How to Change Password on iPhone

How to Switch to (or Away from) a 6-Digit Security Code

Your iPhone contains precious memories and sensitive information that can be protected with a password. Apple has default six-digit passcodes on newer iPads and iPhones for better iPhone security, but not everyone wants to enter a longer iPhone passcode, while others want to add an even stronger passcode. I will teach you how to ​​change your iPhone passcode in a few simple steps!

Related: How to Create a Custom Alphanumeric Passcode for Your iPhone

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The Different iPhone Passcode Options

Have you been asking yourself how do I change my phone password? Before we dive into the how, let's talk about the what and why. A passcode can help protect your phone and bypass Face ID on newer phones and Touch ID on older phones. To learn more about iPhone security, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

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There are four passcode options to choose from, each with its pros and cons:

how to change password on iphone

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How to Change Phone Password on iPhone

Apple has default six-digit passcodes on newer iPads and iPhones for better iPhone security. It seems insignificant that the default iPhone passcode changed from four to six digits, but the additional two numbers increase the possible combinations from 10,000 to a million. Here’s how to change iPhone passcodes:

  1. Open the Settings app.

    Open the Settings app.
     
  2. Select Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode on older devices.)

    Select Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode on older devices.)
     
  3. Enter your current passcode.

    Enter your current passcode. 
     
  4. Scroll down and tap Change Passcode.

    Scroll down and tap Change Passcode.
     
  5. Enter your old passcode again.

    Enter your old passcode again.
     
  6. If you want to keep the same style passcode, enter your new code. You will have to enter it one more time to finish the process.

    If you want to keep the same style passcode, enter your new code.
     
  7. If you want to change the type of passcode you have, tap Passcode Options.

    If you want to change the type of passcode you have, tap Passcode Options.
     
  8. Select between the three options you currently aren’t using. The options include Custom Alphanumeric Code, Custom Numeric Code, 4-Digit Numeric Code, and 6-Digit Numeric Code.

    Select between the three options you currently aren’t using.
     
  9. Enter your new passcode. You will have to enter it one more time to finish the process.

    If you want to keep the same style passcode, enter your new code.

Pro Tip: You may get a popup that your passcode is too easy. Tap Change Passcode and type in a more secure code if this happens.

Tap Change Passcode and type in a more secure code if this happens.

Now you know how to change the passcode on your iPhone to keep your data safe. Depending on your needs, you may want to use a longer passcode or a shorter one. Make sure not to use any personal data, and never write your password down for someone to find.

Top Image Credit: ymgerman / Shutterstock.com

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Author Details

Conner Carey's picture

Author Details

Conner Carey

Conner Carey's writing can be found at conpoet.com. She is currently writing a book, creating lots of content, and writing poetry via @conpoet on Instagram. She lives in an RV full-time with her mom, Jan and dog, Jodi as they slow-travel around the country.