The "iPhone Unavailable" or "Security Lockout" message is triggered after too many consecutive incorrect passcode attempts (usually more than 9). What is the purpose? It prevents brute-force attacks on your device. In such attacks, automated programs or individuals try thousands of combinations to guess the passcode.
When your device displays this message, it intentionally disables normal access pathways. You can only regain access through a factory reset or a secure wipe. These options erase the encryption key that protects user data, along with the passcode. There is no bypass or unlock procedure that retains the data, as that would compromise the fundamental security of the iPhone. Let’s explore these options and other information that may be of help.
Use the on-device erasure tool
This feature works on devices with iOS 15.2 or newer. They should have Wi-Fi or an active cellular network connection. Besides, you must also have signed in to your Apple ID before the lockout. Here are the steps to take.
- Try entering the password a few more times until you get the ‘iPhone unavailable’ message. (If you are locked out but cannot see the message.)
- Check the right-hand bottom corner for "Erase iPhone" or "Forgot Passcode."
- A new screen will pop up, stating, "Erase [phone’s name] and all its data. You can restore your data from a backup after the erase." Tap the blue "Erase [phone’s name]" button to proceed.
- Enter your Apple ID password. It proves that you are the legitimate owner of the device and activates the erasure command.
- Tap "Erase [phone name]" one final time. The iPhone will immediately begin the secure wipe process.
- When finished, it will boot to the "Hello" screen, ready for you to set it up again.
Remote Erase via Find My (iCloud)
You use Apple's ‘Find My network’ feature, which you should have activated before the lockout. Any other requirements? Your device should have been connected to the internet before the lockout. Don't switch it off when using the lockout message. Also, get a computer, tablet, or another smartphone. You will use it to log into iCloud.
Use a computer
- Visit iCloud.com on your PC browser.
- Locate the login tab. Type your Apple ID and password.
- Tap the "Find iPhone" or the "Find Devices" option.
On another Apple device
- Tap the "Find My" app.
- Select the one currently showing the "iPhone Unavailable" error from the list of devices associated with your Apple ID.
- Click "Erase iPhone."
A warning appears to confirm that this action will delete all media, settings, and data. Click "Erase" again to give it a green light. For the final measure, re-enter your Apple ID password.
The device is locked, even after the erasure. So, even after the erasure, reactivate it using your Apple ID.
Use the recovery mode
You can reinstall the firmware when the above methods fail, or your phone lacks the set requirements. The method requires you to reinstall software on your computer using a USB cable. An original Lightning or USB-C cable works, depending on your device. You get this option in the Finder or iTunes app. Your option depends on the software model. Finder works with Macs running Catalina 10.15 or newer. The rest use iTunes.
Pick your model from the options below.
iPhone 15 and newer
- Find and click the 'Volume Up' button and release it.
- Hit the Volume Down button.
- Press the side button.
- Connect your phone to the computer.
- Don't let go of the side button.
- Wait until the 'Recovery Mode' screen appears.
- Let go of the side button.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
- Tap the 'Volume Down' button.
- Hold the button as you connect the cable to the computer.
- Wait for the 'Recovery Mode' screen.
- Remove your finger from the button.
iPhone 6s and earlier
- Press and hold the Home button.
- Connect the cable to the computer while holding the ‘Home’ button.
- Keep holding until the ‘Recovery Mode’ screen appears.
Finder/iTunes restore process
- Connect your device to the PC.
A message on the PC says your iPhone has a problem and requires restoration.
- Select the "Restore" option.
You have an option of ‘update’ or ‘restore.’ Select 'restore.' The "Update" option works when updating unlocked devices. So, it can't work in this case.
- Allow software download
Wait for your computer to download the latest full iOS firmware file. This may take time if you have a low internet speed.
What if the device exits before the download is complete? Your phone may exit if the download takes more than 15 minutes. Just wait for it to finish. Then, repeat the entire Recovery Mode entry sequence from the beginning.
- Firmware reinstallation
The computer will begin installing the fresh copy of iOS, which wipes the entire device. When complete, the iPhone will reboot to the "Hello" setup screen.
How to restore your data
You could have recovered all your contacts, messages, apps, and photos. However, you should have backed up your device before the lockout. Start the standard iPhone setup process from the "Hello" screen. Reach the "Apps & Data" screen for these three options:
Restore from iCloud Backup
This is the default option on Apple. Log in with your Apple ID and choose the most recent backup.
Restore from Mac or PC
Do you back up your device on a PC? You can use it to restore your phone. Just connect to your PC and transfer data.
Set up a new iPhone
How about giving your phone a new life? Just set up a new one. You only recover data synced via iCloud (like Contacts, Calendars, and iCloud Photos). However, you lose app data or messages. It is a great option if you wish to start afresh or have no backup.
Phone unavailable? Reset it fast with three options
Did you lock out your device? Worry not. You can reset it in a few steps. Though this wipes your phone data, you can still restore it from your PC or iCloud. Just choose the option that points to your backed-up data. However, you will lose any data you hadn’t backed up before the lockout.
Check your phone's iOS version, as it determines the recovery steps. Once you get it right, it will be complete in a few clicks. So, if your device displays ‘phone unavailable,’ pick the on-phone erasure tool, iCloud reset, or recovery mode and bring it to life fast.
FAQs
Can I recover any unbacked-up data on my phone after recovery?
No, you lose all data that wasn’t backed up.
I lost my Apple ID. Can I recover backed-up data?
No, you cannot recover it until you get the password for your iCloud.
Why does my device display ‘iPhone unavailable’?
It is a lockout security feature that prevents data leakage when you lose your password.