In 2024, How to Unlock iPhone 13 With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work

In 2024, How to Unlock iPhone 13 With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work

Sophia Lv12

How to Unlock Apple iPhone 13 With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesn’t Work

man wearing apple watch with Apple iPhone 13 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 13’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 13’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 13.

Now, you cannot just unlock any Apple iPhone 13 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.

BLUETTI NEW LAUNCH AC240

Part 1. Can I Use an Apple Watch To Unlock My Apple iPhone 13?

phone, earphones, and apple watch on a table

The Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13 With Apple Watch

unlock requirements

Unfortunately, not every Apple iPhone 13 can be unlocked with your Apple Watch, and not every Apple Watch can unlock your Apple iPhone 13. 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 13 with Face ID – Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13 Face ID.

Part 3. How To Unlock Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13;

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 13 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 13 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 13. If you accidentally unlock your phone, simply tap on the Lock Apple iPhone 13 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 13, you’ll first need to type in your passcode.

Part 4. What To Do if You Can’t Unlock Your Apple iPhone 13 With a Watch

person wearing face mask unlocking their Apple iPhone 13

Generally speaking, unlocking your Apple iPhone 13 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 13 with your Apple Watch.

If you’re using the correct versions of Apple iPhone 13 (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 13.

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

2. Restart Your WiFi/Bluetooth Connection

Your Apple iPhone 13 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 13’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 13 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 13

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 13 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 13 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 13 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 13’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 13 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 13 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 13 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.

How to Access Your Apple iPhone 13 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 13 passcode is forgotten by you? Well, you may now wonder how to perform Apple iPhone 13 passcode bypass, right? Worry no more! We’re right here to help you with the proven solutions for Apple iPhone 13 passcode reset without iTunes or with it too. Let’s explore.

Part 1. Unlock Apple iPhone 13 screen passcode in one click (unlock tool needed)

The first and the ultimate measure for Apple iPhone 13 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 13 passcode reset is even easier than any other alternative. Not only it can perform Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13. Simply, hit the “Start” button here.

iOS firmware version

Step 4: Perform Apple iPhone 13 passcode removal

Once, the software downloads the firmware automatically, you can then proceed to Apple iPhone 13 passcode reset. Hit the “Unlock Now” button over the next screen and in a short while you’ll be notified that Apple iPhone 13 passcode removal is completed.

passcode removal

Safe download safe & secure

Part 2. Restore an iTunes backup for Apple iPhone 13

Here we’re going to be familiar with the Apple iPhone 13 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 13 may even get bricked. Think this is it? Well, here’s another problem with iTunes, you need to get your Apple iPhone 13 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 13 connected to your PC. Then, launch the iTunes most recent version. It will automatically detect your Apple iPhone 13. 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 13 in recovery mode to remove screen passcode

If somehow, the above solution fails and you’re just not able to get Apple iPhone 13 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 13 including the passcode as well. Here are the steps involved in booting your Apple iPhone 13 in recovery mode.

  • First things first, power off your Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13.

recovery mode

  • Once the Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13 passcode reset should also have an active internet connection to make this tutorial work.

Note: Since we’re going to unlock your Apple iPhone 13 using Find My iPhone service of iCloud. It is important that “Find My iPhone” service was enabled beforehand over your Apple iPhone 13.

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 13 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 13 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 13 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 13 restrictions passcode?

Apple iPhone 13 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 13 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 13 restrictions passcode

Now, in case you know the Apple iPhone 13 restrictions passcode and just wish to reset it. Then follow the streak of steps mentioned below.

  1. Launch “Settings” of your Apple iPhone 13 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

How To Unlock A Found Apple iPhone 13?

What to do if you find an iPhone? If you are here, you might have found an iPhone, and now you want to know how to unlock someone’s iPhone. Well, you should first try to find the owner, but if you can’t find the owner, it’s probably because you need help finding information about them.

