How to Erase an iPad Mini That's Asking for a Screen Time Passcode?
Asked by
GlimmeringPine382
I'm trying to erase my daughter's old iPad Mini running iOS 15.8.5. We have the passcode to unlock it, but when I try to erase all content and settings, it prompts me for a Screen Time passcode, which has never been set on this device. I've entered all the passcodes I can think of but can't access it. Is this a glitch, and what steps can I take to resolve this?
Answers
Definitely seems like Screen Time was enabled at some point. Have you tried using one of your common passcodes? It might just surprise you! But if you've exhausted all your options, using Recovery Mode via a computer to restore the iPad is likely your best bet, though it can get tricky.
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If Recovery Mode is the way you’re thinking to go, remember you’ll need to turn off Find My iPad first. That’s a whole separate hassle! Just try to get the Apple ID info handy—might be the key to getting things sorted out.
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It sounds like Screen Time might have been set up before, even if you don't remember it. You can go to Settings > Screen Time and see if there’s an option to change the passcode. If it prompts for a forgotten passcode, enter the Apple ID linked to the iPad. Hopefully, one of the Apple IDs you've used will unlock it so you can proceed with the erase.
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