How to Unlock iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work

How to Unlock iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work

Sophia Lv12

How to Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesn’t Work

man wearing apple watch with Apple iPhone 15 Plus by him

There are plenty of reasons why Apple devices are in such high demand. The quality of the products is unquestionable – few can argue the superior quality of the Apple iPhone 15 Plus’s camera, for instance. Almost all devices are long-lasting. They have a great resale value. They offer cutting-edge features.

However, perhaps the greatest advantage of Apple products is just how well they integrate with one another and work together.

With a quick little tap, you can have your Apple iPhone 15 Plus’s camera working as your Mac’s webcam. You can use your iPad as a second Mac display. Take calls using any device.

Moreover, you might be able to use the Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus.

Now, you cannot just unlock any Apple iPhone 15 Plus with your Watch. The devices must be paired, and you’ll need to follow a few steps to enable this option. Here’s how to unlock your phone using your Apple Watch like a pro.

Part 1. Can I Use an Apple Watch To Unlock My Apple iPhone 15 Plus?

phone, earphones, and apple watch on a table

The Apple iPhone 15 Plus face ID is one of the simplest, most practical ways to unlock your phone. While you’ll need a passcode just as another security layer, you won’t have to worry about someone else breaking in if they know it, going through your messages, or collecting your private information.

With face ID, only you can unlock your phone, sign in to your favorite apps, and even authenticate purchases.

The problem is that neither face ID nor traditional passcodes aren’t always the most convenient option. If you wear sunglasses, safety goggles, a face mask, or other face coverings and can’t take them off for some reason, face ID won’t work. If you have gloves on and can’t type in your passcode, your passcodes won’t work.

What could work is your Apple Watch.

Depending on the Apple Watch version you own and your Apple iPhone 15 Plus model, you could use your watch to unlock your phone in any circumstances. It’s easy, secure, and convenient, above all else.

Part 2. Requirements for Unlocking Apple iPhone 15 Plus With Apple Watch

unlock requirements

Unfortunately, not every Apple iPhone 15 Plus can be unlocked with your Apple Watch, and not every Apple Watch can unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus. Both devices must meet some requirements before you can adjust your settings to enable this option.

To be able to use your Apple Watch to unlock your phone with the utmost ease, you’ll need:

  • An Apple iPhone 15 Plus with Face ID – Apple iPhone 15 Plus X and newer models;
  • iOS 14.5 and newer versions;
  • An Apple Watch series 3 and newer models;
  • watchOS 7.4 and newer versions.

Additional requirements you’ll need to meet include:

  • Your Apple iPhone 15 Plus and Apple Watch need to be paired;
  • Both devices need to have WiFi and Bluetooth turned on (but a connection to a WiFi network isn’t necessary);
  • You need to have a passcode on your Apple Watch;
  • Wrist detection on your watch needs to be turned on;
  • The watch needs to be on your wrist and unlocked.

You’ll also need to wear items such as sunglasses, face coverings, ski masks, or others that prevent you from using your Apple iPhone 15 Plus Face ID.

Part 3. How To Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch

a cyclist wearing an apple watch

If you meet all the aforementioned criteria, setting up the feature to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus using an Apple Watch is easy. You’ll just have to follow a few steps:

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcodeon your Apple iPhone 15 Plus;

iphone face id and passcode settings

  • Step 2: Type in your passcode;
  • Step 3: Find and enable Unlock with Apple Watch.

Remember that your Apple Watch’s wrist detection must be turned on for this option to work. When you tap to enable Unlock with Apple Watch, if your wrist detection isn’t turned on, you’ll get a prompt on your phone asking you to turn it on.

You can turn on wrist detection on your watch by following these steps:

  • Step 4: Go to Settingson your Apple Watch;
  • Step 5: Tap on the Passcode;
  • Step 6: Toggle Wrist Detection

apple watch wrist detection settings

Now that you’ve enabled the option to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus using your Apple Watch, it’s time to simply start using the feature. To unlock your phone, you’ll need to:

  • Have your Apple Watch on your wrist, unlocked;
  • Tap on your Apple iPhone 15 Plus or raise it to your face to activate it;
  • Glance at your phone while wearing a face mask, sunglasses, or another item that’s preventing you from using Face ID;
  • Swipe up on your phone’s screen.

Your Apple Watch will send an alert when you’ve used it to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus. If you accidentally unlock your phone, simply tap on the Lock Apple iPhone 15 Plus on the screen of your watch to lock it.

