Your iPhone or iPad’s passcode has probably been the same code for years; if there is no need for it, you don’t need to change it. If you change the access code, it may take some getting used to. It often happens that users who have changed their access code are no longer able to remember the new access code.
Forgot your new access code?
When you use Face ID, the passcode is automatically filled in in the background. This may make it harder for you to remember the new access code. To overcome this problem, Apple has come up with a solution: You have the option to use the old access code for 72 hours if you have forgotten the new one.
This feature may not always be desirable. You change your access code for a reason. In most cases you do this because someone else has found out your access code. If you block the old one after setting the new access code, this is still possible via the settings.
Use old access code (within 72 hours)
After changing the access code, your old code will remain active for another 72 hours. However, you cannot simply use the old access code on the home screen. Only after 10 incorrect attempts will the option to use the old access code appear on the screen.
Tap the ‘Forgot your passcode?’ at the bottom right of the screen, you will then immediately be able to enter the old access code and immediately set a new access code via the ‘Enter previous access code’ option.
Remove old access code
After the access code of your iPhone or iPad has been changed, the old access code remains valid for 72 hours. If you do not want this because someone has discovered your access code, you can manually block the old access code. To do this, follow the steps below.
- Open the Settings on your iPhone (or iPad)
- Go to Face ID and passcode
- Enter your access code
- Swipe down to ‘Recover Temporary Passcode’
- Tap ‘Remove previous passcode now’
The old access code has now been deleted and can no longer be used. You can only use the new code to unlock your iPhone.
Useful or dangerous function?
In terms of security, you may of course have some doubts about this new iOS 17 feature. If you know that your access code has fallen into the wrong hands, it is smart to block the old code with the steps above after changing the access code. If you don’t do this, the old passcode can still be used for 72 hours.
This new feature can be useful for people who are forgetful and parents with children. If a child has changed their passcode for any reason, a parent can still access the device for 72 hours.