How to Unlock iPhone Without Passcode Without Resetting [2025]

Forgetting your iPhone passcode can be a major inconvenience, especially when you’re locked out of your device with important data at stake. While most unlocking methods involve a factory reset that erases all data, some solutions allow you to regain access without wiping your iPhone. This guide explores three methods to unlock your iPhone while preserving data, highlighting AnyUnlock by iMobie as a top third-party tool alongside Apple’s official options.

Why Unlocking an iPhone Without a Passcode or Resetting Is Difficult

Getting locked out of an iPhone—whether from a forgotten passcode, too many failed attempts, or an unknown code on a second-hand device—is tricky to fix without losing data. Apple’s encryption, Find My, and Activation Lock protect privacy and deter theft but also make access without the passcode nearly impossible. Most standard solutions, like restoring via iTunes/Finder or erasing through iCloud, require a factory reset, wiping all data if no recent backup exists.

However, under specific conditions, unlocking without data loss is possible. This guide focuses on three such methods:

• AnyUnlock by iMobie – A third‑party tool that works when “Find My” is off.
• Previous Passcode Entry – iOS 17+ feature allowing use of your old passcode within 72 hours.
• Apple Support – Official help if you can prove ownership.

Unlock iPhone Without Passcode Using AnyUnlock

AnyUnlock by iMobie is a professional iPhone password unlocker designed to address various iOS locking issues, including screen passcodes, Apple ID, MDM, and iCloud Activation Lock. Its “Unlock Screen Passcode” feature is particularly relevant for users who have forgotten their 4-digit, 6-digit, Face ID, or Touch ID passcode. The key advantage here is its potential to preserve your data, which is a significant relief for those without recent backups.

Key Features

• Broad Compatibility: AnyUnlock supports a wide range of iPhone models, from older devices like the iPhone 4S up to the latest iPhone 16, and is compatible with iOS versions from iOS 5 through iOS 26.
• Data Preservation: Crucially, it can remove the screen passcode without data loss if the “Find My” feature is turned off on your device.
• Multi-Purpose Tool: Beyond screen passcodes, AnyUnlock also offers solutions for bypassing Apple ID, Mobile Device Management (MDM) locks, and iCloud Activation Lock, making it a versatile tool for various iOS issues.
• User-Friendly Interface: The software is designed for ease of use, requiring no technical skills, which makes it accessible to a broad audience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using AnyUnlock

1. Download and Install: Visit the official iMobie website (www.imobie.com) and download the AnyUnlock software. Install it on your Windows or Mac computer.
2. Connect iPhone: Connect your iPhone to your computer with a USB cable, then launch AnyUnlock.
3. Select Feature: On the AnyUnlock interface, choose the “Unlock Screen Passcode” option.
4. Start Process: Click “Start Now.” AnyUnlock will detect your device.
5. Download Firmware: The software will prompt you to download the appropriate iOS firmware for your device. Select a download path and click “Download.” Ensure you have a stable internet connection for this step.
6. Unlock Device: Once the firmware is downloaded, click “Unlock Now.” AnyUnlock will begin the process of removing the passcode, which typically takes 5–10 minutes.
7. Access iPhone: After the process completes, your iPhone will restart, and you should be able to access it without a passcode. You can then set a new passcode if desired.

Unlock iPhone Using Previous Passcode (iOS 17 and Later)

Apple introduced a convenient feature in iOS 17 (and later versions, including iOS 18) that offers a lifeline if you’ve recently changed your passcode and forgotten the new one. This method allows you to unlock your iPhone using your previous passcode within a 72-hour window, without requiring a factory reset or data loss.

Requirements

• Your iPhone must be running iOS 17 or later (including iOS 18).
• You must know your previous passcode.
• The passcode change must have occurred within the last 72 hours.
• No computer or additional software is needed.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Enter Incorrect Passcodes: On your iPhone’s Lock Screen, intentionally enter incorrect passcodes until the “iPhone Unavailable” or “Security Lockout” screen appears.
2. Tap “Forgot Passcode?”: After several incorrect attempts, a “Forgot Passcode?” prompt will appear in the screen’s bottom-right corner. It might take a moment to show up.
3. Select “Enter Previous Passcode”: Tap on “Forgot Passcode?” and then select the “Enter Previous Passcode” option. This option will only be available if you changed your passcode within the last 72 hours.
4. Type Old Passcode: Enter your old passcode when prompted. If correct, your iPhone will unlock.
5. Set New Passcode: Follow the on-screen prompts to set a new passcode. This process will not result in any data loss.

Unlock iPhone via Apple Support

When other methods fail, or if you prefer an official route without using a computer, contacting Apple Support is a viable option. Apple can assist in unlocking your iPhone without a data reset, provided you can furnish sufficient proof of ownership.

Requirements

• Proof of Purchase: A valid receipt or invoice showing the iPhone’s serial number or IMEI.
• Device Serial Number: Have your iPhone’s serial number on hand.
• Access to Support: Contact Apple via their website, Support app, or visit an Apple Store.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Documentation: Collect and gather all relevant proof of purchase showing ownership.
2. Contact Apple Support: Reach out to Apple Support via support.apple.com or schedule an appointment at an Apple Store. In-store visits can sometimes expedite the process.
3. Provide Information: Provide the serial number and proof of purchase.
4. Identity Verification: Follow Apple’s verification process (may take a few days).
5. Unlock iPhone: Once verified, Apple will help unlock your iPhone without erasing data.

Conclusion

Forgetting your iPhone passcode is frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean losing your data. This guide outlined three ways on how to unlock iPhone without passcode without resetting: AnyUnlock offers a fast, user-friendly solution when “Find My” is off; iOS 17’s previous passcode feature lets you regain access within 72 hours of a change; and Apple Support can assist if you provide proof of ownership. Always back up your device regularly, and choose the method that best suits your situation.