However, remember that the next time you want to use your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus, you’ll first need to type in your passcode.

Part 4. What To Do if You Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone 15 Plus With a Watch

person wearing face mask unlocking their Apple iPhone 15 Plus

Generally speaking, unlocking your Apple iPhone 15 Plus with an Apple Watch should be a simple, seamless task. Unfortunately, though, that’s not always the case. A glitch or a bug could be preventing you from enjoying this feature, so take a look at a few things you could try to fix it.

1. Check All Settings & Reconfigure

As mentioned earlier, there are a few requirements that your devices need to meet to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus with your Apple Watch.

If you’re using the correct versions of Apple iPhone 15 Plus (iPhone X, iOS 14.5 and newer) and Apple Watch (series 3, watchOS 7.4 and newer), try to reconfigure your settings.

Make sure that you have:

  • A passcode on your watch;
  • Wrist detection turned on;
  • Feature Unlock with Apple Watchturned on on your Apple iPhone 15 Plus.

If all the settings are correct, try one of the following options.

2. Restart Your WiFi/Bluetooth Connection

Your Apple iPhone 15 Plus and your Apple Watch need to have both WiFi and Bluetooth turned on. If they’re turned on on both devices, try turning them off and back on again to restart the connection.

Remember, you only need WiFi and Bluetooth on but don’t need to be connected to a WiFi network.

If the problem persists, you could also restart your devices and try again.

3. Reset Your Face ID

In some instances, it’s the Face ID feature that’s causing trouble, so you might want to try and reset it. It’s much easier than it may sound, you just need to follow the next few steps:

  • Step 1: Go to your Apple iPhone 15 Plus’s Settings;
  • Step 2: Select Face ID & Passcode;
  • Step 3: Tap Reset Face ID.

When you tap on this, you’ll need to go through the process of setting your Face ID as usual. You’ll need to type in your passcode, hold your Apple iPhone 15 Plus in front of you (in portrait orientation), tap to get started, and put your face in the provided frame.

Move your face to complete the circle, then tap on Continue. Repeat the face scan process the second time and select Done.

4. Do a System Repair on Your Apple iPhone 15 Plus

If your Apple Watch unlock is still misbehaving, you might need to do a full system repair. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to use verified apps like Dr.Fone to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Dr.Fone Apple iPhone 15 Plus system repair is designed to be fast, efficient, and safe. It can repair virtually any system glitch in less than five minutes, ensuring your phone operates seamlessly.

To perform a standard system repair with Dr.Fone, follow the next few steps:

  • Step 1: Download and launch Dr.Fone on your computer;
  • Step 2: From the Toolboxon your left-hand side, select System Repair;

unlock-iphone-with-watch-8.jpg

  • Step 3: Connect your Apple iPhone 15 Plus to your PC using a cable connection;
  • Step 4: Select your device type in the new window that opens;
  • Step 5: Select iOS repair;

dr.fone ios repair

  • Step 6: Select Standard Repair Mode;
  • Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions and select Enter Recovery Mode;
  • (Alternatively, select Guideif your phone is unresponsive);
  • Step 8: Select the iOS firmware you want to download and install on your device;
  • Step 9: Wait for the download to finish, then select Repair Now;
  • Step 10: Wait until the process is complete, then select Done.

dr.fone finishing ios repair

If it was a system mistake preventing you from unlocking your Apple iPhone 15 Plus with your Apple Watch, the option should be functioning well after the Dr.Fone iOS repair.

5. Reset Network Settings

If the problem wasn’t due to a system glitch, you should try resetting your Apple iPhone 15 Plus’s network settings. The process is simple, just:

  • Step 1: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network;
  • Step 2: Type in your passcode.

Resetting your network settings will clear out data from your internet, local network, and devices, including WiFi passwords, some Bluetooth connections, and more. However, your paired devices, such as the Apple Watch, shouldn’t be removed.

6. Reset Your Watch and Pair It Again

Finally, if you’re still experiencing issues, you might need to reset your Apple Watch and pair it with your Apple iPhone 15 Plus again.

It’s all quite simple:

  • Step 1: Press and hold the power button;
  • Step 2: Drag the slider under Power offto the right;
  • Step 3: Press and hold the power button to turn the Apple iPhone 15 Plus device back on.

To perform a hard reset, simultaneously press and hold the power button and digital crown.

Conclusion

Using your Apple Watch to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus is convenient when you cannot use the Face ID feature. It allows you to seamlessly unlock your phone when wearing sunglasses, goggles, face masks, or other face coverings that prevent the Face ID from working.

