In 2024, How To Fix Auto Lock Greyed Out on iPhone SE

How To Fix Auto Lock Greyed Out on Apple iPhone SE

Auto-lock on iOS devices serves multiple purposes - it conserves battery life, secures your data, and more. But have you encountered the Auto-Lock greyed-out dilemma, fixed at 30 seconds? When this setting becomes inaccessible, it limits your control over screen timeout.

Read on if you’ve encountered a similar problem on your iOS device. In this guide, we’ll explore the possible reasons and offer steps to fix Auto-Lock greyed out on iPhone and iPad devices. If force restarts or settings resets haven’t worked for you, we’ve got alternative solutions. Let’s get started.

Part 1: Why Is Auto-Lock Greyed Out on iOS Device?

There are a few reasons why the Auto-Lock might be greyed out on your Apple iPhone SE or iPad device, preventing you from adjusting the duration. Here are the most common culprits:

Low Power Mode

When you activate Low Power Mode on your iOS device, you might notice the screen automatically locking after 30 seconds of inactivity. This quick sleep setting, implemented to minimize power usage, explains why the Auto-Lock option appears greyed out and inaccessible.

Screen Time Restrictions

Screen Time restrictions can impact Auto-Lock. For instance, if your downtime schedule blocks all apps, the screen locks itself, even if the Auto-Lock timer hasn’t run out.

MDM Profile Restrictions

If the Auto-Lock is greyed out on your iPad or iPhone and you use it for work or school, a Mobile Device Management (MDM) profile might be the reason. This profile restricts settings, including Auto-Lock. To fix this, contact your IT administrator and ask if they can adjust the MDM profile settings.

Alright, you know the possible reasons why the Auto-Lock option is not working on your iOS device. Still, you might be wondering how to fix the Auto-Lock greyed-out issue. Below are several ways to get your iPad or iPhone Auto-Lock working normally again.

Fix No.1: Disable Low Power Mode

Your iPhone Auto-Lock greyed out because Low Power Mode limits background activities, including the Auto-Lock option. In this mode, you cannot change the Auto-Lock settings. Turn off Low Power Mode to fix this issue and choose your preferred timeout. Here’s how:

Step 1: Go to your Apple iPhone SE or iPad’s Settings app.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap Battery. It will show you your device’s battery usage and available settings.
Step 3: Turn off the Low Power Mode. Now, the greyed-out Auto-Lock option in Settings should be available again.

Low Battery Mode can stretch your battery life further. But if you need your screen to stay on longer, like while reading an article or watching a video, you can turn it off. It lets you adjust the screen timeout in Settings so it stays awake for as long as you like.

Fix No.2: Check Screen Time Restrictions

You’ve ruled out the Low Power Mode, but the Auto-Lock greyed out on iPad or iPhone remains. If Low Power Mode isn’t causing the problem, your screen time settings might be the issue. Some app restrictions can limit your screen use to specific times, causing it to lock automatically. Resolve this by removing limits, such as downtime and app restrictions, or turning it off.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
Step 2: Go to Screen Time, then scroll down.
Step 3: Tap Turn Off Screen Time.

Fix No.3: Remove MDM Configuration Profile

A configuration profile is a file that contains settings and restrictions that can be applied to an iOS device. Organizations, schools, or IT administrators often use it to manage devices remotely and enforce specific configurations. Once installed, the settings within a profile override the Apple iPhone SE device’s default settings. It can include restrictions related to security, network access, app usage, and more.

Since an MDM configuration profile causes limitations, like the greyed-out Auto-Lock on iPad, removing it can be the solution. Doing so frees your iOS device from external settings imposed by the profile. Then, it could allow you to adjust the Auto-Lock time setting as you normally would.

Step 1: See the configuration profiles you installed on your iOS device.
Go to Settings> General > VPN & Device Management on your Apple iPhone SE.
Go to Settings> General > Profiles & Device Management on your iPad.
Step 2: Select the configuration profile you need to delete.
Step 3: Tap Remove Profile, enter your device passcode, then tap Remove.

Fix No.4: Remove Network Settings Installed by MDM

Businesses often use Mobile Device Management (MDM) to remotely manage their employees’ iPhones and iPads. MDM lets IT admins push software updates, restrict apps, and remotely wipe a lost device. This keeps corporate data safe and devices under control, whether the company or the employee owns them.

