Apple iPhone XS Max Asking for Passcode after iOS 17/14 Update, What to Do?

If you’ve recently updated your iOS iPhone and iPad to the iOS 17/14 operating system, you may notice a bit of a bug where the Apple iPhone XS Max displays the passcode lock, even if you haven’t got a security code in place.

This obviously means you won’t be able to access your phone, and in many cases, you’re going to want to get back into your phone as quickly as possible. However, this may be easier said than done. Fortunately, today we’re going to go through multiple solutions to help you get your device working as it should!

Part 1. Don’t try passcodes blindly

One of the worst things you can do when faced with this situation is to enter passcodes blindly. Perhaps you’re trying random numbers and letters, or you’re trying passwords you’ve used in the past. If you get it wrong, you’re going to be locked out of your device for a long time.

The more times you get your code wrong, the longer you’ll be locked out, so avoid doing this at all costs, so make sure you move straight onto these approaches to get your phone working as quickly as possible.

Part 2. 5 ways to unlock iPhone after iOS 17/14 Update

2.1 Try a default passcode in your family

While we said, you shouldn’t type in random numbers to try and guess the password, of course, if you have a standard family passcode that you use across all iOS devices, perhaps an admin password or just something you use for everything, it can be well worth a try.

In reality, you get three attempts to put a passcode in before it locks you out, so try two passcodes that your family uses to see whether this will easily unlock your device. If you brought your device preowned and still have contact with the owner, they may have a passcode you can try.

2.2 Unlock iPhone with an unlock tool

The second approach you can take if you don’t know the passcode and can’t get it unlocked is to use a powerful software solution known as Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . This Wondershare software application completely unlocks your phone, even if you don’t know the passcode.

This software is easy to use and incredibly simple, yet it gets the job done. If you’re looking for a quick way to get your iOS device back up and running with full access after an iOS 17/14 update, it doesn’t get much better than this. Here’s how it works;

Step 1. Download and install the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) software to either your Mac or Windows PC and open it, so you’re on the homepage. Connect your iOS device to your computer using the USB cable and wait for the software to recognize your device.

When it does, close iTunes if it automatically opens and clicks the Screen Unlock option from the main menu.

Step 2. Click the Unlock iOS Screen option.

Step 3. You will now need to put your device in DFU mode, also known as Recovery Mode. Fortunately, this is easy thanks to the on-screen instructions where you will hold down the volume down and power button for a few seconds.

Step 4. Once Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) has detected your device in DFU Mode. You’ll be able to select which device you’re using and what firmware you want to be repaired; in this case, iOS 17/14.

Step 5. Once everything has been confirmed and you’re happy to continue, press the Unlock option. The program will do its thing, and when it’s done, the software will say you’re able to disconnect your Apple iPhone XS Max and use it without a lock screen!

That’s how easy Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) makes the entire unlock process!

2.3 Restore an old backup from iTunes

Another key way that some users have found to unlock their device after an update is to restore their device to an older version, aiming to put your device back into a position where it didn’t have a lock screen.

It’s only possible to do this if you’ve backed up your iOS device in the past (which is why you’re encouraged to back up regularly), and it can all be done through the iTunes software on either your Mac or Windows computer. Here’s how it works;

Step 1. Ensure you’re running the latest version of iTunes and then connect your iOS device to your Mac or Windows computer using the official USB cable. This should automatically open the iTunes window.

Step 2. In iTunes, click the symbol representing your device and then click Summary. On this screen, you’ll be able to choose the Restore iPhone option at the top to begin the restoring process.

Step 3. Follow the onscreen instructions where you’ll choose which backup file you want to use before iTunes, then restores your device. When the software has completed the process, you’ll be able to disconnect your Apple iPhone XS Max and use it without a lock screen!

2.4 Restore in recovery mode

In some cases, restoring your device using just iTunes will not be good enough, and it won’t have the effect you’re looking for; in this case, restoring your device with no lock screen after an iOS 17/14 update.

If the above method of restoring your device via iTunes doesn’t work, or you haven’t got a backup file to load, you’ll need to restore your device using a move known as Recovery Mode, or DFU mode. This will hard reset your device and get it working to its full potential.

Here’s how to do it. (Note, the process will differ slightly depending on which model of iPhone you’re using).

Step 1. Press and hold the volume up button for about one second, and then switch and press the Volume Down button for the same amount of time. You can then hold the side button (on devices without a home button), and the following screen should appear after a few seconds.

Step 2. Now connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to your computer with iTunes and wait for iTunes to open. Make sure you’re running the latest version of iTunes before connecting up your device. Also, make sure you’re using the official USB cable for the most stability.

