iPad locked? These three methods always work
Your iPad is in front of you. The passcode? You've lost it. You try it once, twice, five times. Nothing. There's no point in panicking, but those important photos and documents are all on there. A hard reset means losing everything—from your favorite apps to those handy accessories you've set up.
Yet something strange is going on. Most people think a forgotten passcode automatically means data loss. That iTunes is their only salvation. But here's the twist: Apple has quietly built in multiple backdoors that almost no one knows about. No complicated software from dubious websites, no expensive repair shops. Just three simple steps that Apple itself devised but doesn't prominently share anywhere. And the best part? You don't even have to remove your screen protector .
Useful links
- Refurbished iPad collection - If you are considering purchasing a replacement iPad
- AirPods Collection - Perfect audio accessory for your restored iPad
Apple's Three Hidden Methods
Apple has indeed built in multiple ways to unlock your iPad if you've forgotten the passcode. The problem? They're not clearly stated anywhere in the user manual. The first method only works if you've previously set up Face ID or Touch ID. The second requires you to have recently created a backup. And the third? It's a real lifesaver, but it does require some patience.
Method 1: Get the forgotten option directly on your screen
After five incorrect attempts, a timer will appear on your screen. Your iPad will then be temporarily disabled. But beware: in the lower right corner, there's a small text that many people miss. In newer iPadOS versions (15.2 and later), it says "Forgot Passcode?" or "Erase iPad." This is your first chance.
When you tap this, you'll be given the option to erase your device with your Apple ID password. The beauty of this? If you had iCloud backup turned on, your data will be automatically restored the next time you log in. Your photos, notes, and even your app settings will be restored. The only things you'll lose are any local files that weren't synced to the cloud.
Method 2: Recover via iCloud without a computer
No computer handy? No problem. Apple's "Find My" feature works like an emergency exit. Log in to icloud.com/find from any other device—even an Android phone will work. Select your iPad from the list of devices and choose "Erase This Device."
The process takes about ten minutes, depending on your internet connection. Your tablet will reboot as if it were fresh out of the box. During the installation process, select "Restore from iCloud Backup," and voilà—everything is back to the way it was. Even your Safari tabs will be open where you left them.
Method 3: The classic iTunes/Finder route
To be on the safe side, we'll also cover the traditional method via your computer. On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, use Finder; on Windows or older Macs, use iTunes. The principle remains the same.
Connect your iPad with a cable—not wirelessly, as that won't work in this case. Start your device in recovery mode by:
- iPads with Home button: Press and hold the Home button and the top button at the same time
- iPads without a Home button: Quickly press volume up, then volume down, then press and hold the power button
Continue holding the buttons until the recovery mode screen appears. It's not the Apple logo, but an image of a computer with a cable. Your computer will now automatically detect the device and offer you the option to restore.
Important precautions
Before using any of these methods, there are a few crucial points to consider. First, if your tablet is work-related, check your company's policy. Some organizations install Mobile Device Management (MDM) profiles that block wiping or automatically send a notification to IT.
Second, two-factor authentication can be a stumbling block. If your iPad is your only Apple device and you use it for verification codes, make sure you've set up a backup verification method. Otherwise, you'll find yourself in a chicken-and-egg situation where you can't verify your Apple ID without your iPad, but you can't restore your iPad without your Apple ID.
What happens to specific apps?
WhatsApp messages will return if you had an iCloud backup. Banking apps will need to be reactivated with your PIN or SMS verification. Games with online storage (such as those linked to Facebook or Google Play Games) will retain your progress. Local games without cloud syncing will unfortunately start from scratch.
Netflix, Spotify, and other streaming apps don't remember your account, but your subscription will, of course, continue. You'll just have to log in again. Password managers like 1Password or Bitwarden sync via their own cloud, so your data is safe as long as you still remember your master password.
Prevention for the future
To avoid this problem in the future, consider these tips:
- Set an access code that you associate with something personal but not obvious
- Enable Face ID or Touch ID as a backup unlock method
- Record your access code in a password manager or in a safe place
- Turn on automatic iCloud backup (Settings > your name > iCloud > iCloud Backup)
- Use the option to re-enter your access code after 48 hours, this keeps the memory sharp
Recovering a forgotten iPad passcode doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right approach and preparation, you can regain full access to your device, including all your data, within an hour. The secret is to use Apple's own systems instead of third-party tools or services. And most importantly: always make sure you have a recent backup; then it doesn't really matter which method you use.
Forgotten access code is no longer a problem
So a forgotten passcode doesn't have to be a nightmare. Apple has built in three working escape routes that keep your data intact, provided you have a recent backup. Whether you choose the direct wipe option on your screen, restore via iCloud.com, or the classic computer method, you'll have access to everything again within an hour.
All you need is your Apple ID password and a little patience. Just to be safe, consider getting a new iPad case and hiding a note with your access code. Old-fashioned, but it works.
