iPad passcode forgotten no backup what do I do?

If I have forgotten my iPad passcode, then how can I get back in without a backup or erasing my data because I don't want to lose my pictures and I am new to iPad so I haven't heard of a backup, can Apple unlock my iPad for me?

iPad (9th generation)

Posted on May 13, 2023 1:10 AM

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May 13, 2023 2:56 AM in response to Flower444

You may find this support page to be helpful:

If you see an iPhone or iPad unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support


A forgotten or unknown iPhone/iPad passcode cannot be recovered - and neither can it be reset or modified from another device. If you don’t have a pre-existing backup, if it recovery requires the device to be restored, all locally data will be unavoidably lost.


iOS/iPadOS uses an encrypted filesystem - and the only copy of the encryption keys necessary to access data is stored within the iPad’s Secure Enclave (i.e., its security chip). Your Passcode unlocks the Secure Enclave - which in turn releases the encryption keys to the Operating System. No Passcode = no encryption keys = no access to data.


If your data matters to you, you should always create a backup before disaster strikes. For future reference:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


Creation of a backup is very easy; when using an iCloud backup, the backup is automatically updated.



iOS/iPadOS 15.2 or later with a forgotten Passcode


Apple has introduced a new procedure with which to reset an iPad or iPhone with a forgotten Passcode - allowing you to use your AppleID and associated Password to reset your device.

How to reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch when you forgot your passcode - Apple Support


You will be able to restore data from a pre-existing iCloud backup without the use of a computer, but will require a PC/Mac to restore data from an iTunes backup.



iPadOS 15.1 and earlier - and all devices that are Disabled



If your iPhone/iPad indicates that it is disabled/unavailable/locked-out, or you have forgotten your iPad passcode, you have no alternative other than to follow this process:

If you’ve forgotten the passcode on your iPad, or your iPad is disabled – Apple Support


You’ll need access to either a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of macOS).

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support


Use of a PC or Mac is unavoidable. If you don’t have access to a suitable computer of your own, that of a helpful friend or family member will suffice. Alternatively, the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store will be delighted to assist:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple



AppleID


You may also need your AppleID and associated password. If these have also been forgotten, they can be recovered here:

https://iforgot.apple.com


To recover your credentials, you’ll need access to one of the following:

  • Your primary email address mailbox that corresponds with your AppleID
  • Any of the secondary/recovery email addresses that should be configured for your AppleID account
  • Any of the trusted telephone numbers (fixed line or Cellular/Mobile) that are associated with your AppleID


More information about recovery of your AppleID and associated Password:

If you forgot your Apple ID - Apple Support

If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support



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iPad passcode forgotten no backup what do I do?

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