Step 3. iTunes should automatically detect that your device is in Recovery Mode and automatically restore your device to a default state without a lock screen. Wait until this process is completed before disconnecting your device and using it as normal.

2.5 Use Find My iPhone feature in iCloud

The fifth and final approach you can take to removing a lock screen from your recently updated iPhone or iPad when faced with the iOS 17/14 glitch is taking advantage of the integrated Apple technology and features are known as Find My iPhone.

While this feature originally allows you to literally find your Apple iPhone XS Max in the situation where it’s lost and offers many other security features to help ensure your device and data don’t fall into the wrong hands, you can also use it to remove your device unwanted lock screen.

Of course, this will only work if the Find My iPhone features have been enabled in the past, so make sure you’re using it to get it to work. Here’s how to use the feature to get your phone access back.

Step 1. From your computer, iPad, tablet, or mobile web browser, head over to iCloud.com and log into your iCloud account using the login in button at the top of the screen.

Step 2. Once signed in, scroll down the menu of features and select the Find iPhone feature. Click on the All Devices option at the top.

Step 3. From the list of devices connected to your account, click the Apple iPhone XS Max device name with the locked screen and then click the Erase option. This will clear everything from your device, much like the process we’ve spoken about in the methods above.

Leave the Apple iPhone XS Max device to erase, and once completed, you’ll be able to pick up and use your phone as normal without a lock screen. You should also now be able to update to iOS 17/14 without any problems!

Summary

And there you go, the five key ways you need to know when it comes to removing an unwanted lock screen from your iOS device after an iOS 17/14 update. We highly recommend the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) since the software makes the whole process incredibly easy, especially when managing any problems you may have on your iOS device!

Different Methods To Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Max

The Apple iPhone XS Max 14 and iPhone 14 Pro are the latest flagship smartphones from Apple. They come equipped with advanced security features such as passcodes and Face ID. However, there may be instances where you find yourself locked out of your device. It can happen due to a forgotten passcode or Face ID not matching.

This article will explore different methods to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max in such scenarios. Thus, providing you with the necessary steps to get your iPhone 14 unlocked.

Part 1: About the Apple iPhone XS Max Passcode and Face ID

Before talking about the unlocked iPhone 14 Pro, it is crucial to understand its security features. The Apple iPhone XS Max 14 and iPhone 14 Pro offer robust security features. It is to protect your data and ensure your device’s privacy. The primary methods of unlocking these devices include the passcode and Face ID. Both of which provide different levels of security and convenience.

Passcode

The passcode is a numeric or alphanumeric code that you set up to secure your Apple iPhone XS Max. It acts as a barrier between unauthorized users and your device’s contents. When you set up your Apple iPhone XS Max for the first time, you are prompted to create a passcode. You can choose a 6-digit or 4-digit passcode or a custom alphanumeric or numeric code. It all depends on your preference and the level of security you desire.

After setting up a passcode, it will be required every time you unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max. It is also required when accessing sensitive information or making changes to security settings. Moreover, it serves as the first line of defense in protecting your device from unauthorized access. If an incorrect passcode is entered many times, your Apple iPhone XS Max will be disabled for a specific time. It increases your device’s security.

Face ID

Face ID is an advanced biometric authentication system on Apple iPhone XS Max. It utilizes the Apple iPhone XS Max device’s TrueDepth camera system. This includes sensors and an infrared camera to create a detailed map of your face. This facial recognition technology allows you to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max by looking at it. During the initial setup, you are prompted to enroll your face by positioning it within the frame.

You also need to move your head in a circular motion. Face ID captures and analyzes various facial features. These include the unique patterns of your eyes, nose, and mouth. You can set up two types of Face IDs on iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro. These include one with a mask and one without a mask.

Part 2: Methods To Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Max

Losing access to your Apple iPhone XS Max 14 after forgetting its passcode can be frustrating. When looking for how to unlock iPhone 14, you will find that various methods are available. Below we have discussed the three most common methods to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max 14:

In this method, you will be erasing the iPhone, meaning all your data on the Apple iPhone XS Max will be lost. Use the following steps to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max via iCloud:

Method 1: Using iCloud via Find My

This method lets you unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max using the Find My iPhone feature on iCloud. To use this method, ensure you have previously enabled Find My iPhone on your device. Moreover, you will also need Apple ID credentials to use your iCloud account.

In this method, you will be erasing the iPhone, meaning all your data on the Apple iPhone XS Max will be lost. Use the following steps to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max via iCloud:

• Step 1. Open a web browser and go to the iCloud website on a computer or another device. Sign in using your Apple ID, which should be the same credentials linked to your locked iPhone.

