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 Fix Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable Issue With Ease

The Apple iPhone 12 stands out as an impressive device that integrates technology and practicality. Nonetheless, even the most cutting-edge devices experience occasional setbacks. Among these, one major problem for iPhone users is the “iPhone Unavailable” message. This problem typically arises when many incorrect passcode attempts have locked the Apple iPhone 12 device. It renders the Apple iPhone 12 device inaccessible, displaying the “iPhone Unavailable” prompt.

Yet, worry not, for reliable methods exist to address this problem efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explore the best and proven techniques for how to fix iPhone unavailable. We will also walk you through step-by-step solutions and provide clear instructions to resolve your unavailable iPhone.

Part 1. iPhone is Unavailable: Explaining the Basics

The “iPhone Unavailable” issue is a distressing fix encountered by users. It occurs when their iPhone becomes unavailable with a black screen and inaccessible due to many incorrect passcode attempts. This problem arises as a security measure implemented by Apple. Its primary aim is to protect the data on the Apple iPhone 12 device and deter unauthorized access.

The iPhone’s security mechanism typically activates after six wrong attempts. It starts with making the Apple iPhone 12 unavailable for a specific period. The device becomes permanently locked when the incorrect code is entered consecutively for the 10th time. This lock manifests as the “iPhone Unavailable” message on the screen.

This acts as a shield against potential intruders trying to gain access by guessing or brute-forcing the passcode. However, this protective measure can affect users who forget their passcodes or insert incorrect entries mistakenly. For example, there are cases of children playing with the Apple iPhone 12 device, leading to accidental key presses. All of this makes learning how to unlock the Apple iPhone 12 unavailable an essential thing to learn.

Part 2. [Top Fix] Unlock iPhone Unavailable Without Lossing Data By Wondershare Dr.Fone

When faced with the “iPhone Unavailable” issue, the most common cause is forgetfulness. The other major cause is the accidental incorrect entries of the Apple iPhone 12 device’s passcode. This predicament leaves users locked out of their iPhones and functionalities. Wondershare Dr.Fone emerges as a leading solution to tackle this frustrating problem.

It is designed to address various iOS-related issues, including unlocking disabled iPhones. Dr.Fone offers a user-friendly approach to regaining access to your device. The tool offers a smooth process that bypasses the locked screen, allowing users to regain entry into their iPhones. It can remove all screen locks like passcode, password, Touch ID, and Face ID.

Key Highlights of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. You can remove the iCloud activation lock swiftly and effortlessly with Dr.Fone’s iPhone unlocking function.
2. It effectively bypasses the Apple ID lock permanently, irrespective of the activation of Find My/Find My iPhone on the Apple iPhone 12 device.
3. Fone empowers you to bypass MDM restrictions from your device without data loss or the necessity to jailbreak your device.

Steps To Unlock Your Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable With Wondershare Dr.Fone

With Dr.Fone, even users with no tech prowess can easily unlock their devices. Below is the guide to iPhone unavailable how to fix using Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS):

Here is a video for you to learn how to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 screen:

• Step 1. Dr.Fone Installation and iOS Screen Unlock Setup

After installing Wondershare Dr.Fone onto your computer, launch it. Proceed by accessing “Toolbox,” followed by “Screen Unlock.” Now choose “iOS” as the Apple iPhone 12 device type and choose the “Unlock iOS Screen” option. Click “Start” on the next screen to start the unlocking process for your iOS device.

• Step 2. iDevice Recovery Mode and Firmware Download

Afterward, place your iDevice into Recovery Mode by following the on-screen instructions. Then, the platform will detect the “Device Model” and showcase it. If necessary, change the model and choose the “System Version.” Once these adjustments are made, click on “Start “to continue. The next screen will display the download progress of the iOS firmware.

• Step 3. iOS Firmware Verification and Unlocking Confirmation

After ensuring the iOS firmware is downloaded and validated, you’re ready to proceed. To begin unlocking, click the “Unlock Now” button. This action will trigger a confirmation prompt asking you to enter the necessary code. Once entered, tap “Unlock” to advance to the last stage. Click the “Done” button to complete the process when your device is unlocked.

