Forum Discussion

AndrewHall's avatar
AndrewHall
Iron Contributor
Apr 15, 2026

How to unlock iPhone when is disabled and connect to itunes?

My iPhone is disabled after several incorrect passcode attempts, and now it cannot be accessed at all. The screen shows a message: iPhone is disabled. Connect to iTunes Now, this iPhone is unavai...
Rexom's avatar
Rexom
Copper Contributor
Apr 15, 2026

When it comes to how to unlock when iPhone is disabled? If your iPhone is disabled and you see a "Security Lockout" or "iPhone Unavailable" screen, using the built-in Erase iPhone option is the simplest free method to regain access. This feature was introduced by Apple in iOS 15.2, and it allows you to erase your device directly from the lock screen without needing a computer .

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to unlock when iPhone is disabled using the Erase iPhone option.

  1. For iOS 17 or Later (Newer iPhones)
  2. Apple has streamlined the process in recent updates:
  3. On the lock screen, keep entering the wrong passcode until you see "iPhone Unavailable" or "Security Lockout" .
  4. Look for the "Forgot Passcode?" option in the corner of the screen and tap it.
  5. Tap "Start iPhone Reset" .
  6. You will be prompted to enter your Apple ID password to sign out of your Apple Account.
  7. Tap "Erase iPhone" to confirm.
  8. Once the process completes, your iPhone will restart, and you can set it up again.

 

For iOS 15.2 through iOS 16 (Older Versions)

If you have an older version of iOS, the interface is slightly different:

  1. On the disabled lock screen, after several failed attempts, look for the "Erase iPhone" option in the bottom right corner.
  2. Tap it and confirm by tapping "Erase iPhone" again.
  3. Enter your Apple ID password to proceed.
  4. Your iPhone will begin erasing itself.

 

This process will factory reset your iPhone, permanently deleting all photos, apps, and settings that are not backed up. However, if you have a recent iCloud backup, you can restore your data after the reset.