• Step 2. After signing in, click the “App Grid” icon on the top right corner and choose “Find My” from the options. On the Find iPhone page, you will see a list of devices associated with your iCloud account. Select your Apple iPhone XS Max from the list.

• Step 3. Look for the “Erase iPhone” option from the Apple iPhone XS Max device details and tap on it. This will start the erasure process on your Apple iPhone XS Max. Afterward, follow the on-screen instructions to erase your Apple iPhone XS Max. Once it is done, your device will be unlocked, and you will be able to set it up.

Pros

• With internet access, you can unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max remotely from any computer or device.
• It allows you to locate your Apple iPhone XS Max 14 or iPhone 14 Pro in case of you misplacing your device.

Cons

• You must have previously enabled Find My iPhone on your locked device to use this method.

Method 2: Using iTunes on Your Computer

Restoring your Apple iPhone XS Max with iTunes is another method to unlock your device when you have forgotten the passcode. This method involves using iTunes on a computer to erase your Apple iPhone XS Max and install the latest iOS version.

For it, ensure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer. Using this method will also result in losing all your data on the iPhone. Follow these steps to unlock iPhone 14 Pro Max with iTunes:

• Step 1. Launch iTunes on your computer and connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to your computer using a USB cable. Now first press and release the “Volume Up” button. Then repeat the same process with the “Volume Down” button.
• Step 2. Finally, press and hold the “Side” button until your Apple iPhone XS Max transitions to Recovery Mode. Now iTunes will detect your Apple iPhone XS Max in Recovery Mode. It will display a pop-up message asking whether you want to restore or update your device.

• Step 3. Here, choose the “Restore” option. It will erase all data on your device and install the latest iOS version. Once it is complete, you will see the initial setup screen on your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Pros

• Recovery Mode is supported by iTunes on Windows or macOS versions prior to Catalina and by Finder on macOS Catalina and later.
• If the passcode or Face ID issue is related to a software glitch or corruption, Recovery Mode can help restore your device to a stable state.

Cons

• Users unfamiliar with Recovery Mode can get their devices stuck in it if they make a mistake.

Method 3: Using the Screen Unlock Feature of Wondershare Dr.Fone

You will come across many methods when looking for how to unlock iPhone 14. However, no way is simpler or safer than using Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . It can remove all screen locks from iPhone, iPad, and iPad Touch. These types include 4-digit passcode, 6-digit passcode, Touch ID, and Face IDs.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Fix iPad, iPod Touch, and iPhone Lock Screen Password Forgot Issue

• Remove Apple ID/iCloud Account efficiently.
• Save your Apple iPhone XS Max quickly from the disabled state.
• Free your sim out of any carrier worldwide.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock and enjoy all iCloud services.
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.
• Fully compatible with the latest iOS.

4,008,670 people have downloaded it

Steps to Use Wondershare Dr.Fone to Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max

Learning how do you unlock an iPhone becomes a lot easier with Wondershare Dr.Fone. Here is how you can unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max 14 with this iPhone screen unlock tool:

• Step 1. Navigate to Unlock iOS Screen in Dr.Fone

Launch Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer and select “Screen Unlock” from the available options in the “Toolbox” menu. On the next screen, choose “iOS” and then click on “Unlock iOS Screen”.

safe & secure

• Step 2. Enable Recovery Mode on Your Apple iPhone XS Max

Connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to the computer. Once Dr.Fone detects your Apple iPhone XS Max, click on “Start”. Follow the on-screen instructions to put your device into Recovery Mode. Wondershare Dr.Fone will automatically detect the mode and iOS version of your Apple iPhone XS Max.

• Step 3. Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Max

If the detected details are correct, click on “Start” to initiate the firmware downloading process. Once the firmware is downloaded, click on “Unlock Now.” A prompt window will appear asking for confirmation. Enter the code “000000” to confirm. The firmware will then be installed, which will unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Pros

• With Wondershare Dr.Fone’s help, you can also remove screen time passcodes.
• It also lets you remove the SIM lock on your Apple iPhone XS Max with ease.

Cons

• When using Wondershare Dr.Fone to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max, you will lose your data.

safe & secure

Part 3: Tips for Successful Apple iPhone XS Max Unlocking

Unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max can be a delicate process. To increase your chances of success and avoid potential pitfalls, consider the following tips:

1. Check Device Eligibility

Make sure your Apple iPhone XS Max is eligible for unlocking using the methods mentioned in this article. Different ways may have specific requirements or limitations, so verify compatibility beforehand. For example, if you want to use iCloud to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max 14, you need to have Find My enabled on the targeted device. For iTunes, you need to have the latest version of iTunes installed.