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

Part 3. How To Unlock iPhone Unavailable Using Find My

When encountering the Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable issue, a method to regain access is Apple’s Find My feature. This method allows users to erase their device remotely and set it up again. Nevertheless, it’s important to emphasize that this procedure will delete all information on the Apple iPhone 12 device while unlocking it. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide on unlocking your Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable using Find My:

• Step 1. Using a web browser, access the iCloud website and “Sign In” using your Apple ID and password. Once logged in, scroll down and click the “Find My” option on the website.

• Step 2. On the following screen, select the unavailable iPhone from the “All Devices” section on the left side. Once you access the Apple iPhone 12 device options, tap the “Erase this Device” option. Afterward, follow the on-screen prompts to erase the Apple iPhone 12 device completely.

Part 4. How To Unlock iPhone Unavailable Using Erase iPhone Feature

One potential solution to resolve the Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable issue is the “Erase iPhone” feature. It is available for users running iOS 15.2 or higher via the Apple iPhone 12 device itself. This method is straightforward but requires you to have your device’s Apple ID password. Using this method will result in all data deletion on your Apple iPhone 12. The following is how to unlock unavailable iPhone using Erase iPhone:

• Step 1. To begin, look for the “Erase iPhone” option in the bottom right corner of your Apple iPhone 12.

• Step 2. A prompt will appear on the screen, warning you about the data loss or trying again in 15 minutes. Here, tap “ Erase iPhone” again, and on the following screen, enter the Apple ID “Password.” This will kickstart the process of erasing your Apple iPhone 12, and it will become available.

Part 5. How To Unlock iPhone Unavailable Using Other Device

If another device uses the same Apple ID as your locked device, you can use it to unlock it. You can remotely erase the locked device using the Find My app on this trusted device. It’s important to note that this action necessitates your Apple ID credentials.

Moreover, it will result in deleting all data on the locked device. These are the steps to remove the “Unavailable” iPhone from another device:

• Step 1. Access the Find My app on your reliable iOS device and log in with your Apple ID details. Within the Find My interface, expand the “Devices” tab from the bottom side of the screen.

• Step 2. Within “Devices,” locate and select the “Unavailable” iPhone from the list of devices. Once you have selected the Apple iPhone 12 device, choose “Erase This Device” from the available options after scrolling down.

• Step 3. Afterward, press the “Continue” button to confirm your choice. On the following screen, “Enter Phone Number” if needed and tap the “Erase” option at the top right corner. Next, write your “Apple ID password for verification purposes and again hit the “Erase” option to erase the Apple iPhone 12 device quickly.

Part 6. How To Unlock iPhone Unavailable Using iTunes

Consider utilizing iTunes as a solution for the “iPhone Unavailable” issue. It involves the restoration of your device to its factory settings. While effective, note that it leads to complete data loss. Unlocking your Apple iPhone 12 Unavailable via iTunes is detailed in the following step-by-step guide:

• Step 1. Make certain your computer has the most recent version of iTunes installed. Afterward, connect your Apple iPhone 12 to it via a USB cable. To place your device into Recovery Mode, refer to the appropriate guide based on your Apple iPhone 12 model.
• **For iPhone 8 or Later:**Press the Volume Up button momentarily, followed by the Volume Down button similarly. Press the Side button until the recovery mode screen is displayed.
• For iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Simultaneously press the Volume Down and Sleep/Wake buttons and hold them until the recovery mode screen comes up.
• **For iPhone 6s and Earlier:**Simultaneously press the Home and Sleep/Wake buttons until the recovery mode screen emerges.

