How to Fix Locked Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max

Part of why you own and use Apple devices is the reliability of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max devices and the ease of using them. This starts with the quality of hardware and the synergy with the software that runs the hardware, and the user experience you get. Apple puts great emphasis on this, and rightly so, for this is one of the keys defining and differentiating factors for people to choose Apple’s iOS over Google’s Android. Like with all good things in life, sometimes, a spanner is put in the works that bring your smooth-sailing life to an abrupt halt. With smartphones playing pivotal roles in our lives today, from payments to internet experiences to getting work done to stay in touch with people, anything that stops us from using our smartphone or endangers that experience is a cause for worry. A locked Apple ID is one such thing. It does not happen frequently, in fact, most users will never experience a locked Apple ID, but for the ones who are fortunate enough to have such a rare experience in life, help is at hand. All you need to do is relax and read on. By the end of it, you will have an unlocked Apple ID and you can go back to cruising.

Part I: Difference Between Activation Lock and Locked Apple ID

Apple being Apple, does a lot to make sure that users get the smoothest experience possible when interacting with their Apple products, both hardware, and software. Yet, sometimes, the messaging gets confusing, and people are not sure what is what. One such thing is the difference between iCloud Activation Lock and Apple ID Lock. While people are more likely to encounter Activation Lock and less likely to encounter Apple ID Lock, they are often confused when they encounter Apple ID Lock and struggle to figure out what that means and how to resolve the issue.

Activation Lock is when your supported Apple device is locked for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a stolen device that was locked by its owner, however, there are other perfectly valid reasons such as an outgoing employee forgetting to sign out and erase their Apple device before submitting it back. The IT department would not be able to reset that device without turning off Find My Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and Activation Lock on the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device.

A locked Apple ID usually happens when the user has forgotten their password to their Apple ID account and attempts to figure out the password have been unsuccessful. Sometimes, Apple ID gets locked automatically under some conditions, and that requires users to reset their password to gain access. A locked Apple ID does not mean that your device is locked for your use. You can keep using it so long as you do not try to use another Apple ID with it since to do that you would have to sign out of your current Apple ID (which is locked) and you won’t be able to do that. On the other hand, Activation Lock renders the entire device unusable till the lock is cleared.

In short, Apple ID Lock is about a user’s account with Apple, akin to how Google Account works on Android devices. Apple ID Lock locks a user’s account with Apple while retaining complete usage of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device whereas Activation Lock locks the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device and prevents anyone from using it until the correct credentials are entered. This is about verifying the ownership of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device and works to deter theft of Apple devices.

Part II: Checking If Your Apple ID Is Locked

A locked Apple ID is rather unmistakable. Your device would keep telling you that your Apple ID is locked for your security. Your Apple ID could be locked or disabled altogether if someone has tried to gain access to your account (and, obviously, failed). Apple would disable access to the Apple ID unless you are able to prove rightful ownership and reset the password successfully.

Part III: Reasons for Locked Apple ID

There can be a few reasons why your Apple ID is locked. You forgot the password and now it is locked since you entered the wrong password too many times. A scarier prospect, albeit a real one, is that some malicious actor attempted to login into your Apple ID account but failed. Had they succeeded, you would have gotten a message that ‘your Apple ID is being used on another device’ now.

Apple does a lot to ensure that your Apple ID remains safe. You trust Apple with a lot of your data, including financial data by way of your credit cards associated with Apple ID to make purchases on the App Store and iTunes Store. Therefore, some of the time, Apple preempts issues by proactively locking up your Apple ID or even disabling it. It goes without saying that sometimes it is something so simple as a software error that is believed to have locked up Apple IDs for many users around the world a while ago. It is also entirely possible that it was some malicious actor probing the servers for accounts.

All of these will result in a locked Apple ID that users will have to reset their password to in order to gain access back.

Part IV: How to Unlock Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max

It is unfortunate you are facing a locked Apple ID. Apple tries its best to make users aware of safety protocols they need to follow to minimize and mitigate such unfortunate occurrences, such as using two-factor authentication, trusted devices, trusted phone numbers, passwords, passcodes, etc. that serve as deterrents to prevent unauthorized access to devices and accounts. Yet, when the unfortunate happens, what to do?

IV.I: Unlock Apple ID Via Two-Factor Authentication

Apple implemented two-factor authentication a long time ago to prevent unauthorized access to Apple ID accounts. If you have it enabled, you would be able to use two-factor authentication to unlock your Apple ID again.