2. Backup Your Data

Using all the methods mentioned in this article will result in data loss. It is an important reminder that you should always create backups of your important data. If you are unsatisfied with native backup methods on your Apple iPhone XS Max, Wondershare Dr.Fone is an excellent alternative. With it, you can create backups on your computer whenever you want using a one-click procedure.

If you find the manual backing up hectic, Wondershare Dr.Fone permits you to create an automatic incremental backup on your computer. These backups are done wirelessly at your specified time when both devices are connected to the same network.

3. Understand Terms and Conditions

Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions associated with the unlocking methods you plan to use. This includes any potential data loss, warranty implications, or risks involved. Be informed before proceeding. All unlocking methods, such as using iCloud’s Find My iPhone or restoring with iTunes, involve erasing your Apple iPhone XS Max’s data.

Understand the potential data loss implications and ensure you have a recent backup to restore your data if needed. Moreover, you also need to ensure that you have the legal right to unlock the iPhone. Unlocking methods should only be used on devices you own or have explicit permission to unlock.

4. Follow Instructions Carefully

Following the instructions provided for each unlocking method is crucial to increase your chances of successful unlocking. Read the instructions thoroughly before starting the unlocking process. Familiarize yourself with each step and ensure you understand them. Take note of any prerequisites, such as having the latest version of iTunes installed, enabling Find My iPhone, or establishing a stable internet connection.

Avoid skipping or rushing through any steps, and carefully perform each action as instructed. Pay attention to details, such as button combinations, specific software settings, or prompts that may appear on your device or computer screen.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Unlocking an iPhone may encounter certain obstacles or issues along the way. First, you need to ensure that your Apple iPhone XS Max 14 actually needs unlocking. For example, in the case of Face ID, you are required to enter the passcode after a particular time. In the case of a simple Face ID, you will need to enter a password every 48 hours if it hasn’t been unlocked during this time.

When both Face IDs, such as simple and mask, are enabled, every successful attempt adds 6.5 hours to the time before you are required to enter a passcode. Moreover, always use original or MFi-Certified cables to connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to the computer.

Conclusion

To summarize, unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max can be daunting when you’ve forgotten your passcode or encounter Face ID issues. Thankfully, there are different methods available to regain access to your device. This article explored three methods: using iCloud’s Find My iPhone, restoring with iTunes, and utilizing Dr.Fone. Each way offers its advantages and considerations.

After careful evaluation, we recommend Wondershare Dr.Fone as the best choice to unlock your Apple iPhone XS Max . It provides comprehensive features to unlock your device efficiently. Moreover, it offers a local backup option, ensuring that your data is safeguarded.

safe & secure

Forgot iPhone Passcode Again? Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without Passcode Now

Ever since the introduction of Touch ID in iPhone 5s, people have started using passcodes, and it is an excellent thing that passcodes in smartphones have become mainstream. The introduction of biometric Touch ID made way for using passcodes without the need to enter them every time, making the smartphone experience more secure while adding convenience. It was a game-changer move.

However, that move also presented an issue. As passcode was only required some of the time, people started forgetting their passcodes. So, if you have an Apple iPhone XS Max and want to know how to unlock Apple iPhone XS Max without passcode since you have forgotten it, continue reading to find out what to do.

Part I: 4 Easy Ways To Unlock iPhone Without Passcode

We present you with three easy ways to unlock iPhone without passcode.

I.I: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without Passcode Through iTunes/ macOS Finder

If you have access to a computer, be it Windows or macOS, you can quickly use iTunes or macOS Finder to unlock Apple iPhone XS Max without passcode. You will need a data cable (preferably original Apple) and an active internet connection.

Step 1: Use the data cable to connect the computer and the locked iPhone and launch iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina and above).

Step 2: This process requires putting the Apple iPhone XS Max in Recovery Mode.

Putting iPhone 8 In Recovery Mode

Press the volume up key and release. Then, press the volume down key and release. Lastly, press the power key until the Apple iPhone XS Max enters Recovery Mode. iTunes or Finder will reflect this.

Putting iPhone 7 In Recovery Mode

If you have the older iPhone 7, putting that device in Recovery Mode is slightly different.

Step 1: Turn the phone off by going to Settings > General > Shut Down and dragging the slider.

Step 2: Press the volume down and the power keys together until iTunes or Finder show the Apple iPhone XS Max in Recovery Mode.

Step 3: Once in Recovery Mode, click Restore to unlock Apple iPhone XS Max without passcode.

The Apple iPhone XS Max will be restored to factory settings and restarted. You will have to set it up afresh when all data on the Apple iPhone XS Max device is erased in this process.

