Apple Watches are designed to be extensions to your iPhone; you can access most of your notifications, calls, messages, and other tasks, without having to touch your iOS device. It’s handy and comes in many straps and watch face designs. However, some users have experienced the “too many passcode attempts reset Apple Watch” problem.
You’ll need to reset Apple Watch once you’ve forgotten its passcode. This guide will show you what the error “Too many passcode attempts” means on your Apple Watch and how to fix it.
Read on to learn more.
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What Does the “Too Many Passcode Attempts” Error Mean on Your Apple Watch?
This error often happens when you’ve entered the wrong passcode on your Apple Watch several times. It’s a part of the device’s security features and will require you to reset Apple Watch and pair again to your iPhone.
After five incorrect attempts at unlocking your watch, you’ll be prompted to try again in one minute. After six unsuccessful attempts, you’ll get a message to try again in five minutes. Then, after seven incorrect attempts, you’ll be asked to try again in 15 minutes.
Once you get to eight incorrect passcode attempts, you’ll be asked to wait for 60 minutes (1 hour) before attempting a passcode. If it’s still unsuccessful, the message “Too Many Passcode Attempts. Reset Apple Watch and pair again.” will show on the screen.
How to Fix the “Too Many Passcode Attempts” Issue on Your Apple Watch
You can try a few methods once you experience the “Too Many Passcode Attempts reset Apple Watch” error. Remember to review each fix and see which one is the most effective for your Apple Watch:
Fix #1: Reset Your Apple Watch Using Your iPhone
The most recommended way to reset your Apple Watch and fix errors like “Too Many Passcode Attempts” is via the Watch app on your iPhone. To reset your Apple Watch using your iPhone, follow these steps:
- Place your iPhone and Apple Watch as close as possible.
- Open the Watch app on your iPhone and go to My Watch > General.
- Select Reset and choose Erase Apple Watch Content and Settings.
- Wait for the reset process to finish.
- Once done, set up your Apple Watch by entering your Apple ID and password.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and choose Restore From Backup to restore the latest backup data to your Apple Watch.
Fix #2: Reset Your Apple Watch Without Your iPhone
If you don’t have your iPhone or your Apple Watch is not paired with your iPhone yet, you’ll need to reset it directly from the device. However, make sure to keep your Apple Watch charged to avoid power loss during the reset process.
To reset your Apple Watch without an iPhone, follow the steps below:
- Connect your Apple Watch to its magnetic charger. Keep it charged until the watch is reset.
- Press and hold the Side button until the device until the Power Off option appears on the screen.
- Next, press and hold the Digital Crown until the “Erase All Content and Settings” option shows on the screen.
- Select the Reset button. Wait for the process to complete.
- Once finished, set up your Apple Watch by following the on-screen steps and restoring data from the latest backup option.
Final Thoughts
Apple Watches are efficient devices you can use on the go with your iPhone. However, it’s possible to forget your watch’s passcode, especially when you have too many passwords and codes to remember.
Hopefully, this guide helps you to reset your Apple Watch once you see the “Too many passcode attempts” error. If you need more help, try contacting Apple Watch Support.