Enabling this option is a straightforward process, and if there’s ever a glitch, there are several options you could try to repair it.

Forgot iPhone Passcode Again? Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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 15 Plus and want to know how to unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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.

forget passcode

I.I: Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus in Recovery Mode.

iphone recovery mode

Step 3: Once in Recovery Mode, click Restore to unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus without passcode.

The Apple iPhone 15 Plus will be restored to factory settings and restarted. You will have to set it up afresh when all data on the Apple iPhone 15 Plus device is erased in this process.

I.II: Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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 15 Plus. And open Dr.Fone.

drfone app

Step 2: Find Unlock iOS Screen and click it:

drfone ios screen unlock

Step 3: The provided instructions help you to get the Apple iPhone 15 Plus into Recovery Mode:

recovery mode instructions in drfone

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

automatic detection device and software drfone

Step 5: When the downloaded software is verified, and the Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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.

unlock iphone without passcode

I.III: Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus Without Passcode Through The iCloud Website (Find My iPhone)

If the Apple iPhone 15 Plus had Find My enabled before it got locked, and you have the iCloud credentials that the Apple iPhone 15 Plus 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 15 Plus.

unlock iphone with icloud find my

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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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.

unlock iphone with find my app

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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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 15 Plus 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.

touch id

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 15 Plus is unparalleled. Yet, with that convenience comes the risk of forgetting the passcode to the Apple iPhone 15 Plus device, the need to enter the passcode is greatly minimized with Touch ID.

So, if you have forgotten your Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode and are looking for how to unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus without passcode, use this guide to pick one of the three easy ways to unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus in case of forgotten passcode.

How to Access Your Apple iPhone 15 Plus When You Forget the Passcode?

We all have secrets in our iPhone or some important financial or business data that we all wish to protect from unwanted access. For this, we set up a passcode. But what if Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode is forgotten by you? Well, you may now wonder how to perform Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode bypass, right? Worry no more! We’re right here to help you with the proven solutions for Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset without iTunes or with it too. Let’s explore.

Part 1. Unlock Apple iPhone 15 Plus screen passcode in one click (unlock tool needed)

The first and the ultimate measure for Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode removal in just a matter of a single click is Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . With the help of this mighty tool, performing Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset is even easier than any other alternative. Not only it can perform Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode bypass, you can also make use of this tool to bypass lock screen of an Android smartphone too. Isn’t it amazing? Moreover, this powerful tool works effortlessly with the latest iOS 13 version and even with the most recent iPhone models as well. Here is the step by step tutorial on Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode bypass.

Step 1: Install and launch Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Get the tool Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) downloaded and installed over your computer system. Then establish a connection between your computer and iPhone.

Now, launch the tool and then opt for the “Unlock” tile from the main screen.

launch Dr.Fone

Step 2: Boot in Recovery/DFU mode

Next move that you need to perform is to opt for the correct mode, i.e. “Unlock iOS Screen”. Then, you’ll be prompted to boot your device in Recovery/DFU mode. The on-screen instructions will guide you on how to do it.

opt for the correct mode

Step 3: Double-Check iPhone information

On the upcoming screen, you’ll be displayed the “Device Model” and most recent “System Version” which is compatible with your Apple iPhone 15 Plus. Simply, hit the “Start” button here.

iOS firmware version

Step 4: Perform Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode removal

Once, the software downloads the firmware automatically, you can then proceed to Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset. Hit the “Unlock Now” button over the next screen and in a short while you’ll be notified that Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode removal is completed.

passcode removal

Safe downloadsafe & secure

Part 2. Restore an iTunes backup for Apple iPhone 15 Plus

Here we’re going to be familiar with the Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset using the renowned iOS data management tool, iTunes. But be sure that iTunes version installed over your computer is up to date or else unknown errors may crop up in between. Eventually, your all-new Apple iPhone 15 Plus may even get bricked. Think this is it? Well, here’s another problem with iTunes, you need to get your Apple iPhone 15 Plus connected only to a pre-synced or pre-trusted computer. Or else, this tutorial won’t bring any good to you.

Step 1: First, get your Apple iPhone 15 Plus connected to your PC. Then, launch the iTunes most recent version. It will automatically detect your Apple iPhone 15 Plus. Once detected, tap the “Device” icon over the left top corner of iTunes.