If you’re having trouble with a greyed-out Auto-Lock timeout setting, disassociating your device from MDM might be an option. But remember, this is a big step. Make sure you follow your company’s authorized procedures to avoid unintended consequences.

If your IT team gives the green light, you might also be able to remove the network settings installed by MDM. Just proceed with caution, as messing with these settings could lead to instability or data loss. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
Step 2: Navigate to General > Profile or VPN & Device Management (or a similar section).
Step 3: Select the management and tap Remove Management.

If the option is unavailable, only the person who used Apple Configurator 2 or handles your company’s mobile device management platform can remove it.

Fix No.5: Use Dr.Fone To Bypass MDM Lock Without Data Loss

Unfortunately, manually removing profiles can be tricky, especially if they’re associated with MDM, Apple School Manager, or supervised configurations. These often require the removal of passwords, admin privileges, or complete data wipes. But there’s good news. Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) provides a simpler and safer solution.

Here’s why you should try it:

**Speedy and Efficient:**No more endless troubleshooting. Dr.Fone bypasses the MDM lock in minutes, saving you precious time.
**Data Stays Safe:**Unlike factory resets, Dr.Fone keeps all your precious photos, messages, and apps right where they belong.
**No Jailbreaking:**Say goodbye to complex hacks and warranty voiding. Dr.Fone works without jailbreaking your Apple iPhone SE, keeping it healthy and secure.
**Universal Compatibility:**Whether you own the latest iPhone with iOS 17 or an older version, Dr.Fone has your back. It supports all iOS devices and versions starting from iOS 7.0.

Have you ever bought a used iPad or Apple iPhone SE to find the Auto-Lock option greyed out and isn’t working? Mobile Device Management (MDM) profiles, often deployed by companies or schools, can restrict functionality. If you lack the credentials to bypass or remove it, Dr.Fone can help remove all MDM restrictions on your iOS device. Here’s how:

Step 1: Download and open Dr.Fone on your computer. Next, connect your Apple iPhone SE or iPad to the computer using a USB cable and navigate to Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS.

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Step 2: Within the Screen Unlock tool window, select Unlock MDM iPhone.

Step 3: Select Bypass MDM, then click Get Start to proceed.

Step 4: Please review the message carefully before initiating the MDM bypass process. Once you’ve read it, click Start to Bypass to proceed.

Step 5: If prompted, go to your device’s Settings > Apple ID > iCloud and turn off the Find My feature. Next, click OK to initiate the MDM bypass.

Step 6: The software will display the progress of the bypass. Wait for it to complete.

Step 7: You’ll see a confirmation message once the bypass is successful. Click Done to exit. Your device should now be free from MDM restrictions.

Fix No.6: Check and Adjust Auto-Lock Settings

Once you’ve tried all the fixes above, you might need to set up the Auto-Lock timeout again.

Setup Auto-Lock on iPad

Here are the steps on how to change Auto-Lock on iPad devices:

Step 1: Within the Settings app, scroll down the list on the left-hand side and tap Display & Brightness.
Step 2: On the right-hand side of the Display & Brightness screen, tap the Auto-Lock option.

Step 3: A list of time options will appear, ranging from 2 minutes to 15 minutes, as well as Never. Select the time you want your iPad to wait before automatically locking the screen after inactivity. If you want the screen to stay on indefinitely, choose Never.

Step 4: Once you’ve selected your preferred auto-lock duration, you can exit the Settings app. The change will be applied automatically.

Setup Auto-Lock on iPhone

Here’s how to change Auto-Lock on iPhone devices:

Step 1: Open the Settings app.
Step 2: Tap on Display & Brightness, scroll down, and tap Auto-Lock.
Step 3: Choose the desired time interval for your Apple iPhone SE to automatically lock. The available options typically range from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. You may also have the option to select Never if you prefer to have the screen stay on indefinitely until you manually lock it.

Conclusion

There you have it. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge and solutions to fix the Auto-Lock greyed out on your Apple iPhone SE or iPad devices. From identifying the reasons like Low Power Mode and MDM configurations to implementing actionable fixes, you can now change your screen timeout. So, turn off those restrictions, remove MDM profiles, and head back to Settings.