• Step 2. In iTunes, a notification will appear, signaling a problem with the Apple iPhone 12 that needs to be updated or restored. Select the “Restore” option to commence the restoration procedure. This action will delete all data and configurations on the Apple iPhone 12 and install the most recent iOS version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, several helpful methods exist for how to unlock unavailable iPhone. Various techniques offer solutions, including iTunes, Find My, and other device removal methods. Dr.Fone distinguishes itself as the most effective choice. This is due to its user-friendly interface and capability to bypass the lock, making it the optimal solution.

Full Guide to Unlock Apple iPhone 12 with iTunes

With such countless passwords, forgetting passwords on occasion isn’t surprising. What are your possibilities for iTunes unlock phone if you run over such circumstances and lose your password? Certainly, when this question springs up, you must not get terrified. We are here to direct you through the process of fixing this issue.

Losing a passcode is entirely normal and can happen to anyone. So, if you are also among the lot, we will elaborate on how to unlock iPhone with iTunes. After thorough research, our experts have laid out some essential unlocking methods for our readers. So, if you need to get things straight, read this detailed guide to go over your issue.

Part 1: Why Was My iPhone Disabled?

Using a lock screen passcode to secure your iDevice is an excellent way. However, it can become troublesome when you forget the key to your phone. Moreover, you may get stuck even if your screen breaks. On the other hand, someone may take your phone and type a few incorrect passcodes.

If your screen displays “iPhone disabled,” the most probable reason is an excess of wrong passcode attempts. However, this can sometimes occur without you understanding if the phone is in your pocket.

It would help if you erased your Apple iPhone 12 to eliminate the lock and passcode, then re-sync it with iTunes. Then, you can restore your phone from an iCloud or an iTunes backup, but if you have never used a backup on your phone, your phone will have nothing. This guide illustrates how to unlock disabled iPhone with iTunes.

Part 2: How to Unlock iPhone with iTunes

At first, iTunes was only a media software used to play, download and see sound and video documents. Later in 2011, it became a valuable tool to support information and adjust it across numerous devices.

It added the ‘Restore’ option that can assist clients with unlocking their iPhones when they forget their passcode.

In any case, one has to know that iTunes is not an expert unlocking tool. Apple seldom updates iTunes, and its last update was long ago. Consequently, it has numerous tech bugs. As a result, the unlocking process using iTunes takes a lot of time. During the process, you may experience different error codes like 3004, 1100, 3194, 4000, and 4013. That makes it a tedious process.

Requirements for Windows PC:

• For iTunes unlock phone, your PC should have installed Windows 8 or later and the most recent iTunes variant.

Requirements for Mac:

• Open the Finder window if you have macOS Catalina or a more recent one.
• Open the most current version of iTunes using macOS Mojave or older.
• You must have a USB connector.

Steps (For Windows)

Step 1. Connect the locked Apple iPhone 12 to the PC

Connect your locked Apple iPhone 12 to your PC through a lightning or USB connector. Open iTunes on Windows PC.

Step 2. Put your Apple iPhone 12 in recovery mode

To enter a Recovery Mode, press a combination of buttons on your Apple iPhone 12. Doing such, you will see a recovery mode screen on your Apple iPhone 12. To place the Apple iPhone 12 in Recovery mode, follow these:

• iPhone 8 or above (second and third generation): Press and release the volume (+) button. Press and release the volume (-) button. Hold power/side button until seeing the recovery mode on your screen.
• iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press the top (or side) and volume down buttons simultaneously until the recovery screen shows up.
• iPhone SE (first generation) and iPhone 6S: Hold the home button and the power/side button simultaneously until the recovery mode screen shows up.

Note: If you see the passcode screen, switch off your Apple iPhone 12 and do the process again until you see the Recovery mode screen.

Step 3. Restore your Apple iPhone 12

As the recovery Mode screen shows up on the iPhone, you will find your Apple iPhone 12 on iTunes unlock phone screen. Then, a box shows up with a message saying there is an iPhone issue. It will expect you to update or restore your phone. So, click on Restore.

Step 4. It then asks you to confirm whether you are sure you need to restore the Apple iPhone 12 to its default factory state. It does so because your media and data will be all erased. Then, click on Restore and Update.

