How to Factory Reset Locked iPhone without iTunes [2026 Updated]

When you forgot iPhone passcode and got locked out, performing a factory reset via iTunes might seem like a convenient and free option. However, sometimes you might be unable to access your computer and iTunes, or you may be in some wierd situation - iTunes doesn't recognize your iPhone, or there's no visible option to reset it.

Don't worry - you're not stuck. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to factory reset locked iPhone without iTunes, using 5 effective methods that are both easy and beginner-friendly.

Factory Reset Locked iPhone without iTunes (No Computer Required)

If your device is connected to a network and you remember your Apple Account credentials, you can use these official Apple methods to reset your phone remotely or directly from the screen. These methods don't need a computer.

Way 1: Via iOS Feature on iPhone

On iOS 15.2 and later versions, Apple offers a built-in option to erase iPhone directly on your locked iPhone screen. This is one of the easiest ways to factory reset a locked iPhone without iTunes, but it does require your Apple Account password.

Here's how to factory reset iPhone without iTunes via iOS 15.2 built-in feature from locked screen:

• Step 1. Keep entering incorrect passcodes until your screen shows: "iPhone is unavailable, please try again in 15 minute". At this point, you'll also see an "Erase iPhone" or "Forgot Passcode?" option at the bottom of the screen.
• Step 2. Tap "Erase iPhone" or "Forgot Passcode?" option, then tap on Start iPhone Reset if prompted.
• Step 3. Enter your Apple Account password to wipe and reset your iPhone.
• Step 4. After a few minutes, your iPhone will be completely reset. Once it's done, you can set it up as new.
• 

Way 2: Via Find My App on Another Apple Device

If you have another iPhone, iPad, or Mac that is signed in with the same Apple Account, you can use the "Find My" app to wipe the locked device remotely.

• Step 1. Open the Find My app on your other Apple device.
• Step 2. Tap the Devices tab at the bottom to see a list of your linked devices.
• Step 3. Select your locked iPhone from the list.
• Step 4. Scroll down to the Erase option and follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the erasure.
• 

Way 3: Via icloud.com on Another Device

This method is useful if you don't have another Apple device but do have access to a web browser on any phone.

• Step 1. Navigate to www.icloud.com on any web browser and log in with your Apple Account and password.
• Step 2. Click on the Find My icon.
• Step 3. In the "All Devices" dropdown menu, select your locked iPhone.
• Step 4. Click the Erase button. A prompt will appear asking for confirmation and your Apple Account password to finalize the request.
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Factory Reset Locked iPhone without iTunes But with Computer

If you have forgotten your Apple Account password or the methods above are not working due to network or authentication issues, you will need to use a computer to restore your device.

Way 1: Via TunesKit iPhone Unlocker

When standard recovery methods fail, a professional tool can be a reliable emergency solution. TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is designed to help you regain access when you are locked out or lack the necessary credentials, even if the iCloud Avtivation lock is active.

In addition, it is friendly to users and doesn't require related knowledge. All you have to do is the following few steps:

Step 1Launch TunesKit iPhone Unlocker

Download and open Tuneskit iPhone Unlocker on your computer, you will see the main screen of it. Then click "Unlock iOS Screen" and then click the Start button.

Step 2Put Your iPhone into Recovery Mode or DFU Mode

Follow the on-screen instruction to put your device into DFU Mode or Recovery Mode.

Step 3Confirm iDevice Information and Download Correct Firmware Package

Once your iPhone is detected, confirm the model, iOS version, and other info. If anything is incorrect, you can adjust it manually. Then, click "Download" to get the firmware package.

Step 4Start to Remove Locked Screen on iPhone

Once the firmware is downloaded, click the "Unlock" button. Within minutes, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker will factory reset locked iPhone without iTunes and Apple Account password.

Way 2: Via Finder on Mac

If you're using a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, you won't find iTunes - it's been replaced by Finder for device management. But don't worry, you can still factory reset a locked iPhone without iTunes by these steps through Finder.

• Step 1. Turn off your iPhone. The method varies depending on your iPhone model.
• Step 2. Enter your iPhone into the Recovery Mode. Press and hold the correct button for your model while immediately connecting your iPhone to your Mac:

• iPhone 8 or newer: Hold the Side button + Volume Down button until the Power Off slider appears and shut down your iPhone. Then, hold the Side button.
• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Hold the Side button until the slider appears and shut down iPhone. Hold the Volume Down button.
• iPhone SE (1st gen), iPhone 6s, or earlier: Hold the Top button to shut down iPhone. Then, hold the Home button.

• Step 3. Open Finder on your Mac. You should see your iPhone appear in the left-hand sidebar under "Locations."
• Step 4. When prompted by your Mac to either update or restore the device, select Restore.
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• Step 5. Finder will download the latest iOS software and perform a factory reset. Once the process is finished, you can disconnect your iPhone and set it up as a new device.

FAQs on How to Factory Reset A Locked iPhone without iTunes

Conclusion

This's all about how to factory reset locked iPhone without iTunes. If you know your Apple Account password, you can easily do it via locked screen, Find My app or iCloud; if not, professional tools like TunesKit iPhone Unlocker and Finder on Mac can help you too. If you are interested in it, click the button below and try it for free!