – Apple iPhone 12 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 12 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 12 Face ID.

Part 3. How To Unlock Apple iPhone 12 With an Apple Watch

If you meet all the aforementioned criteria, setting up the feature to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 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 12;

• 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 12 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 12 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 12. If you accidentally unlock your phone, simply tap on the Lock Apple iPhone 12 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 12, you’ll first need to type in your passcode.

Part 4. What To Do if You Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone 12 With a Watch

Generally speaking, unlocking your Apple iPhone 12 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 12 with your Apple Watch.

If you’re using the correct versions of Apple iPhone 12 (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 12.

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

2. Restart Your WiFi/Bluetooth Connection

Your Apple iPhone 12 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 12’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 12 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 12

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 12 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 12 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 12 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 12’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 12 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 12 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 12 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.

How To Change Your Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12 With or Without Password

The Apple ID is a unique identifier used to log in to all Apple services, including iCloud, the App Store, Apple Music, and more. You can track purchases and manage your account settings through your Apple ID. But what if you need a new one for security or moving to a new location?

Whatever the reason, learning how to change your Apple ID on your iPad is straightforward. And this guide will show the steps and provide some tips at the end.

Part 1: Reasons Why You Might Need To Change Your Apple ID

Your iOS devices contain most of your digital data. That includes your contact list, email, financial information, and social media passwords. All this data is valuable - others can use it to do identity theft, fraud, and other crimes.

If you feel the existing Apple ID isn’t secure enough, it’s a good idea to change your Apple ID on your iPad or other devices. Aside from this, there are a few scenarios where you might find yourself needing to change your details:

You No Longer Use the Email Address or Phone Number Associated With Your Apple ID

Life moves fast, and sometimes contact info changes. If the email or phone number linked to your Apple ID becomes outdated, it’s a good idea to update it. That way, you won’t miss out on vital notifications or have trouble recovering your account if needed.

You Want To Simplify Your Online Life

If you have multiple email addresses, you may want to consolidate them into one email address. It can make it easier to manage and remember your online accounts, including your Apple ID.

You Are Relocating to a Different Region or Country

Moving abroad? Your Apple ID may need an update to match your new location. It ensures access to region-specific apps and services. You need to have a few things in place before you can do that: add a payment method for your new location, cancel your subscriptions, and spend your store credit. Aside from that, you will also need to change your Apple ID country or region.

Changing your Apple ID can be smart, ensuring your digital life stays up-to-date, secure, and tailored to your needs. It’s not complicated, and it’s all about making your Apple experience better suited to you. So, go ahead and learn how to change your Apple ID on your iPad in the following sections.

Part 2: How To Change Apple ID on iPad Without Losing Data?

If you receive a notification from Apple about suspicious account activity, it’s time to act. Before you learn how to change the Apple ID on an iPad – for yourself or others, here are some common signs of a compromised Apple ID:

• A login attempt from a device or location that you don’t recognize
• A password change that you didn’t know about
• Unauthorized messages or purchases
• A password that no longer works
• Unfamiliar account details

If you suspect unauthorized access to your Apple ID, below is what you can do.

Steps To Change Your Apple ID to a Different Email Address

If you are worried about losing data such as purchases and contacts, don’t worry. You can update your Apple ID account anytime without disrupting your data. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change your Apple ID email address. Just sign out of all Apple services and devices that use your account first.

• Step 1: Visit the Apple ID official website and log in to your account credentials.

• Step 2: Once logged in, select Apple ID in the Sign-In and Security section.

• Step 3: From the Apple ID pop-up window, enter your new Apple ID in the Change your Apple ID text field.

• Step 4: Select Change Apple ID to proceed.
• Step 5: Check your email to get a verification code sent by Apple to ensure that only you can change it to a third-party email address. Enter the code to complete the update.

Step 6: Sign in to Apple services such as iCloud and Messages, using your new Apple ID to continue sharing with others.

Steps To Change Your Apple ID to a Different Mobile Number

Do you want to use Your Apple iPhone 12 number as your Apple ID username? It’s possible, but it depends on your location, how you created your account, and what version of iOS you’re using.

If you’re in China mainland or India, and you’re using iOS 11 or later, you can create a new Apple ID with Your Apple iPhone 12 number as the username. However, Your Apple iPhone 12 number must be (+86) or (+91). So, if you’re thinking of, “How can I change my Apple ID on my iPad if it’s a mobile phone number?” then this guide is for you:

• Step 1: Log out of all Apple services and devices currently signed in with your Apple ID, except the one you’re using to change your Apple ID.
• Step 2: On your iPad, go to Settings > [your account name] > Sign-in & Security.
• Step 3: Tap Edit next to Email & Phone Numbers.

• Step 4: Go to the Delete icon next to your mobile number and follow the directions given.
• Step 5: Enter the code sent to the mobile number you added as your new Apple ID to verify it.
• Step 6: Log into all Apple services using your new Apple ID.