That is why you want to unlock that iPhone. So, in this article, we will teach you how to unlock someone’s iPhone with different methods. These methods will be constructive for you to quickly unlock the Apple iPhone 13 so you can return it to the rightful owner.

So, let’s get started.

3 Efficient Ways to Unlock a Found iPhone

Unlocking an iPhone seems challenging, especially when it’s not yours, but it’s not impossible. You have various ways to unlock a found iPhone, but most are a waste of time. So, to save time and energy, we have compiled 3 efficient ways to unlock a found iPhone.

i found an iphone how do i unlock it

These methods will be easy to follow because of the detailed step-by-step guide.

1.Unlock it from Recovery mode

Many people need to realize that you can unlock your Apple iPhone 13 in Recovery Mode. This built-in feature of the Apple iPhone 13 allows you to turn your device to its factory settings.

unlock found iphone in recovery mode with itunes

But there are two ways to unlock a found iPhone from recovery mode. The old iPhones, like iPhone 5 to iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, can be unlocked from recovery mode differently, and the newer iPhone models have different methods.

So, let’s discuss both of them in detail.

Unlock iPhone 7 Plus and Older in Recovery Mode

If you want to unlock an iPhone 7 or older model in Recovery Mode, follow these instructions.

put iphone 7 plus or older in recovery mode

  1. First, connect your Apple iPhone 13 to the computer with a lightning cable and launch iTunes.
  2. Now, turn off your Apple iPhone 13 and then press and hold the Home button and Sleep/Wake button simultaneously. Keep holding both buttons until you see the recovery mode screen.
  3. Once you see the recovery mode screen, release both buttons. Now, you will see a message in iTunes saying, “There is a problem with the Apple iPhone 13 that requires it to be updated or restored.”
  4. Click on the Update button, and iTunes will try reinstalling iOS erasing your data. Once the process is completed, your Apple iPhone 13 will be unlocked.

Now, set up your Apple iPhone 13, and you are good to go.

Unlock iPhone 8 and Update Models in Recovery Mode

The process of unlocking an iPhone 8 or newer model differs from the older models. So, follow these instructions if you want to unlock an iPhone 8 or later in Recovery Mode.

put iphone 8 and newer iphones in recovery mode

  1. First, connect your Apple iPhone 13 to the computer with a lightning cable and launch iTunes.
  2. Now, turn off your Apple iPhone 13 and press and quickly release the Volume Up button. After that, press and release the Volume Down button immediately, and hold the Side button until you are in the recovery mode screen.
  3. Once you see the recovery mode screen, release the Side button. Now, you will see a message in iTunes that says, “There is a problem with the Apple iPhone 13 that requires it to be updated or restored.” Or another message that says restore this iPhone. You can click on any option.
  4. Click on the Update or Restore button, and iTunes will try reinstalling iOS while also erasing your data. Once the process is completed, your Apple iPhone 13 will be unlocked.

Now, set up your Apple iPhone 13, and you are good to go.

2. Unlock it via the DNS server

If the above method doesn’t work or iTunes is not detecting that iPhone, you can follow this method.

found iphone how to unlock via dns

  1. This method is easy to follow and doesn’t require any technical skills.
  2. All you need is the DNS server IP address.
  3. Connect your Apple iPhone 13 to the Wi-Fi network and go to Settings -> Wi-Fi. Now, tap the “i” button next to the Wi-Fi network you need to connect to.
  4. Scroll down and tap on the Configure DNS option. Now, select the Manual option and enter the DNS server IP address.
  5. For US servers, you can use 74.82.42.42 or 208.67.222.222
  6. For UK servers, you can use 8.8.8.8 or 8.8.4.4
  7. For Canadian servers, you can use 199.85.126.10 or 208.67.222.222
  8. For Australian servers, you can use 1.1.1.1 or 208.67.222.222
  9. After that, tap the Save button and connect to the Wi-Fi network. Now, open the Safari browser, redirecting you to the activation screen.
  10. Follow the instructions on the screen, and your Apple iPhone 13 will be unlocked.

3. Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock

If none of the above methods can be used for you, there is an ultimate method that will surely help you if you want to unlock a found iPhone.

Here are the simple steps that can help you.

  1. First, connect your Apple iPhone 13 to the computer with a lightning cable and launch Dr.Fone on your computer.

drfone screen unlock

  1. Now, click on the Screen Unlock option from the main interface.
  2. After that, click on the iOS Screen Unlock to begin the process.

unlock found iphone via unlock ios screen

  1. Now, put your Apple iPhone 13 in DFU mode or Recovery mode according to your Apple iPhone 13 model.
  2. If you have no idea about it, don’t worry. The software will provide on-screen instructions to help you put your Apple iPhone 13 in DFU mode or Recovery mode.

dfu mode

  1. Once your Apple iPhone 13 is in DFU mode or Recovery mode, the software will ask you to start downloading the necessary firmware for your device. So, choose an appropriate firmware according to the Apple iPhone 13 model.

unlock ios screen by drfone

  1. After downloading the firmware, click the Unlock Now button to begin the unlocking process.

start unlocking found iphone

  1. Once the process is completed, your Apple iPhone 13 will be unlocked, and you can set it up again.

unlock ios screen

So that’s how you can easily unlock a found iPhone. This method has been tested, and it will surely work for you. So, if you have an iPhone that is locked or disabled, you can use this method to unlock it without any problem.

What Can I Do to Contact Its Owner?

Once the found iPhone is successfully unlocked, you can contact its owner in many ways.

Following are some of them that work.

Contact the owner with the phone number in lost mode

Many iPhone owners habitually put their phone numbers in lost mode. So, you can check if any phone number is available in the lost mode. If a phone number is available, you can contact the owner and return the Apple iPhone 13 to them.

contact the owner with the phone number in lost mode

The rightful owner of the Apple iPhone 13 activates lost mode. You can see the lost mode on the notification panel, where a message will show that the phone is lost. The owner can also remotely lock the phone using this mode.

Check medical ID in an emergency call

There is a feature in the Apple iPhone 13 known as medical ID. This feature can help you contact the owner of the found iPhone if they are unavailable.

contact the owner with the help of emergency medical id

To do this, go to the emergency call screen and tap on the Medical ID option. Here, you can find out the name and phone number of the owner. So, you can use this information to contact the owner and return the iPhone.

Take photos to communicate with the owner via iCloud

This is a great way to contact the owner of a lost iPhone. You can use this method if you cannot find the owner’s phone number in the lost mode or medical ID.

contact the owner with the picloud share photo library

To do this, go to Settings -> iCloud -> Photos and turn on the iCloud Photo Library. Now, take some pictures with the found iPhone, and they will be automatically uploaded to iCloud.

Most people who have lost their iPhones often check their iCloud, and once they find out that someone is taking pictures and uploading them to their iCloud, they will try to communicate with you.

And that’s how you can also communicate with them and ask for contact details so that you can return their phone and be a good citizen.

The Bottom Line

So, that’s how you can unlock a found iPhone and contact its owner. I hope this article will help you find the lost iPhone owner and return it to them.

All the methods mentioned above have a high success ratio, but the last ultimate method is better than all because it will unlock the Apple iPhone 13 within minutes.

Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock is one of the most effective ways can help you to unlock a found iPhone. This method has been tested, and it will surely work for you. So, if you have an iPhone that is locked or disabled, you can use this method to unlock it without any problem.


  • Title: In 2024, How to Unlock iPhone 13 With an Apple Watch & What to Do if It Doesnt Work
  • Author: Sophia
  • Created at : 2024-07-15 01:50:09
  • Updated at : 2024-07-16 01:50:09
  • Link: https://ios-unlock.techidaily.com/in-2024-how-to-unlock-iphone-13-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.