3 Easy Ways to Factory Reset a Locked Apple iPhone XS Without iTunes

There are a few causes that you might need to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. Perhaps you forgot your passcode and can’t seem to remember it, no matter how many times you try. Maybe you’re selling your Apple iPhone XS and want to ensure that all your data is wiped from the Apple iPhone XS device before handing it over to someone else.

Whatever the reason, a few different ways can help you factory reset locked iPhones without iTunes.

Here are some ways to finish the factory reset on a locked iPhone without iTunes.

Let’s get started.

Easy App to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

If you search for a simple and effective way to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes, you should check out Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock. This professional iOS screen unlocks tool can help you erase all kinds of data from your Apple iPhone XS and help you unlock your device within a few minutes.

For this, you will need to follow the steps given below.

Step #1: Download and Install Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on a Computer or Mac:

First, download Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on your computer or Mac. Once the software is downloaded, install it on your system and launch it.

Step #2: Select Screen Unlock:

On the main interface of Dr.Fone, you need to select “ Screen Unlock. “ You may see many options, but you will have to choose Screen Unlock because it will allow you to remove the passcode from your locked iPhone.

Step #3: Get your Apple iPhone XS in Recovery Mode and Make it connected to the Computer:

You must put your Apple iPhone XS in recovery mode and then connect it to the computer using a USB cable. If you don’t know how to put your Apple iPhone XS into recovery mode, don’t worry, you will all the instructions on the screen.

Once Dr. Fone detects your device, you will see the following screen.

Step #4: Choose the Appropriate Firmware and Download it:

After your Apple iPhone XS is in recovery mode, you need to select the appropriate firmware for your device. Once you have selected the firmware, click on the “ Download “ button to start downloading it.

Step #5: Reset your Apple iPhone XS:

Once the firmware is downloaded, you can click on the “Unlock Now” button to begin resetting your device.

Your locked iPhone has now been successfully unlocked without iTunes after the reset process has been completed.

The process will take a few minutes if you have a strong internet connection because the Firmware may take some time to download. So be patient and wait for the process to be completed.

3 Simple Methods to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

Besides the above-given method, other methods can also help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes.

These methods are as follows:

Method #1: Factory reset via the Find My feature on your device

Resetting your locked iPhone without iTunes is one of the most effective methods. You can use this method if you have set up the “ Find My iPhone “ function on your device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to icloud.com from any web browser and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Choose the Apple iPhone XS device you wish to erase and click “Erase iPhone.”

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Now that your device has been erased, you can reset it as a new one.

Method #2: Use the Find My feature via another device to remotely factory reset your device (your apple id, password, and Internet required)

This is another method you can use if you have the “ Find My iPhone “ feature on your device. You can use this method to remotely factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes by using another iOS device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: On another iOS device, go to iCloud and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Click on “Erase iPhone” after selecting the Apple iPhone XS device you want to erase.

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click on the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Your device will now be erased, and you can set it up as a new device.

Method #3: Enter the Recovery Mode of the Finder

If you want to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes and any data loss, then this is the method you should use. This method will put your device into recovery mode, and then you can restore it from a previous backup.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Finder on your computer and connect your Apple iPhone XS.

Step 2: Click “ General “ and then “ Reset. “

Step 3: Choose the “ Erase All Content and Settings “ option and confirm by clicking “ Erase Now “.

Your device will now be erased, and it’ll become a new device.

FAQs

1. Can a Factory Reset Bypass the Lock screen Passcode on iPhone?

Yes. A factory reset will bypass the lock screen passcode on your Apple iPhone XS and allow you to access it without a passcode. However, all your data will disappear, so make sure you have a backup.

2. Can I Factory Reset my iPhone without Losing the Data?

No. If you want a factory reset, all your data will be erased, so make a backup before proceeding.

But if you want your Apple iPhone XS set to return to the default without losing your data, you can do a “Reset All Settings.” This will not touch your data but will return all the default settings.

3. What is the Difference Between a Soft Reset and a Hard Reset?

A soft reset is when you restart your device, and a hard reset is when you factory reset all the settings on your device and start fresh. A factory reset is a type of hard reset without losing the data.

4. How do I force my iPhone 6 to factory reset with buttons?

To force your Apple iPhone XS to factory reset with buttons, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Press and hold the “ Sleep/Wake “ button and the “ Home “ button simultaneously for about 10 seconds.

Step 2: After 10 seconds have passed, release the “ Sleep/Wake “ button but keep holding the “ Home “ button.

