How to Put iPhone XR in Recovery Mode When Disabled

If your iPhone XR says “iPhone is disabled” after too many failed passcode attempts, the only way to regain access is to erase and restore it. Fortunately, Apple provides recovery tools like iTunes, recovery mode, and iCloud to help reset a disabled device. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put your iPhone XR into recovery mode — and what to do next.

Before You Begin

Important: Resetting a disabled iPhone XR will erase all data, including photos, messages, and apps — unless you’ve backed up your device via iCloud or iTunes.

Option 1: Put iPhone XR in Recovery Mode and Restore via iTunes

Connect your iPhone XR to a computer with the latest version of iTunes.
Force restart the iPhone:
- Press and quickly release Volume Up.
- Press and quickly release Volume Down.
- Then press and hold the Side button until the Connect to iTunes screen appears.
On your computer, iTunes or Finder will detect your device in recovery mode.
Choose Restore when prompted.

iTunes will erase your iPhone and install the latest iOS. Once complete, you can set it up as new or restore from a backup.

Option 2: DFU Mode (If Recovery Mode Fails)

DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is a deeper restore method if recovery mode doesn’t work.

Connect your iPhone XR to your computer.
Press and release Volume Up, then press and release Volume Down.
Immediately press and hold the Side button until the screen goes black.
Then press and hold the Volume Down button while continuing to hold the Side button for 5 seconds.
Release the Side button but keep holding Volume Down until your iPhone appears in iTunes or Finder (screen should remain black).

If you see the Apple logo or a recovery screen, you’ve held the buttons too long — try again.

Once in DFU mode, follow the on-screen prompts to restore.

Option 3: Erase iPhone XR Using iCloud (Find My iPhone Must Be Enabled)

If you had Find My iPhone enabled, you can remotely erase your iPhone:

Go to iCloud.com and sign in.
Click Find iPhone > All Devices > [Your iPhone XR].
Click Erase iPhone.

After it’s erased, set up your device as new or restore from iCloud backup.

Option 4: Use Third-Party iOS Unlock Tools

If iTunes fails or you want a simpler method, try tools like:

Tenorshare 4uKey
iMyFone LockWiper
Dr.Fone – Unlock

These tools can help remove screen locks and disabled states without requiring iTunes, but make sure you download from trusted sources.

Still Need Help?

Visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider if recovery attempts fail.
Apple can’t unlock your iPhone, but they can help walk you through restore options if the phone isn’t responding.