Touch ID Requires Passcode When iPhone Restarts: Why and How to Fix

Part 1: Why does Touch ID need a PIN when the iPhone starts up again?

"Whenever I restart my iPhone, I see a message on the lock screen that says Touch ID requires passcode." Why do you need to enter your passcode to use Touch ID? Since iOS 9, Apple updated the rules governing Touch ID. Here's why you're asked to enter a passcode:

1. iPhone Restarted or Powered Off: If your iPhone has been turned off or restarted
2. Device Unlocked After 48 Hours: If your iPhone has not been unlocked within 48 hours
3. Failed Fingerprint Attempts: Five consecutive failed fingerprint attempts will lead to a prompt to enter the passcode.
4. Remote Lock from iCloud: If you receive a remote lock command through iCloud, Touch ID requires a passcode.
5. Emergency SOS On: Pressing Emergency SOS will set off an automatic response.
6. Fingerprint Changes: If you enrolled or deleted a fingerprint from your device, you'll need to enter your passcode.
7. Inactivity with Touch ID: If you haven't used Touch ID to unlock your screen for more than 8 hours, Touch ID requires a passcode
8. Passcode Not Used in 6 Days: If your passcode hasn’t been used to unlock the iPhone in the last 6 days, Touch ID requires a passcode. It will not work until the passcode is entered.

Part 2: Problems with "Touch ID Requires Passcode" Fixed

Finally, you understand why your touch ID requires your passcode when your iPhone restarts. We will talk about different ways to get past iPhone passcodes in this section.

Method 1: Use iTunes to restore your iPhone and unlock it

If Touch ID requires passcode when iPhone restarts and you can't remember it, you can use iTunes to restore your device. This method will allow you to regain access to your iPhone, but it comes with a drawback: all data on your iPhone will be erased, leaving it as a blank slate. Therefore, it's crucial to back up your data beforehand to avoid losing important information.

Step 1: Install and Launch iTunes

Initially, confirm that iTunes is installed on your Windows computer to the most recent version. It's available for download on the Apple official page. Then, connect your iPhone to your computer using a genuine USB cable.

Step 2: Select Your Device and Restore

Once iTunes detects your iPhone, click on the device icon, go to the Summary tab, and select Restore iPhone. Confirm the action, but be cautious – if your iPhone disconnects during the process, it could lead to complications.

Step 3: Complete the Restoration

After the restoration finishes, your iPhone will restart. You can now access your iPhone without entering a passcode.

Method 2: Regain Access via iCloud (No PC Needed)

If using iTunes feels too complicated, you can opt for iCloud, which also erases your iPhone’s data but offers the added benefit of clearing any software bugs. This method can help if Touch ID requires your passcode when iPhone restarts and you forgot the passcode.

Step 1: Access iCloud Website: Open your browser and head to iCloud’s official website.

Step 2: Sign in to iCloud: Enter your Apple ID and password to log in.

Step 3: Use Find My iPhone: From the dashboard, select Find My iPhone.

Step 4: Choose Your iPhone: Select your iPhone from the list of devices that appear.

Step 5: Erase iPhone: Click on Erase iPhone to begin the restoration process. Once completed, you can set up a new passcode and Touch ID.

Method 3:Remove Data and Reset Without Using a Computer with iOS 15.2

If you've tried entering your passcode several times and still can’t unlock your iPhone, iOS 15.2 offers a unique solution. This update allows you to erase and reset a locked iPhone without needing a computer, which can come in handy if Touch ID requires passcode when iPhone restarts but forgot passcode.

Step 1: Press Erase Button: If your passcode attempts have been unsuccessful, you will see the Erase iPhone option pop up.

Step 2: Select Erase iPhone: Tap the Erase iPhone option and confirm your decision.

Step 3: Log Out of Your Apple ID: Sign out of your Apple ID and select Erase to remove all settings and data from the device.

Step 4: Set Up Your Device: After the process is complete, your iPhone will restart. You can then set a new passcode and restore your data from your backup.

Important Reminders

• Always back up your data before restoring or erasing your iPhone.
• If still, your Touch ID requires a passcode when the iPhone restarts, so ensure your device has the latest iOS update installed.
• Be cautious when attempting to bypass your iPhone, as it may lead to data loss or even permanent damage to your device.

Method 4: Keep Your iOS Updated for Optimal Touch ID Performance

One effective way to address Touch ID requires a passcode when the iPhone restarts or if it’s not functioning properly is by updating your iOS. Here's how to ensure your device is up to date:

Steps: Go to Settings, select General, and click on Software Update. When an update is available, install it by following the on-screen prompts.