Step 3: Keep holding the “ Home “ button until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.

Step 4: Here, you will be in recovery mode, and now you can reset your Apple iPhone XS.

Your device will now be reset, and you will have a phone like a new one.

5. How can I get into a locked iPhone?

If you have lost the passcode of your Apple iPhone XS, then you can use the Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock tool to factory reset your device. To do this, you need to proceed with the steps given above. They are easy to follow and will help you reset your device without risk.

The Bottom Line

These are some of the most effective methods that can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. You can use any of these methods to reset your device and get rid of the lock screen.

However, if you want to factory reset your Apple iPhone XS because you have forgotten your passcode, we recommend using Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock app because it is the most effective and safe method.

This app can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes in just a few minutes, and it is very easy to use. So, if you want to reset your device without any data loss, we recommend using this app.

Forgot iPhone Passcode Again? Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without Passcode Now

Ever since the introduction of Touch ID in iPhone 5s, people have started using passcodes, and it is an excellent thing that passcodes in smartphones have become mainstream. The introduction of biometric Touch ID made way for using passcodes without the need to enter them every time, making the smartphone experience more secure while adding convenience. It was a game-changer move.

However, that move also presented an issue. As passcode was only required some of the time, people started forgetting their passcodes. So, if you have an Apple iPhone XS and want to know how to unlock Apple iPhone XS without passcode since you have forgotten it, continue reading to find out what to do.

Part I: 4 Easy Ways To Unlock iPhone Without Passcode

We present you with three easy ways to unlock iPhone without passcode.

I.I: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without Passcode Through iTunes/ macOS Finder

If you have access to a computer, be it Windows or macOS, you can quickly use iTunes or macOS Finder to unlock Apple iPhone XS without passcode. You will need a data cable (preferably original Apple) and an active internet connection.

Step 1: Use the data cable to connect the computer and the locked iPhone and launch iTunes or Finder (macOS Catalina and above).

Step 2: This process requires putting the Apple iPhone XS in Recovery Mode.

Putting iPhone 8 In Recovery Mode

Press the volume up key and release. Then, press the volume down key and release. Lastly, press the power key until the Apple iPhone XS enters Recovery Mode. iTunes or Finder will reflect this.

Putting iPhone 7 In Recovery Mode

If you have the older iPhone 7, putting that device in Recovery Mode is slightly different.

Step 1: Turn the phone off by going to Settings > General > Shut Down and dragging the slider.

Step 2: Press the volume down and the power keys together until iTunes or Finder show the Apple iPhone XS in Recovery Mode.

Step 3: Once in Recovery Mode, click Restore to unlock Apple iPhone XS without passcode.

The Apple iPhone XS will be restored to factory settings and restarted. You will have to set it up afresh when all data on the Apple iPhone XS device is erased in this process.

I.II: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without Passcode Through Wondershare Dr.Fone

Now, if that process does not inspire confidence and you would like a more guided walkthrough experience, there is an app by Wondershare to help you through the unlocking process every step of the way - Wondershare Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock.

Wondershare Dr.Fone is a collection of tools designed to help you perform various activities on your smartphones and tablets. You can do much with this app, such as operating system repair, secure device erases, or even location spoof during those Pokémon sessions or prank friends and family.

It is a must-have software that supports iOS and Android and works on both macOS and Windows. Download Wondershare Dr.Fone here to begin.

Step 1: You need to connect your PC with a USB to Your Apple iPhone XS. And open Dr.Fone.

Step 2: Find Unlock iOS Screen and click it:

Step 3: The provided instructions help you to get the Apple iPhone XS into Recovery Mode:

Step 4: Dr.Fone detects the software version and device model automatically. If the detected information is incorrect, adjust it correctly and click Start.

Step 5: When the downloaded software is verified, and the Apple iPhone XS is ready to be unlocked, Dr.Fone will prompt with the below screen:

Click Unlock Now and wait until the unlock successful notification pops up.

I.III: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without Passcode Through The iCloud Website (Find My iPhone)

If the Apple iPhone XS had Find My enabled before it got locked, and you have the iCloud credentials that the Apple iPhone XS is locked to, you can use Find My on the iCloud website to unlock the locked iPhone.

Step 1: Go to https://icloud.com and sign in using the iCloud/ Apple ID used with the locked iPhone. If you use any other ID, you will not see this iPhone since it would not be attached to that ID.

Step 2: Click Find My and select your Apple iPhone XS.