For an easy solution, use Dr.Fone Screen Unlock to bypass MDM restrictions, giving you control over your device. Whether it’s a work phone or a personal device under MDM, Dr.Fone can offer an efficient solution. With a few clicks, you’ll have the Auto-Lock back on track, ensuring your iOS device works again just how you want it.

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How to Unlock Apple iPhone SE Without Passcode?

It’s a frustrating situation where you forgot your Apple iPhone SE’s passcode and are now unable to unlock it. Unfortunately, if you are experiencing this situation with your Apple iPhone SE, you must be looking to learn how to unlock Apple iPhone SE without a passcode.

There are many ways to unlock the Apple iPhone SE without a passcode. You not only do it with the help of iPhone’s stock features like Find My Apple iPhone SE or iTunes, but you can also use third-party methods to unlock the Apple iPhone SE lock screen.

So, let’s get straight to the different methods to unlock the Apple iPhone SE lock screen.

4 Easy Methods to Unlock Apple iPhone SE without Passcode

Following are the four different methods to unlock Apple iPhone SE without a passcode:

Method #1: Unlock iPhone Screen Passcode With iTunes

Unlocking an iPhone through iTunes is one of the most common ways. If you have forgotten your Apple iPhone SE passcode, you can use iTunes to erase your device and reset it to its factory settings. This will remove the passcode, but it will also delete all of your data. If your device has a backup, you can use iTunes to restore your data after erasing your device.

Follow the steps to do this.

First, connect your Apple iPhone SE to your computer and launch iTunes. You will have to install it if you don’t have it on your computer. For installation, click here and download
Once you launch iTunes, you see few devices available to connect. So, select your device from the list.
Now you will have two options under your Apple iPhone SE’s specifications. So you will have to click on the other option named Restore iPhone.
By clicking this button, you will be asked again for confirmation. After confirmation, iTunes will wipe out everything on your Apple iPhone SE, and once the process is completed, you will be able to unlock your Apple iPhone SE XR lock screen without any passcode.

Method #2: Unlock It Via Find My iPhone

If the above-given method is not helpful or you haven’t used iTunes before, we have another solution. You can use the “Find My iPhone” feature to erase your device and unlock it. This is useful when you quickly want to unlock your Apple iPhone SE without a passcode.

All you have to do is follow the steps given below.

Log in to the iCloud website on your MacBook or Computer. For this, you will need to use your Apple ID and Password that you are using on your Apple iPhone SE.
Once you are logged in to iCloud, you will see many options and features but look for the Find My iPhone option.
Once you find it, click on it, and you will see a few more options, and one of them would be Erase iPhone.
You will have to click on it, showing you a confirmation message to erase all your data on your Apple iPhone SE.
Confirm it, and your Apple iPhone SE will be restored to the factory settings, and all your data will be removed.
Once the process is completed, you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE X lock screen without any passcode.

Method #3: Remove Passcode With Tapping Erase Phone (iOS 15.2 only)

If both above-given methods don’t work for you, or you don’t have access to a computer or MacBook to use those methods, there is a 3rd method for you. But it only works on iPhones with iOS 15.2 versions.

With this method, you can follow the steps below to remove the screen lock passcode on Apple iPhone SE.

First, you must try unlocking your Apple iPhone SE with all the possible passcodes you remember.
When you try too many wrong passcode attempts, iPhone will show you a message that states that your Apple iPhone SE is locked for 1-15 minutes.
By this message, you will also see another option at the bottom right corner named Erase iPhone.
By clicking this option, you will be asked about your Apple ID and Password that you have used on this iPhone.
So provide them, and you will be able to erase your Apple iPhone SE, and in the end, your Apple iPhone SE will be unlocked without needing a passcode or password.

Method #4: Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock

This is the most effective and easiest way to remove or break your Apple iPhone SE passcode. You can use this method if all the above methods don’t work for you or you don’t remember your Apple ID or Password.

Here are some easy steps that you should take.

Step #1: Download Dr.Fone Tool

First, you must go to your computer or MacBook and download the Dr.Fone tool. You can follow the link to download and install this tool for free.

Step #2: Connect Your Apple iPhone SE

After installing Dr.Fone on your computer, you will need to launch the Software and connect your Apple iPhone SE using the original iPhone’s cable.

(Using the original iPhone cable will make it easy to connect your Apple iPhone SE to the computer)

Step #3: Take your Apple iPhone SE to Recovery Mode:

Once your Apple iPhone SE is successfully connected, you must take it to recovery or DFU mode. For this, follow the instructions given below.

