Within the screen lock methods that the iPhone has, the lock with a code or numerical password is very secure. Once imposed by the owner, it controls access to the content of the device and protects it in such a way that it can deactivate it, that is, render it unusable, when an attempt is made to unlock it with incorrect numerical combinations.
But this also poses a problem if the owner of the device forgets the numerical key, since an inaccessible device may involve a loss of information if it is not protected with a backup system. That is why we first show you how to regain access to your device and then retrieve the most important information it could contain.
What is iOS Recovery mode
Recovery mode or iOS recovery mode allows you to restore access to a device in the event of unforeseen failures, whether due to poorly installed updates, system errors or other causes that include forgetting the screen lock password. among other problems.
How to get into your locked iPhone without the passcode
In this case, one option to consider is to use Recovery mode, which requires a computer (Windows or Mac) and its original USB cable.
If your computer is Windows or Mac with Mojave or earlier versions of macOS, you need to have iTunes updated to the latest version. On Mac computers with macOS Catalina or later versions, the procedure is done from the Finder. In any case, proceed as follows.
Make sure to turn off the iPhone and activate the recovery mode. This varies depending on the iPhone model.
On iPhone 8, 8 Plus and later models, press the Side button (Power button) while connecting to the computer.
On iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, press the volume down button at the same time you connect it to the computer.
On iPhone 6 and earlier models, press the Home button while connecting to the computer.
When you see the recovery mode screen appear on the iPhone, release the corresponding keys for each model. Now, go to your computer and on the iTunes screen (or Finder), locate your iPhone and select the Restore option.
Wait for the iPhone software to download and finish resetting the device to its initial values. After this, you will be able to configure the device again.
How to restore your iPhone content
This is possible if you have a backup saved in iCloud and, therefore, an account in said service. To do this, go to your iPhone, open Settings and tap on your username.
Then tap on iCloud and select Manage storage. Tap Backups and check that your iPhone has personal information backed up to that service.
How to restore iTunes purchases
In case you want to restore your iTunes purchases, go to the App Store and tap on the Today option located at the bottom of the screen. Next, log in with your iCloud account and select Purchases to display the list of all content purchased on your iPhone.
Finally, tap the Download icon located on the right side of each item to download it to iPhone.