I.II: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without Passcode Through Wondershare Dr.Fone

Now, if that process does not inspire confidence and you would like a more guided walkthrough experience, there is an app by Wondershare to help you through the unlocking process every step of the way - Wondershare Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock.

Wondershare Dr.Fone is a collection of tools designed to help you perform various activities on your smartphones and tablets. You can do much with this app, such as operating system repair, secure device erases, or even location spoof during those Pokémon sessions or prank friends and family.

It is a must-have software that supports iOS and Android and works on both macOS and Windows. Download Wondershare Dr.Fone here to begin.

Step 1: You need to connect your PC with a USB to Your Apple iPhone XS Max. And open Dr.Fone.

Step 2: Find Unlock iOS Screen and click it:

Step 3: The provided instructions help you to get the Apple iPhone XS Max into Recovery Mode:

Step 4: Dr.Fone detects the software version and device model automatically. If the detected information is incorrect, adjust it correctly and click Start.

Step 5: When the downloaded software is verified, and the Apple iPhone XS Max is ready to be unlocked, Dr.Fone will prompt with the below screen:

Click Unlock Now and wait until the unlock successful notification pops up.

I.III: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without Passcode Through The iCloud Website (Find My iPhone)

If the Apple iPhone XS Max had Find My enabled before it got locked, and you have the iCloud credentials that the Apple iPhone XS Max is locked to, you can use Find My on the iCloud website to unlock the locked iPhone.

Step 1: Go to https://icloud.com and sign in using the iCloud/ Apple ID used with the locked iPhone. If you use any other ID, you will not see this iPhone since it would not be attached to that ID.

Step 2: Click Find My and select your Apple iPhone XS Max.

Step 3: Click Erase iPhone and confirm.

iPhone will be unlocked and restored to factory settings. Fresh setup will be required.

I.IV: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Max Without A Computer (Find My App)

What to do if there is no computer nearby and all you have is another iPad or iPhone? Please do not panic, as you can use Find My on any Apple device to erase and unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max provided the same Apple ID as the locked iPhone is used.

This means that it might be easier for you if you have another Apple device signed in to the same iCloud as the locked iPhone, else you will need to temporarily sign out of the account on that device and sign in with the requisite account. It is cumbersome, but it is better than nothing in a pinch.

Step 1: Launch Find My app on your macOS or iOS device.

Step 2: Select the locked iPhone from the list of devices, click or tap it on the map and click or tap Erase This Device.

The unlocked iPhone will be erased, and factory settings restored on the Apple iPhone XS Max device, requiring a new setup after the restart.

If your locked iPhone is not on the list of devices, and you cannot do anything, feel free to pay a visit to an Apple Store, as they will have all resources required to get your Apple iPhone XS Max unlocked and working again.

Part II: FAQs

Here are helpful frequently asked questions for you.

FAQ 1: Can I unlock iPhone without data loss?

Unlocking an iPhone requires erasing the Apple iPhone XS Max device’s contents as the entire device is wiped and the operating system is installed fresh. Therefore, there is no way to unlock iPhone without data loss.

FAQ 2: Can I use iPhone without passcode?

Yes, you can use the Apple iPhone XS Max without a passcode if you fear that you might forget the passcode again. However, this also means exposing your data and device to theft and security risks, not to mention that you will only be able to use Touch ID if you set up a passcode first.

Bonus Tip: Prevent iPhone From Getting Locked In Future

It might be in the best interest of your data and device to use a passcode and benefit from biometric security convenience; you must be wondering what you can do to make sure that you avoid forgetting the passcode again. There are a few things you can do:

Setting a passcode for your birthday can be tempting. It could also be an ATM PIN. However, you should avoid that temptation because if someone knows one of them, they know the other by default.

So how to use a memorable yet indecipherable passcode? The best strategy is to mix and match. For example, use two digits of something, two of another, and two of another to create six digits of the passcode. That will maintain the ease for you to remember the passcode but make it difficult for someone else to figure out that specific combination.

You can also use the alphanumeric passcode feature on the iPhone. However, we recommend changing the passcode frequently for extra security.

Conclusion

The convenience of Touch ID on the Apple iPhone XS Max is unparalleled. Yet, with that convenience comes the risk of forgetting the passcode to the Apple iPhone XS Max device, the need to enter the passcode is greatly minimized with Touch ID.

So, if you have forgotten your Apple iPhone XS Max passcode and are looking for how to unlock Apple iPhone XS Max without passcode, use this guide to pick one of the three easy ways to unlock Apple iPhone XS Max in case of forgotten passcode.