Step 1: Go to https://iforgot.apple.com .

Step 2: Key in your Apple ID and proceed.

Step 3: Confirm your mobile number associated with the Apple ID.

If you have another device associated with the Apple ID and it is a trusted device, you can now receive instructions to proceed with a two-factor code on that device.

Step 4: Use that code to unlock your Apple ID using two-factor authentication.

IV.II Unlock Apple ID Via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Dr.Fone is a name that will be instantly familiar to anyone who has ever had any issue with their mobile devices and would be able to vouch for the quality and efficacy of this software at fixing issues quickly and efficiently.

Dr.Fone is a collection of carefully crafted modules that helps you when most needed. Ranging from helping you wipe your devices securely with Data Eraser to maintain your privacy when you sell your device or give it to service and helping you erase not just junk on your device but also user data such as SMS (whether single or batch) to free up some space on your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, to Phone Transfer that helps you to easily transfer data you’re your old phone to your new Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max including restoring from iCloud Backups, Dr.Fone is a venerable utility from Wondershare that does it all and lives up to its name. Naturally, this tool was designed to help you unlock your Apple ID as well.

Step 1: Download Dr.Fone.

Step 2: Launch Dr.Fone and select the Screen Unlock module.

Step 3: Click Unlock Apple ID to start the process.

Step 4: Connect your device to the computer and wait for Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to detect it. You must know the passcode of your device.

You will be asked on your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max to Trust the computer, and then you will need to enter the passcode.

Step 5: Unlocking Apple ID via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will erase the contents of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device. You need to confirm this by typing six zeroes (000 000) in the popup.

Step 6: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset all your settings on the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and then reboot to start the unlocking process.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will notify you when the process is complete.

Part V: Conclusion

Considering how much the Apple ID is pivotal to our Apple experience, it can be incredibly unnerving to realize that it is locked or disabled, due to any reason. We use our Apple ID for iCloud services on Apple devices, to make purchases on iTunes Store and App Store and payments using Apple Pay. Apple knows this and has checked in place to make sure that only you are in possession of your Apple ID account at all times. It can cause a little hassle at times, since if someone makes multiple failed attempts to gain access to your account, Apple will lock your Apple ID until you can unlock it with proper verifications and reset your password.

Apple ID is Greyed Out On Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max: How to Bypass?

An Apple ID functions as a vital passageway to a diverse array of Apple services. These encompass iCloud, the App Store, iTunes, and other offerings. It serves as a unified account that enables users to connect with different Apple products and services. Yet, even with its significance, Apple ID users can encounter various issues that may disrupt their experience.

One such problem is the daunting phenomenon of the Apple ID being greyed out. It also prevents users from accessing essential features and services. Thankfully, solutions to these issues do exist. Understanding the root cause and implementing the appropriate solution is crucial. This article aims to delve into one of the most effective methods to tackle the troubling problem of the Apple ID greyed-out issue.

Part 1: Why Did the Apple ID Greyed Out? Coming to the Reasons

Dealing with a greyed-out Apple ID can undoubtedly lead to a frustrating experience. It also hinders your access to essential Apple services. Before delving into the solutions, understanding why Apple ID is grayed out is essential. Several factors can contribute to the greying out of your Apple ID, and some of these are given below:

1. Apple ID Signed In on Another Device

One common reason for the Apple ID to appear greyed out is when it is actively signed in on another device. This often happens when users forget to log out of their account on a different Apple device. It leads to a conflict that prevents the smooth functioning of the Apple ID.

2. Incorrect Password Attempts

Multiple failed attempts at entering the Apple ID password can trigger security measures. It can temporarily disable the account, causing it to grey out. This security measure is created to safeguard the account against unauthorized entry. Nevertheless, it may limit access to the Apple ID in the event of multiple incorrect password entries.

3. Network Connection Issues

Fluctuating or unstable network connections can also contribute to the Apple ID greying out. When the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device is unable to establish a stable connection with Apple’s servers, it may manifest as an unresponsive or greyed-out Apple ID. Thus restricting access to various Apple services and features.

4. Software Glitches or Bugs

Software inconsistencies within the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max device’s operating system can lead to temporary malfunctions. That results in the greying out of the Apple ID. Such glitches can arise due to software updates or incomplete installations. It can also happen due to conflicts between different applications.