Step 3: Click Erase iPhone and confirm.

iPhone will be unlocked and restored to factory settings. Fresh setup will be required.

I.IV: Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without A Computer (Find My App)

What to do if there is no computer nearby and all you have is another iPad or iPhone? Please do not panic, as you can use Find My on any Apple device to erase and unlock the Apple iPhone XS provided the same Apple ID as the locked iPhone is used.

This means that it might be easier for you if you have another Apple device signed in to the same iCloud as the locked iPhone, else you will need to temporarily sign out of the account on that device and sign in with the requisite account. It is cumbersome, but it is better than nothing in a pinch.

Step 1: Launch Find My app on your macOS or iOS device.

Step 2: Select the locked iPhone from the list of devices, click or tap it on the map and click or tap Erase This Device.

The unlocked iPhone will be erased, and factory settings restored on the Apple iPhone XS device, requiring a new setup after the restart.

If your locked iPhone is not on the list of devices, and you cannot do anything, feel free to pay a visit to an Apple Store, as they will have all resources required to get your Apple iPhone XS unlocked and working again.

Part II: FAQs

Here are helpful frequently asked questions for you.

FAQ 1: Can I unlock iPhone without data loss?

Unlocking an iPhone requires erasing the Apple iPhone XS device’s contents as the entire device is wiped and the operating system is installed fresh. Therefore, there is no way to unlock iPhone without data loss.

FAQ 2: Can I use iPhone without passcode?

Yes, you can use the Apple iPhone XS without a passcode if you fear that you might forget the passcode again. However, this also means exposing your data and device to theft and security risks, not to mention that you will only be able to use Touch ID if you set up a passcode first.

Bonus Tip: Prevent iPhone From Getting Locked In Future

It might be in the best interest of your data and device to use a passcode and benefit from biometric security convenience; you must be wondering what you can do to make sure that you avoid forgetting the passcode again. There are a few things you can do:

Setting a passcode for your birthday can be tempting. It could also be an ATM PIN. However, you should avoid that temptation because if someone knows one of them, they know the other by default.

So how to use a memorable yet indecipherable passcode? The best strategy is to mix and match. For example, use two digits of something, two of another, and two of another to create six digits of the passcode. That will maintain the ease for you to remember the passcode but make it difficult for someone else to figure out that specific combination.

You can also use the alphanumeric passcode feature on the iPhone. However, we recommend changing the passcode frequently for extra security.

Conclusion

The convenience of Touch ID on the Apple iPhone XS is unparalleled. Yet, with that convenience comes the risk of forgetting the passcode to the Apple iPhone XS device, the need to enter the passcode is greatly minimized with Touch ID.

So, if you have forgotten your Apple iPhone XS passcode and are looking for how to unlock Apple iPhone XS without passcode, use this guide to pick one of the three easy ways to unlock Apple iPhone XS in case of forgotten passcode.

How To Unlock Apple iPhone XS Without Swiping Up? 6 Ways

Part 1: What’s Swipe Up To Unlock on iPhone?

The Swipe Up Unlock function has been a fundamental aspect of iPhone functionality for a long time. It enables swift access to your phone by swiping upward from the screen’s bottom. This gesture grants entry to all your applications and data on your Apple iPhone XS. It was initially introduced to replace the physical Home button. However, it significantly simplified the user experience with iPhones.

It streamlined various tasks without the need for excessive button pressing. Moreover, its simplicity and speed became vital in how individuals utilized their iPhones. Yet, as preferences evolve, not everyone finds the exclusive Swipe Up Unlock feature appealing. Hence, exploring alternative methods to unlock your Apple iPhone XS is advisable.

Part 2: Why Do You Need To Swipe Up to Unlock on iPhone?

Swipe up to unlock the iPhone holds significant importance in its user interface and accessibility. This intuitive gesture serves as the primary means of gaining access to the Apple iPhone XS device. Here are several reasons why the Swipe Up to Unlock iPhone feature has been a cornerstone:

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

The swipe gesture replaced the physical Home button, simplifying the unlocking process. Users could effortlessly swipe up from the bottom of the screen. It eliminates the need for pressing multiple buttons to access their devices.

Beyond unlocking the iPhone, the swipe gesture also allowed for quick navigation to the home screen. This streamlined access enabled users to jump straight into their apps, messages, or other functions.

3. Visual Aesthetics and User Experience

Apple’s design philosophy often revolves around clean, intuitive interfaces. The swipe up to unlock gesture aligns smoothly with this philosophy. It contributes to a visually appealing and user-friendly experience.

