locked phone

If your iPhone shows a restore screen, try this

Connect to your computer

Connect your device to your computer using the cable that came with your device. Don't disconnect your device from your computer.

Restart your device

For iPad models without a Home button: Press and quickly release the volume button closest to the top button. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button. Press and hold the top button until the Apple logo appears. If you're not sure, learn which buttons you need to press to restart your iPad.

For iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release the volume up button. Press and quickly release the volume down button. Press and hold the side button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, and iPod touch (7th generation): Press and hold both the side (or top) button and the volume down button until the Apple logo appears.

For iPad models with a Home button, iPhone 6s or earlier, and iPod touch (6th generation) or earlier: Press and hold both the side (or top) button and the Home button until the Apple logo appears.

There's multiple kinds of "locking" on devices. Click on the links below to find instructions on how to deal with your specific situation:

1) iCloud: Activation Lock - Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support - This is a security feature so only legitimate (e.g., not stolen) use of devices is possible. Read this support article about how to remove Activation Lock --> How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support - If an activation lock was put on a device, only the owner of the account that applied the lock can remove it. Get them to remove it or return the item for a refund. If you are the owner, see the part at the end about asking Apple to reset the device.

2) Device lock: If you forgot the passcode for your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, or your device is disabled, read this support article if you are using iOS or iPadOS 15.2 or higher --> If you see an iPhone or iPad unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support or here if you do not meet the criteria for the previous method--> If you forgot your iPhone passcode - Apple Support

3) Carrier lock: Read this article about how to unlock your iPhone for use with a different carrier. --> How to unlock your iPhone for use with a different carrier - Apple Support Only some carriers offer the ability to unlock iPhone for use on any carrier. Follow the instructions in this article to unlock your iPhone.