Step #4: Download Firmware

When your Apple iPhone SE enters into recovery mode, you will see a Start button on Dr.Fone. So, you will have to select the correct iPhone and software model and click the Start button.

It will download the iOS firmware for your Apple iPhone SE.

Step #5: Unlock iPhone X or XR Lock Screen

Once the downloading is completed, you will need to click on Unlock Now button, and the process to unlock your Apple iPhone SE X lock screen will begin.

Once the process is completed, you can unlock your Apple iPhone SE XR lock screen without the passcode.

FAQs

Following are 3 frequently asked questions that might come into your mind and their answers to help you understand everything.

How to remove the passcode on an iOS device?

First, open the Settings menu and scroll down to the Touch ID & Passcode option. Here, you will need to enter your current passcode to disable it.

Once done, toggle the switch next to the Passcode option to the Off position. You can then enter your passcode once more to confirm that you wish to disable it.

After doing this, your iOS device will no longer require a passcode to be accessed.

Can local Apple support help me to unlock my Apple iPhone SE?

The answer is yes!

Here’s how.

Take your Apple iPhone SE to the nearest Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Please contact them, and bring your proof of purchase and other relevant documentation.

First, they will confirm that you are the actual owner of the Apple iPhone SE; after that, they will help you to unlock your Apple iPhone SE lock screen.

Why was my Apple iPhone SE locked?

There are some causes why your Apple iPhone SE X or XR may be locked. One is that you entered the wrong passcode too many times. If in the situation, you’ll need to wait a certain amount of time before you can try again.

Another possibility is that someone tried to break into your phone using an illegal passcode-guessing tool. If this happens, your phone will be locked for a more extended period.

Finally, if you have an Apple iPhone SE with Face ID, it’s possible that your phone was locked because it didn’t recognize your face. You ought to enter your passcode to unlock your phone if this is the case.

The Bottom Line

So, these are some most effective methods to follow and unlock the Apple iPhone SE XR lock screen without a passcode. All the methods discussed are excellent and working, but the most convenient way is using the Wondershare Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock. It is a perfect tool that can be used to unlock different iPhone lock screens. Moreover, it is very safe and easy to use. So, we recommend you use this tool to unlock your Apple iPhone SE lock screen without a passcode.

Apple iPhone SE Asking for Passcode after iOS 17/14 Update, What to Do?

If you’ve recently updated your iOS iPhone and iPad to the iOS 17/14 operating system, you may notice a bit of a bug where the Apple iPhone SE displays the passcode lock, even if you haven’t got a security code in place.

This obviously means you won’t be able to access your phone, and in many cases, you’re going to want to get back into your phone as quickly as possible. However, this may be easier said than done. Fortunately, today we’re going to go through multiple solutions to help you get your device working as it should!

Part 1. Don’t try passcodes blindly

One of the worst things you can do when faced with this situation is to enter passcodes blindly. Perhaps you’re trying random numbers and letters, or you’re trying passwords you’ve used in the past. If you get it wrong, you’re going to be locked out of your device for a long time.

The more times you get your code wrong, the longer you’ll be locked out, so avoid doing this at all costs, so make sure you move straight onto these approaches to get your phone working as quickly as possible.

Part 2. 5 ways to unlock iPhone after iOS 17/14 Update

2.1 Try a default passcode in your family

While we said, you shouldn’t type in random numbers to try and guess the password, of course, if you have a standard family passcode that you use across all iOS devices, perhaps an admin password or just something you use for everything, it can be well worth a try.

In reality, you get three attempts to put a passcode in before it locks you out, so try two passcodes that your family uses to see whether this will easily unlock your device. If you brought your device preowned and still have contact with the owner, they may have a passcode you can try.

2.2 Unlock iPhone with an unlock tool

The second approach you can take if you don’t know the passcode and can’t get it unlocked is to use a powerful software solution known as Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . This Wondershare software application completely unlocks your phone, even if you don’t know the passcode.

This software is easy to use and incredibly simple, yet it gets the job done. If you’re looking for a quick way to get your iOS device back up and running with full access after an iOS 17/14 update, it doesn’t get much better than this. Here’s how it works;

Step 1. Download and install the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) software to either your Mac or Windows PC and open it, so you’re on the homepage. Connect your iOS device to your computer using the USB cable and wait for the software to recognize your device.