Step 2: Then, hit the “Summary” option from the left panel and then you need to hit the “Restore iPhone” button. Confirm your actions by simply pushing the “Restore” button on the pop-up message and you’re done. Now, just wait for the process to complete.

iTunes backup restoring

Part 3. Restore Apple iPhone 15 Plus in recovery mode to remove screen passcode

If somehow, the above solution fails and you’re just not able to get Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset. You need to boot your device into recovery mode and then perform the factory reset. This would certainly wipe off everything from your Apple iPhone 15 Plus including the passcode as well. Here are the steps involved in booting your Apple iPhone 15 Plus in recovery mode.

  • First things first, power off your Apple iPhone 15 Plus by pushing the “Side” button down along with either of the “Volume” button. Keep them pressed till you get to see “Power-off” slider over your screen. Now, simply drag it to power off your device.
  • Next, connect your Apple iPhone 15 Plus and your computer firmly with the help of an authentic cable. Please make sure to press and hold the “Side” button meanwhile.
  • Ensure not to let go the Side button till the recovery mode screen appears over your Apple iPhone 15 Plus.

recovery mode

  • Once the Apple iPhone 15 Plus device is booted in recovery mode, iTunes will throw a pop up message that “iTunes has detected an iPhone in recovery mode”. Simply, hit the “OK” button over the message and then push the “Restore iPhone” button followed by confirming your actions.

confirm to restore

Part 4. Use “Find iPhone” from iCloud

The next pro tutorial for Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode removal is via iCloud. For this, grad access to any computer available on your side. Or, you can also make use of any other smartphone device but ensure it must be connected to a WiFi network or have an active data pack. Moreover, the locked iPhone on which you’re going to perform Apple iPhone 15 Plus passcode reset should also have an active internet connection to make this tutorial work.

Note: Since we’re going to unlock your Apple iPhone 15 Plus using Find My iPhone service of iCloud. It is important that “Find My iPhone” service was enabled beforehand over your Apple iPhone 15 Plus.

Step 1: Launch the browser over any other smartphone device or computer. Then, visit the official web page iCloud.com.

Step 2: Now, make use of same Apple account configured with your Apple iPhone 15 Plus to sign in to iCloud. Then, opt for the “Find My iPhone” icon over the launch pad.

find iphone from icloud

Step 3: Next, tap on the “All Devices” drop-down menu available over the top midsection and then select the Apple iPhone 15 Plus that you wish to bypass the passcode off.

Step 4: Then, you’ll get to witness a pop-up window over your screen. Tap the “Erase iPhone” button over it and then confirm your actions. All the settings and data will be wiped off remotely from your Apple iPhone 15 Plus now.

erase iPhone

Step 5: Lastly, wait for the process to complete and upon completion set up your device as usual.

Part 5. How about Apple iPhone 15 Plus restrictions passcode?

Apple iPhone 15 Plus restrictions is a vital setting that is used to lock down a set of functions of the iPhone. These iPhone restrictions are also known as Parental Controls. That implies one can make use of these settings to block or hide songs that have explicit lyrics/content or barring YouTube from running, etc.

It is vital to set up a 4 digit passcode if you want to use iPhone restriction settings. Now, if you somehow forgot the passcode that was set to make use of iPhone restrictions, you need to restore your Apple iPhone 15 Plus with the help of iTunes to remove the previous passcode. But ensure not to restore an old backup of iPhone or else, the old passcode which you may not know will also get activated. Eventually, making your situation even worse.

Reset/Change Apple iPhone 15 Plus restrictions passcode

Now, in case you know the Apple iPhone 15 Plus restrictions passcode and just wish to reset it. Then follow the streak of steps mentioned below.

  1. Launch “Settings” of your Apple iPhone 15 Plus and then get into “General” followed by “Restrictions”. Now, you’ll be asked to key in the current passcode.

restrictions passcode

  1. Once you’ve entered the current passcode, hit on the “Disable Restrictions” and to confirm your actions, key in your passcode when prompted.

restrictions passcode disabling

  1. Lastly, hit on “Enable Restrictions”. You’ll be asked to set up a new passcode now. Do it and you’re done.

set up a new passcode


  • Title: How to Unlock iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work
  • Author: Sophia
  • Created at : 2024-03-29 22:12:23
  • Updated at : 2024-04-01 11:57:47
  • Link: https://ios-unlock.techidaily.com/how-to-unlock-iphone-15-plus-with-an-apple-watch-and-what-to-do-if-it-doesnt-work-by-drfone-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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How to Unlock iPhone 15 Plus With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work