4. Security and Privacy

The gesture served as a security measure, preventing accidental or unauthorized access to the iPhone. Moreover, users can confidently rely on this unlocking method to safeguard their personal data.

Part 3: 6 Common Ways To Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up

For an extended period, the primary method to unlock an iPhone involved swiping up. Nonetheless, if you wish to explore alternative methods, it’s entirely feasible. Various methods have emerged over time to open the Apple iPhone XS without swiping up.

Method 1: Unlock iPhone without Swiping Up with Enable Back Tap

With the debut of iOS 14, Apple unveiled an innovative feature called Back Tap. It provides users with a method to engage with their iPhones by tapping the Apple iPhone XS device’s rear surface. This innovative functionality can be configured to perform various actions. It includes unlocking the phone without a swiping-up gesture. Follow these steps to set up and use the Back Tap feature for unlocking your Apple iPhone XS:

Step 1. To start, access the “Settings” on your iOS device. Once there, scroll down until you locate the “Accessibility” option and tap on it. On the following screen, select “Touch” to access Touch settings under the “Physical and Motor” section.

Step 2. On the following screen, scroll down to the bottom and press “Back Tap.” Now, either choose “Double Tap” or “Triple Tap” and select “Lock Screen” from the options under the “System” section.

Method 2: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up Using iPhone Screen Unlocker: Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

If you’ve forgotten the passcode for your Apple iPhone XS and are unable to access it anymore, there is no need to panic. We have the perfect tool for you that can unlock any lock on your screen in a few moments. The tool we are talking about is Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) , an industry leader in smartphones. Dr.Fone, a pioneering tool for iOS lock screen removal, assists in unlocking various iPhone/iPad/iPod touch lock screens.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up!

Simple, click-through, process.
Unlock screen passwords from all iPhones and iPads.
No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
Supports iPhone 15 /iPhone 14 /iPhone 13, iPhone 12, … and the latest iOS version fully!

4,395,218 people have downloaded it

It can handle 4-digit / 6-digit passcodes, custom numeric codes, alphanumeric passcodes, Face ID, Touch ID, Screen Time Passcodes, and more within minutes. Wondershare Dr.Fone also offers a swift and simple iCloud activation lock removal feature within its iPhone unlocking capabilities.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

Capable of bypassing Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Screen Time restrictions without causing any data loss.
Compatible with iOS 17/iPadOS 17 and iPhone 15, ensuring its functionality with the latest Apple OS.
Offers a simple 3-step procedure, making it accessible even for users without technical expertise.

Steps To Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Here is how to open your Apple iPhone XS without swiping up with the help of Wondershare Dr.Fone:

Step 1: Navigate to Unlock iOS Screen

Download and install Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer. Go to “Toolbox,” tap “Screen Unlock,” and finally choose “iOS” to access the screen unlock tools. Once the window appears, choose the “Unlock iOS Screen” button to proceed with unlocking your iOS device’s screen. In the following screen, click “Start” to begin the process of unlocking your iOS device.

Step 2: Initiate the iDevice into Recovery Mode

After this step, enter Recovery Mode on your iDevice by following the specific on-screen instructions. Once your iDevice is in Recovery Mode, the system automatically identifies and displays the “Device Model.” You can make adjustments to the model if necessary and choose the “System Version” as per your needs. When finished, click on “Start” to initiate the unlocking process for your device’s screen.

Step 3: Successfully Unlock Your Locked iPhone

The screen will showcase the download progress of the iOS firmware on the platform. Once the iOS firmware download is completed, it undergoes verification. Proceed by selecting the “Unlock Now” button to initiate the unlocking process. A prompt window will appear, requesting confirmation for the process. Enter the necessary code and tap on “Unlock” to proceed. Upon successful unlocking of the iDevice, click “Done” to complete the process.

