Passcodes are recommended for security on mobile devices from Apple running iOS, iPadOS, or watchOS. This feature requires the entry of a numeric password to bypass a Lock Screen to use the device.^[1] This is distinct from protection through Apple ID authentication.

History

4-digit passcodes were first implemented in iPhone OS 1, introduced with the first iPhone in 2007. Since the release of iOS 9 in 2015, 6-digit passcodes are recommended by default, though 4-digit passcodes can still be enabled.^[2] Once a passcode is set, biometric identification such as Face ID and Touch ID on supported devices can be enabled.

Data on a passcode-protected Apple device is encrypted through 256-bit AES. For further data protection, the passcode can be set to erase the device after 10 unsuccessful attempts. This feature led to the FBI–Apple encryption dispute in 2015.

References

External links

• Use a passcode with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch at Apple Support
  • iPad User Guide: Set a passcode on iPad
  • iPhone User Guide: Set a passcode on iPhone
  • Lock or unlock Apple Watch
  • If you forgot the passcode on your iPhone, or your iPhone is disabled
  • If you forgot the passcode on your iPod touch, or your iPod touch is disabled
  • If you forgot your Apple Watch passcode
• How can I unlock my iPhone if I forgot the passcode? at EveryMac (2014-04-18)
• iOS: Passcode at Wikipedia

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