5. Apple Server Maintenance or Outage

Periodic maintenance or unexpected server outages on Apple’s end can disrupt the functionality of the Apple ID. As a result, you experience temporary Apple ID grey-out issues. During such occurrences, users may experience difficulties accessing their Apple ID.

Part 2: Finding the Proper Solutions to Apple ID Greyed Out [Highly Effective]

Encountering a greyed-out Apple ID can be a daunting experience. However, there exist many resolutions to this issue that can be implemented. This article aims to guide you through several effective remedies that can help resolve the problem. By following the solution outlined below, you can fix the Apple ID greyed out on iPad:

Solution 1: Checking Screen Time Passcode Settings

In some instances, the greying out of the Apple ID can be attributed to specific settings, such as the Screen Time passcode. Checking and adjusting the Screen Time passcode settings can help ensure your Apple ID is not inadvertently restricted. Follow the steps below to check and manage your Screen Time passcode settings for fixing the Apple ID that is greyed out in the settings option:

• Step 1: Access the Settings app on your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and tap “Screen Time.” Here, select “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and move down to the “Allow Changes” section.

• Step 2: Now, navigate to “Account Changes” and ensure it is set to “Allow.” Afterward, check if the Apple ID is working normally again.

Solution 2: Checking Apple System Status Page

Checking the Apple System Status page can help determine if the problem lies at Apple’s end. The greying-out issue can be related to any ongoing server maintenance or outage. By staying informed about the status of Apple services, you can ensure that you can take the necessary steps. Follow these steps to check the Apple System Status page to check the Apple ID greyed-out status:

• Step 1: Start by accessing a web browser and opening the Apple System Status page. Here, look for the entry named “Apple ID.”

Step 2: When the indicator is green, there are no issues at the server’s end. Yet, if it turns orange or red, it signifies a server problem, and you’ll need to be patient until it’s resolved.

Solution 3: By Turning Off Screen Time

If the greying out issue persists and is related to Screen Time settings, disabling Screen Time can serve as a potential solution. By turning off Screen Time, you can potentially resolve any conflicts or restrictions that might be causing the greying out of your Apple ID.

This simple solution can help restore full access to your Apple ID and associated services. To disable Screen Time and fix Apple ID greyed out on iPad, follow these simplified step-by-step instructions:

• Step 1: From the Settings of your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, access “Screen Time.” On the following screen, scroll to the last option, “Turn Off Screen Time.”
• Step 2: Now tap “Turn Off Screen Time” and provide the screen time passcode for confirmation. Finally, confirm the action by selecting “Turn Off Screen Time” in the pop-up confirmation message.

Solution 4: Restarting the iOS Device

Performing a simple restart on your iOS device can resolve various software-related glitches. It also includes glitches behind the greying out of the Apple ID. By restarting your iOS device, you can refresh the system’s processes. This simple yet effective solution can help restore normal functionality to your device. Follow these steps to restart your iOS device to fix the Apple ID grayed-out problem:

• Step 1: Press and hold the Power button and either the Volume Up or Volume Down button simultaneously. Keep holding these two iDevice buttons until the “Slide to Power Off” slider appears.
• Step 2: Drag the slider towards the right to power off your device. Allow a few moments to pass before using the “Side” button to switch on your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Solution 5: Checking Internet Connectivity Status on Device

Ensuring a consistent and reliable internet connection is crucial for the optimal performance of your Apple ID. If you’re utilizing Wi-Fi, be sure to connect to a dependable network to guarantee seamless functionality. When utilizing cellular data, verify your signal strength and confirm the availability of an active data plan. A stable internet connection is of utmost importance for the effective operation of your Apple ID.

Solution 6: Reset All Settings Within iOS Device

Resetting all settings on your iOS device can effectively resolve persistent software-related issues. This means if conflicts in settings where the root of Apple ID is grayed out, the problem would be resolved. Be aware that initiating this action will restore all settings to their original defaults while preserving your data. Follow the steps outlined below to reset all settings on your iOS device:

• Step 1: To start, you access the Settings app and navigate to the “General” settings tab. There, scroll to the bottom till the last option and tap on “Transfer or Reset iPhone.”

• Step 2: Navigate to the next screen and tap “Reset.” From there, choose the option for “Reset All Settings.” A prompt will appear, requesting your device passcode for verification. Once entered, proceed with the “Reset All Settings” to finalize the process.