Method 3: Unlock the Apple iPhone XS Without Swiping Up via Touch ID/Face ID

Apple’s advanced biometric authentication systems, Touch ID and Face ID, are also reliable options. These offer smooth and secure methods to unlock the Apple iPhone XS 11 without swiping up. The following are the models that support Touch ID and Face ID:

Models with Touch ID

iPhone SE (2022)
iPhone SE (2020)
iPhone SE (2016)
iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone 8
iPhone 7 Plus
iPhone 7
iPhone 6s Plus
iPhone 6s
iPhone 6 Plus
iPhone 6
iPhone 5s

Models with Face ID

iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12
iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11
iPhone XS Max
iPhone XS
iPhone XR
iPhone X

Method 4: Unlock Your Apple iPhone XS Without Swiping Up via AutoUnlockX

AutoUnlockX is a tweak designed for jailbroken iPhones. It enhances the Apple iPhone XS device’s unlocking experience by automatically bypassing the lock screen. That is when certain conditions are met. Jailbreaking involves bypassing the software restrictions imposed by Apple. Here are the steps to iPhone 11 unlock screen without swiping:

Step 1. Begin by adding an external repository like Sileo or Cydia, which will serve as an emulator. Remember, it won’t be automatically added to your applications; you’ll need to do this manually. So, download the repository from the SparkDev website (it’s not available on the App Store). Head to the “Tweaks” tab, find “AutoUnlockX,” and download it to your device.

Step 2. Following this, go to “Sources” in your Apple iPhone XS’s Settings, select “Edit,” and manually add the external repo to Cydia or Sileo. Open Sileo or Cydia and navigate to the “Search” page. In the search bar, type “AutoUnlockX.” Once the tweak appears, select it, and then tap “Get (Sileo)” or “Install (Cydia).”

Step 3. Confirm the selected repo by tapping the “Confirm” option and allow the tweak to install. Once installed, tap “Restart SpringBoard” to complete the download. After your Apple iPhone XS resprings, proceed to enable AutoUnlockX.

Step 4. Open Settings, tap on “App,” and then select “AutoUnlockX.” Toggle on “Enable Auto Unlock.” Customize other settings as desired by tapping on them to turn them on or off.

Step 5. When finished, tap the “Respring” option at the bottom to apply your changes. At last, unlock your Apple iPhone XS using your Face ID effortlessly.

Method 5: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up via Voice Control

Utilizing Voice Control to unlock your Apple iPhone XS offers a hands-free approach to accessing your device. It is especially helpful for individuals with accessibility needs. There are situations where manual interaction might be challenging. Here’s a guide on how to set up and use “Voice Control” to unlock your Apple iPhone XS:

Step 1. Open the Settings app on your Apple iPhone XS and scroll down to tap “Accessibility.” On the following screen, press “Voice Control” to proceed further.

Step 2. To set up voice control, you need to ensure that the “Voice Control” option is toggled on. After activating Voice Control, use a voice command to unlock your device.

Method 6: Unlock iPhone Without Swiping Up with Switch Control

Utilizing Switch Control is an excellent accessibility feature on iOS devices. It allows users to interact with their iPhones using adaptive switches or the Apple iPhone XS device’s screen itself. Moreover, it can provide an alternative way to navigate the Apple iPhone XS and access the Home screen. You no longer have to rely solely on the conventional swipe gesture. Here is how you can set up switch control to iPhone swipe to unlock:

Step 1. Access your Apple iPhone XS’s Settings, then tap on “Accessibility.” Now find and select “Switch Control,” and within it, navigate to “Switches.” Now, tap “Add New Switch” and choose “Camera.”

Step 2. Set Left Head Movement and Right Head Movement separately to “Home.” This action will lock the screen when tilting your head left or right. Now go back to “Recipes” in Switch Control, select “Edit,” and delete all existing recipes.

Step 3. Set “Scanning Style” to “Single Switch Step Scanning” and adjust “Dwell Time” to the shortest duration. Then, turn off the remaining settings under Switch Control.

Step 4. Save your switch, return to Accessibility Settings, and locate “Accessibility Shortcut.” Now, set triple-clicking the side button to activate “Switch Control.” On the home screen, triple-click the Side button, as previously set, to activate the switch on your Apple iPhone XS. Now, lock the Apple iPhone XS screen and then wake the Apple iPhone XS device without looking at it.

Conclusion

To conclude, we have explored different ways to unlock iPhones without swiping up beyond just using the usual swipe-up method. We’ve talked about using your fingerprint or face to unlock, using voice commands or special controls. The swipe-up gesture on iPhones is great, but these other methods give you more options.

While these methods are helpful, there’s a software called Wondershare Dr.Fone that’s particularly useful for iPhone issues. It does things like recovering data, fixing problems with your phone, and unlocking it when you can’t get in. Dr.Fone has a feature called “Screen Unlock” that was specifically made to help with different ways of unlocking iPhones.

iOS Unlock

3 Easy Ways to Factory Reset a Locked Apple iPhone XS Without iTunes