Step 5. Then, “iPhone Software Update” may spring up. Click Next, and afterwards, click Agree. iTunes will begin downloading the software and restore your Apple iPhone 12 when the download is finished.

When the “iPhone software update” is downloaded, iTunes will show that it will erase your Apple iPhone 12 and restore it to iOS 15.4.1. Then click on Restore.

The above bar will show “Extracting software… “. It implies iOS 15.4.1 iTunes is planning to restore the software on this iPhone.

Step 6. Your Apple iPhone 12 will show the restore progress bar with the white apple logo. The length of the process relies upon how much data is on your cell phone. Generally, it takes 20 to 120 minutes. When done, your Apple iPhone 12 will restart naturally. Furthermore, after your Apple iPhone 12 restarts, you can reset your Apple iPhone 12. For example, you can make a new passcode.

Part 3: Unlocking iPhone without iTunes

1. Unlock it with Find My in iCloud

Find My is a famous element in Apple devices that allows you to find your lost phone through Maps. The component has been updated from that point forward, and presently it can be utilized to erase your Apple iPhone 12. Additionally, you can use it to erase your information without a passcode.

Steps to Unlock:

Step 1. Open iCloud.com on a mobile or internet browser.

Step 2. Enter your Apple ID and password as inquired.

Step 3. After signing in effectively, click on Find My and enter your Apple ID and password. Click on Sign In.

Pick your locked gadget under the “All Devices” area.

Step 4. Click on ‘Erase iPhone’. Click on ‘Erase’ again.

Step 5. Enter the Apple ID password to proceed.

Step 6. A check code will be sent to unlock your locked gadget. Enter the code to proceed.

Step 7. Presently, enter your number. Then, click Next and then Done.

Step 8. The iCloud will effectively begin the erase, and you can see the Apple sign with a white advancement bar noticeable on your locked iPhone. After an effective erase process, your Apple iPhone 12 will restart.

Step 9. Swipe up on the Apple iPhone 12 screen to begin once more.

Step 10. iPhone will show that it is locked to the owner. You have to sign in with your Apple ID again, enter the password, and tap on Next. You will currently be enabled to make your new passcode.

2. Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock

If you are searching for an elective way to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 with iTunes, you can pick Wondershare Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock.

This software is an ideal iTunes elective that doesn’t need a passcode to unlock the iPhone. Whatever the situation, Dr.Fone can determine the issue in no time. It can eliminate Face ID, Touch ID, or a 4 to 6-digit passcode in no time. Moreover, it works with almost any iOS version at the moment. Here’s the alternate way to iTunes unlock phone:

Step 1. Connect your iDevice to the PC

From the Dr.Fone program on your PC, select “Screen Unlock” the tool.

Then use a USB connector to connect your iOS gadget to the PC. Then, click the “Unlock iOS Screen” option on your screen.

Step 2. Boot your iDevice in Recovery/DFU Mode

Before deleting the Apple iPhone 12 screen, it is necessary to boot it in Recovery/DFU. You can follow the steps on your screen to do so. Moreover, the Recovery mode is the suggested way for your situation. However, you can use the DFU mode if this doesn’t work.

Step 3. Confirm Phone Model

After turning the DFU mode on, the program will show your phone information. In addition, it will show its model and software version. You can choose the correct data from the dropdown menu if it isn’t accurate. Then, it is time to download the firmware required for your phone model.

Step 4. Remove the Lock

After downloading the firmware, tap Unlock Now to begin the unlocking process.

Doing so will unlock your Apple iPhone 12 within no time. However, kindly note this unlocking process will likewise wipe your Apple iPhone 12’s user data. Indeed, each solution removes your data. Therefore, you must be careful enough to back up your files before doing this process.

The Bottom Line

We hope you found out about how to unlock iPhone with iTunes. We likewise discussed what to do when you need an alternate method to iTunes. We know that using iTunes can be somewhat complicated; hence, the other options can help you a ton. However, we strongly suggest Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock for a more refined unlocking process.