How Many Failed Attempts Are There for the Screen Time Passcode?

Introduced in iOS 12, Screen Time allows you to set how much time you spend on apps, websites, and overall device activity. This passcode setting allows you to set limits, monitor usage, and prevent unauthorized changes to Screen Time settings. It is particularly useful for parents who want to monitor and manage their children’s device usage or for individuals who are looking to reduce their own Screen Time on specific apps.

Screen Time is a powerful feature that helps promote healthier digital habits, though, it can also become a challenge if you can’t remember the passcode. In this post, we’ll further explore how many failed attempts you can work on to unlock your Screen Time passcode. Also, we’ll demonstrate the steps you can take to recover or reset your Screen Time passcode. All these methods will ensure you continue to make the most use of this valuable tool on your device.

Is Screen Time Passcode the Same as Passcode?

No, the Screen Time passcode is different from the device passcode. The device passcode is used to unlock your iPhone or iPad and access the device itself, while the Screen Time passcode specifically controls access to the Screen Time settings. The Screen Time passcode allows users to set limits on specific app usage, manage parental controls, and change Screen Time settings. They are two distinct passcodes, each serving different purposes for security and management on the device.

How Many Failed Attempts Do You Get on Screen Time?

If you enter the wrong Screen Time passcode multiple times in a row, the device will gradually increase the lockout time to prevent unauthorized access. Here's what happens after consecutive failed attempts:

• 6 failed screen time passcode attempts: Result in a 1-minute lockout.
• 7 failed screen time passcode attempts: Lead to a 5-minute wait before trying again.
• 8 failed screen time passcode attempts: Trigger a 15-minute lockout.
• 9 failed passcode attempts: Result in a 60-minute wait before another attempt can be made.
• 10 failed screen time passcode attempts: Restrict access for 1 hour.

What Happens After 10 Failed Screen Time Passcode Attempts?

As mentioned, your iOS device will be locked out of the Screen Time feature for one hour after 10 consecutive Screen Time passcode failed attempts. During this lockout period, you cannot reset Screen Time or change data settings. Although the lockout time increases with each subsequent failed attempt, it does not erase any data on your device. Your device remains functional for all other features except for those related to Screen Time.

On the other hand, if you’ve forgotten your Screen Time passcode, you can reset the Screen Time passcode via your Apple ID. In this way, you can quickly regain access to your Screen Time settings and regain access to your apps.

What to Do If You Forgot the Screen Time Passcode?

After several failed attempts, your device will temporarily lock you out of the application. Simply wait for the lockout period to expire before trying again.

If you have forgotten your Screen Time passcode, you may want to erase it. Here, you can take the following solutions to reset or remove your Screen Time passcode:

Use Apple ID for Recovery

If you’re using iOS 13.4 or later, you will be prompted to use your Apple ID to reset your Screen Time passcode. Follow the on-screen instructions if this option appears.

1. As prompted, tap on “Forgot Passcode?” and enter the Apple ID and password used during the setup process.
2. Follow the prompts to set your new Screen Time passcode.

Reset Screen Time Passcode

BuhoUnlocker is a powerful and user-friendly tool that is designed to help you unlock your Screen Time passcode with ease. If you’ve forgotten your Screen Time passcode and are unable to reset the passcode via Apple ID, you can turn toBuhoUnlocker. This amazing tool offers a reliable solution without requiring your Apple ID or any advanced technical skills. With its intuitive interface, you can easily remove the Screen Time passcode, allowing you to regain full access to your device. Additionally, BuhoUnlocker can bypass various iOS locks, such as screen lock passcode, Apple ID, and MDM lock. Whether you're looking to reset your Screen Time settings or simply want to regain control of your device, BuhoUnlocker is your go-to option for seamless and effective unlocking.

1. Free install the BuhoUnlocker software and open it on your PC or Mac computer. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer.

2. Click on Remove Screen Time Passcode. Then, click to trust the computer.

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to start removing the Screen Time passcode.

Restore Your Device - If the Apple ID Option is Unavailable

If you’re using an earlier version of iOS 13.4, your Apple ID option is not available and you won’t be able to use the Apple ID option to recover the Screen Time passcode. Always ensure your device is updated to the latest version of iOS so that you can enjoy the latest features and security options. Or, you may need to erase your device:

1. Make sure you have backed up your device to avoid losing important information.
2. Put your device in Recovery Mode:
   • iPhone 8 or Later: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
   • iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the Volume Down and Side buttons until the recovery mode screen appears.
   • iPhone 6s and Earlier: Press and hold both the Home and the Top (or Side) buttons until the recovery mode screen appears.
3. Connect your iPhone to a computer and launch iTunes or Finder on your computer.
4. When prompted, choose the “Restore” option. This will erase your device and its passcode.
5. After restoration, you can set it up as new or restore your device from a backup.

Contact Apple Support

Finally, you can contact Apple Support if you forgot your Screen Time passcode. While they cannot reset the passcode for you, they can guide you through the available options, such as using your Apple ID or restoring your device to factory settings. Apple Support can provide assistance tailored to your specific iOS model, helping you regain access to your device's Screen Time settings.

Conclusion

It is frustrating to encounter Screen Time passcode failed attempts, but understanding your dilemma can help you regain access to this important feature. After reaching the limit of incorrect tries, you'll need to wait before trying again. If you keep forgetting your Screen Time passcode, you can utilize your Apple ID for recovery or restore your device to factory settings as a last resort.

It's crucial to keep your Screen Time passcode secure yet memorable, as it plays a vital role in managing application usage and promoting healthier screen habits. By following the appropriate steps, you can effectively get rid of any challenges related to your Screen Time passcode and continue to use this feature to its fullest potential.