Solution 7: Contact Apple Customer Support

If the previous solutions have not resolved the issue of your Apple ID greying out. It may be necessary to seek help from Apple’s customer support. Apple’s support team can provide personalized guidance and troubleshooting steps.

By contacting Apple’s customer support, you can receive expert help. The support team can offer tailored solutions and further guidance. This can help you regain access to your Apple ID and associated services.

Part 3: Advanced Solution: Try Wondershare Dr.Fone Screen Unlock if the Previous Solutions Are Ineffective

You have implemented all the methods mentioned above, and your Apple ID greyed-out issue is not resolved. It means you need a more efficient solution. Wondershare Dr.Fone is one of the most effective and solid solutions to fix the Apple ID greyed-out issue. Without resolving this problem, your Apple ID would be of no use; that is the main functional unit in your iOS devices.

Dr.Fone does this resolving procedure through its powerful Screen Time Passcode unlock feature. It is also a primary remedy to unlock the locked screen of your Apple devices. Moreover, this tool can bypass the iCloud activation lock and Apple ID without any password requirement. Through this Screen Unlock tool, you will be able to resolve your issue quickly and without any technical knowledge.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Unlock iPhone/iPad Lock Screen Without Hassle.

• Simple, click-through, process.
• Unlock screen passwords from all iPhone and iPad.
• No tech knowledge required, everybody can handle it.
• Supports the latest iOS version fully!

4,395,217 people have downloaded it

• This enhanced and powerful iDevice toolkit can also help unlock Apple ID for iOS 17 devices.
• It can also bypass the MDM or remove the MDM profiles to allow you to use your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max normally.
• You can unlock your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max or iPad screen lock without a password if you can’t remember it.

Fix Apple ID Greyed Out Issues by Unlocking Forgotten Screen Time Passcode

Wondershare Dr.Fone is an easy-to-use software with a simple guide to fix your Apple device issues. Here is how to fix Apple ID greyed-out issues with Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS):

• Step 1: Access the Screen Unlock Tool

You need to start the process by opening Wondershare Dr.Fone and moving towards the “Toolbox” section. At that location, select “Screen Unlock” from the options provided. Then, select the “iOS” option from the window to define the type of your device.

• Step 2: Start the Unlocking Process and Connect Your iDevice

You will find yourself in a list of options from where you need to continue with the “Unlock Screen Time Passcode” option. Next, connect your iOS device to the computer via a USB cable. Then, wait for Wondershare Dr.Fone to detect your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.

• Step 3: Unlock Your iDevice and Toggle off Find My Feature

After the connection, select the “Unlock Now” button to unlock your screen time passcode, and turn off the “Find My iPhone” feature by following the on-screen instructions. Completion of the screen time passcode unlocking process will start to display after clicking the “OK” button. Finally, after the completion message, hit “Done” to end the entire operation.

Final Words

Throughout this article, we have explored the perplexing issue of the Apple ID grayed out in settings. It can hinder the smooth functioning of your iOS device and access to various Apple services. By going through the root causes behind this problem, we have outlined several solutions. These can help users address the issue and regain access to their Apple ID.

We recommend that users diligently follow the steps provided in each solution. So that they can identify and rectify the specific cause of the problem. However, in cases where the issue persists, we highlighted the significance of using Wondershare Dr.Fone. It offers a specialized Screen Time Passcode Unlock feature. Moreover, this ensures the smooth operation of Apple ID and associated services.

How to Fix when Apple Account Locked On Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max?

You pick up your phone to perform a routine task, and your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max gives you a surprise that you have gotten your Apple account locked. It will remain this way, and you will not be able to use the phone unless you follow the proper steps.

Several Apple device users face this problem, and one of these messages might be on your screen:

• “This Apple ID has been disabled for security reasons.”
• “You can’t sign in because your account was disabled for security reasons.”
• “This Apple ID has been locked for security reasons.”

Getting your Apple account locked can be frustrating and might hinder the performance of your phone. In this article, we will discuss the various tips to solve the Apple account locked issue.

Part 1. Why is Apple Account Locked?

Although annoying, Apple locks your Apple Account for a good reason. There might be various reasons, but the most common one is that your account’s integrity was in danger. Apple locks your account when it sees an “unusual activity” surrounding your account or device. It generally happens when some unauthorized person attempts to access your account.