When it does, close iTunes if it automatically opens and clicks the Screen Unlock option from the main menu.

Step 2. Click the Unlock iOS Screen option.

Step 3. You will now need to put your device in DFU mode, also known as Recovery Mode. Fortunately, this is easy thanks to the on-screen instructions where you will hold down the volume down and power button for a few seconds.

Step 4. Once Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) has detected your device in DFU Mode. You’ll be able to select which device you’re using and what firmware you want to be repaired; in this case, iOS 17/14.

Step 5. Once everything has been confirmed and you’re happy to continue, press the Unlock option. The program will do its thing, and when it’s done, the software will say you’re able to disconnect your Apple iPhone SE and use it without a lock screen!

That’s how easy Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) makes the entire unlock process!

2.3 Restore an old backup from iTunes

Another key way that some users have found to unlock their device after an update is to restore their device to an older version, aiming to put your device back into a position where it didn’t have a lock screen.

It’s only possible to do this if you’ve backed up your iOS device in the past (which is why you’re encouraged to back up regularly), and it can all be done through the iTunes software on either your Mac or Windows computer. Here’s how it works;

Step 1. Ensure you’re running the latest version of iTunes and then connect your iOS device to your Mac or Windows computer using the official USB cable. This should automatically open the iTunes window.

Step 2. In iTunes, click the symbol representing your device and then click Summary. On this screen, you’ll be able to choose the Restore iPhone option at the top to begin the restoring process.

Step 3. Follow the onscreen instructions where you’ll choose which backup file you want to use before iTunes, then restores your device. When the software has completed the process, you’ll be able to disconnect your Apple iPhone SE and use it without a lock screen!

2.4 Restore in recovery mode

In some cases, restoring your device using just iTunes will not be good enough, and it won’t have the effect you’re looking for; in this case, restoring your device with no lock screen after an iOS 17/14 update.

If the above method of restoring your device via iTunes doesn’t work, or you haven’t got a backup file to load, you’ll need to restore your device using a move known as Recovery Mode, or DFU mode. This will hard reset your device and get it working to its full potential.

Here’s how to do it. (Note, the process will differ slightly depending on which model of iPhone you’re using).

Step 1. Press and hold the volume up button for about one second, and then switch and press the Volume Down button for the same amount of time. You can then hold the side button (on devices without a home button), and the following screen should appear after a few seconds.

Step 2. Now connect your Apple iPhone SE to your computer with iTunes and wait for iTunes to open. Make sure you’re running the latest version of iTunes before connecting up your device. Also, make sure you’re using the official USB cable for the most stability.

Step 3. iTunes should automatically detect that your device is in Recovery Mode and automatically restore your device to a default state without a lock screen. Wait until this process is completed before disconnecting your device and using it as normal.

2.5 Use Find My iPhone feature in iCloud

The fifth and final approach you can take to removing a lock screen from your recently updated iPhone or iPad when faced with the iOS 17/14 glitch is taking advantage of the integrated Apple technology and features are known as Find My iPhone.

While this feature originally allows you to literally find your Apple iPhone SE in the situation where it’s lost and offers many other security features to help ensure your device and data don’t fall into the wrong hands, you can also use it to remove your device unwanted lock screen.

Of course, this will only work if the Find My iPhone features have been enabled in the past, so make sure you’re using it to get it to work. Here’s how to use the feature to get your phone access back.

Step 1. From your computer, iPad, tablet, or mobile web browser, head over to iCloud.com and log into your iCloud account using the login in button at the top of the screen.

Step 2. Once signed in, scroll down the menu of features and select the Find iPhone feature. Click on the All Devices option at the top.

Step 3. From the list of devices connected to your account, click the Apple iPhone SE device name with the locked screen and then click the Erase option. This will clear everything from your device, much like the process we’ve spoken about in the methods above.

Leave the Apple iPhone SE device to erase, and once completed, you’ll be able to pick up and use your phone as normal without a lock screen. You should also now be able to update to iOS 17/14 without any problems!

Summary

And there you go, the five key ways you need to know when it comes to removing an unwanted lock screen from your iOS device after an iOS 17/14 update. We highly recommend the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) since the software makes the whole process incredibly easy, especially when managing any problems you may have on your iOS device!

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