Even if you can’t change your Apple ID on your iPad to a mobile phone number, you can still associate it with a phone number on your account page. It means you can use a different email address or mobile phone number to log in to your Apple ID. See the next sections for more information on the workarounds you can try.

Part 3: What To Do if You Cannot Change Your Apple ID on iPad?

Changing your Apple ID on an iPad is usually easy. However, there can be setbacks during the process. Now, here’s what to do if you find yourself unable to do it and why it might be happening:

Try Again Later

If you encounter errors during the process, give it a little time and try again. Mayne it is because you changed your Apple ID on your iPad to an iCloud email address within 30 days.

Check if Apple ID Is Already in Use

Apple IDs are unique, and you can’t have two identical ones. If you’re trying to change your Apple ID to one that’s already in use, you’ll hit a roadblock. Ensure that the new Apple ID you want isn’t already taken. Remove it from the family member’s account if they are using it.

Your Apple ID Is an Email Address

If your current Apple ID is an email address, you won’t be able to change it to a mobile phone number directly. Instead, you can add an email or phone number to your account for contact purposes.

If you’ve addressed these issues and still can’t change your Apple ID, don’t worry. Apple customer support is available to assist you with account-related challenges. Contact them for guidance and solutions tailored to your situation.

However, if you can’t change your Apple ID on your iPad because you forgot or don’t have access to the password, you can use a third-party tool such as Dr.Fone. This tool is easy to use and can help you unlock your iPad and remove the Apple ID in a few clicks.

Part 4: Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone Screen Unlock (iOS) tool is your go-to solution for unlocking iOS devices without a passcode. The best part? It is easy to use for users of all technical backgrounds. With Dr.Fone, you can unlock iOS screens protected by 4 to 6-digit passcodes, Face ID, Touch ID, and more.

But it doesn’t stop there; Dr.Fone can also help remove the iCloud activation lock, unlock Apple ID without a password, and much more. This powerful tool is a lifesaver for iOS users, supporting the latest iPadOS 17, iOS 17, and iPhone 14.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Apple ID on iPad Using Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone can bypass the Find My/Find My iPhone feature to remove your Apple ID from your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch. Follow the steps below to learn how to use this feature on your iOS device.

• Step 1: Get Wondershare Dr.Fone from their website and install it on your computer.

• Step 2: From the app’s Toolbox homepage, click Screen Unlock, and select iOS.

• Step 3: Select Remove AppleID from the available Screen Unlock tools.

• Step 4: Connect your iPad or other iOS device to your computer, then click Unlock Now to continue.

• Step 5: Click Yes to confirm your device has a screen lock. Otherwise, it won’t work.

• Step 6: Enable the Two-Factor Authentication on your iPad so you can unlock your Apple ID. Then, click Yes to proceed.

• Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions to put your iPad in Recovery Mode.

• Step 8: The next screen will demonstrate the Device Model information. Select an option from the System Version dropdown list and click Start.

• Step 9: The iOS firmware will start downloading, and you can see the progress on the next screen. If you’re experiencing slow download speeds, click Copy to get the link and download it.

• Step 10: Review the Device Model and System Version, then click Unlock Now to proceed.

• Step 11: From the Warning dialogue box, enter the code shown in the text field, then click Unlock.

• Step 12: Wait and refrain from using your device while it’s connected to avoid a bricked device.

• Step 13: Once finished, click Done, then check your iPad. If your Apple ID is not unlocked, you may need to click Try again to restart.

Best Practices To Secure Your iOS Data

Changing your Apple ID on your iPad can be a great way to protect your privacy and security. However, it’s important to take steps to ensure that your iOS data remains safe during the process. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

• Backup Your Files

Before you change your Apple ID on your iPad, create a backup of your data so you don’t lose important files. You can create a backup using iCloud or Dr.Fone.

Dr.Fone also allows you to view the contents of your backup before you restore it, so you can ensure that you’re getting back exactly what you want. This way, you can restore your data to your new Apple ID if needed.

• Password Check

Review your current passwords. Change any weak or compromised ones, including your Apple ID password, and never share it with anyone.

• Avoid Sharing an Apple ID

It’s best practice for each family member to have their own Apple ID. Sharing one can lead to problems with app purchases, data syncing, and privacy.

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

If not already enabled, turn on 2FA for an extra layer of security. It’s simple and highly effective.

Conclusion

Changing your Apple ID on your iPad or other iOS devices is a simple process that can help you protect your privacy and information. With the tips above, you can ensure your iOS data is safe and secure during the switch.

And if you need to remove your Apple ID without a password, Dr.Fone is a good option. Dr.Fone is a powerful iOS toolkit that can help you with various phone solutions. It’s easy to use and can help you solve mobile problems in just a few minutes.