Your activity can also lock your account. If you fail to log in to your Apple ID several times, Apple might lock it. Moreover, your account can even get locked when you answer the security questions incorrectly more than once. Furthermore, Apple tries to keep your ID dedicated to a few devices. Besides, it could shut it down when you aimlessly try to open the account on multiple Apple devices.

Part 2. 3 Tips to Unlock Apple Account

Well, now you know the reasons behind the Apple Account getting locked. The next step is to learn the best tips to unlock it. Here, we will share various tricks that will open the Apple account in no time. So let’s dive in!

Tip 1. Use Dr.Fone to Unlock Apple Account (without Password)

Wondershare’s Dr.Fone comes with a complete set of tools to help with a range of different and challenging problems related to your Android or iPhone. The software has an intuitive interface, making unlocking Apple account a lot easier than its competitors. The application Dr. Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) has robust versions for both Windows and macOS.

Some of the top and vital features of Dr.Fone are as follows:

• It can repair the system of both Android and iOS devices.
• It can backup data available on your device.
• You can transfer WhatsApp, Line, and Kik chat history from one phone to another.

Download the tool on your respective system, and follow the guidelines stated below to unlock Apple account without the password:

Step 1: Run the Application

Once the download is complete, get your USB cable and connect your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max/iPad to your computer.

Select the “Screen Unlock” tool, and a new interface will greet you. Select the “Unlock Apple ID” option to begin the process to unlock your Apple Account.

Step 2: Reset your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max using Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone will present you with detailed on-screen instructions that show precisely how to reset your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Settings. Dr.Fone must unlock your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max/iPad.

Step 3: Unlock the Phone

When your Apple device has been reset, Dr.Fone will get to work and will give you your unlocked iPhone/iPad in a matter of seconds.

When the process finishes, a pop-up message will notify you. It will point out that you can now unplug your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max from the PC and check if the operation was successful.

Tip 2. Use iTunes to Unlock Apple Account

Apple also offers the services of its built-in utilities such as iTunes to unlock Apple account. Here before doing anything else, you will need to get your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max into recovery mode. For added convenience, we have listed how to get into recovery mode with iPhone so you can smoothly proceed with the process.

Step 1. Power off your device.

Step 2. Once it’s powered off, press the side button and keep holding it while connecting your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max to your computer.

Step 3. Once the recovery mode logo appears, leave the button.

Now that you have entered into recovery mode, the next step is to restore the iPhone. The process is simple. You can learn it quickly by going through the steps listed below:

Step 1. After successfully getting your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max into recovery mode, select the Restore or Update option from iTunes.

Step 2. iTunes will download the necessary files to restore your phone, which can take some time.

Step 3. After the download, you can press shift while clicking restore, which will let you select the firmware file.

Step 4. Wait for the firmware update to finish, and then you are done!

Step 5. Access your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max, and you will find that the Apple account will be disabled.

Tip 3. Recover Your Apple ID via Apple (Reset Password)

If you have forgotten your Apple device’s password, it’s recommended not to input your password more than one time. It would lead to a 24-hour shutdown. It cannot be lifted even if you know your password, so proceed wisely. The recommended solution instead is to reset your password.

Here are the steps to reset the password for any of your Apple devices, provided they are in your trusted devices’ list.

Step 1. Go to Settings on your Apple device and tap your name.

Step 2. Now, go to Password & Security and then Change passcode.

Step 3. If your Apple device is signed in to iCloud, you will be required to enter a password.

Step 4. Enter the iCloud password and then set a new code for your device.

Part 3. How to Change Apple ID on an iPhone?

If you have purchased a refurbished iPhone and the previous owner’s Apple ID added to it, it is wise to change the Apple ID. You can add your own or add the ID of someone you know. Apple provides simple steps for you to change your account on iPhone.

Step 1. Visit the relevant site of Apple to remove the ID and sign in with your account.

Step 2. Navigate to the Account section and choose Edit. From there, you will see a new list of options.

Step 3. Select Change Apple ID.

Step 4. Update your email address and click continue.

Step 5. That’s it!

Conclusion

Getting your Apple account can ruin your day and hinder your work. Luckily, there are suitable methods to fix the Apple Account Locked issue quickly and without any damage. Here, we have discussed the top techniques to unlock the Apple account. Hopefully, these tips have helped you can access the contents of your Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max.