Method 5: Reset Touch ID for a Fresh Start

If your Touch ID requires your passcode when the iPhone restarts or occasionally asks for it even without a reboot, resetting it might solve the problem. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Disable Touch ID Functions

• Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
• Go to Touch ID & Passcode.
• Enter your passcode when prompted, then toggle off iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, and iTunes & App Store.

Step 2: Re-enable Touch ID Functions

• Return to Settings and select Touch ID & Passcode.
• After entering your passcode again, switch on iPhone Unlock, Apple Pay, and iTunes & App Store.

Method 6: Re-register Your Fingerprints for Better Accuracy

If you’re still experiencing issues after resetting Touch ID, removing and re-adding your fingerprints may help, especially when Touch ID requires a passcode when the iPhone restarts. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove Existing Fingerprints

• Select Touch ID & Passcode from the Settings menu.
• Enter your passcode when asked, and a list of your registered fingerprints will appear.
• Tap each fingerprint and select Delete Fingerprint.

Step 2: Restart and Re-add Fingerprints

• Restart your iPhone after deleting the fingerprints.
• After entering your passcode, return to Settings, choose Touch ID & Passcode, and finally, press Add Fingerprint.
• Follow the prompts to register your fingerprint.

Method 7. Use Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to Unlock the Touch ID-Recommended

When Touch ID requires a passcode when the iPhone restarts, one of the best ways to bypass it without entering the passcode is by using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS). This tool is a powerful third-party solution for unlocking iPhones, iPads, and iPods. Whether your iPhone is disabled, you forgot your iPhone passcode, or the screen is frozen or broken, this software offers a way to unlock your device. It also allows you to remove Apple ID, Screen Time, or MDM restrictions without a passcode. With its simple and straightforward steps, you can unlock your iPhone on your own, right from home.

Unlocking your iPhone or iPad when Touch ID prompts for a passcode after a restart can be challenging, especially if you still need to remember the code. Fortunately, tools like Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) offer a solution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you regain access to your device:

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Step 1: Launch Wondershare Dr.Fone on PC

Start by launching Wondershare Dr.Fone on your PC or Mac. Pick Screen Unlock from the Toolbox menu. Then, choose the option specifically for iOS devices to get started.

Step 2: Select the iOS Unlock Option

When prompted, select "Unlock iOS Screen" to begin unlocking your iPad.This will prepare the software to bypass the lock on your device.

Step 3: Start the Unlocking Process

Press ""Start"" to kick off the unlocking procedure. Ensure your iPad has enough battery charge to avoid interruptions during the process.

Step 4: Enter Recovery Mode on Your iPad

Follow the on-screen instructions to place your iPad into Recovery Mode. If you encounter issues, opt for the ""Try DFU Mode"" button to access additional guidance.

Step 5: Verify Your Device Information

Once in Recovery Mode, the tool will automatically detect your iPad’s model and system version. Verify that the details are accurate, then click ""Start"" to continue.

Step 6: Download the Necessary iOS Firmware

Keep an eye on the progress bar as the required iOS firmware downloads. If the download takes too long, you can manually download it by clicking the ""Copy"" button and using the provided link.

Step 7: Confirm Firmware and Proceed with Unlocking

The download of the firmware will be followed by the tool's verification. After verification, press ""Unlock Now"" to begin the unlocking procedure for your device.

Step 8: Confirm Your Unlocking Action

A confirmation prompt will appear. Enter the displayed code to verify, then hit ""Unlock"" to finalize the process and remove the screen lock from your iPad.

Step 9: Monitor Firmware Installation

During the firmware installation, ensure your device remains connected. Disconnecting during this phase could cause complications, so watch the progress carefully.

Step 10: Complete the Unlocking Process

To conclude the process, click "Done" once the unlock is finished.If your device remains locked for any reason, select ""Try Again"" to repeat the process and unlock your iPad.

Conclusion:

When you restart your iPhone, you will always see the message "Touch ID requires passcode." There are a few ways to fix this. The problem can be fixed by doing simple resets, like turning off and on Touch ID or clearing fingerprint info. However, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is the best way to quickly and safely get into your device if you've lost your passcode. If you're having trouble with the "Touch ID requires passcode when iPhone restarts" message or are just looking for a reliable way to get around it, this tool is a great choice.

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