Guided Access is a fantastic feature on iPhones and iPads that allows you to lock your device into a single app. This is particularly useful for kids, demonstrations, or when you need to focus on a specific task. However, getting stuck in Guided Access can be frustrating. This guide provides various methods on How To Deactivate Guided Access, ensuring you regain control of your device.
Understanding Guided Access and Why You Might Get Stuck
Guided Access limits your device to a single app and allows you to control which features are available. It’s a great tool, but sometimes, the standard methods of deactivation don’t work. This can happen due to software glitches, forgotten passcodes, or accidental disabling of the home button functionality.
Methods to Deactivate Guided Access
Here are several methods you can try to deactivate Guided Access, starting with the simplest and moving to more advanced techniques:
1. The Triple-Click Method (Standard Deactivation)
This is the most common method for deactivating Guided Access.
- For devices with a Home Button: Quickly press the Home button three times.
- For devices without a Home Button: Quickly press the Side button (power button) three times.
After the triple-click, you should be prompted to enter your Guided Access passcode. Enter the passcode, and then tap “End” in the lower-left corner of the screen.
Triple-click to exit guided access
2. Force Restarting Your Device
If the triple-click method doesn’t work, try force restarting your iPhone or iPad. This can often resolve software glitches that might be preventing Guided Access from deactivating.
- For iPhone 8 or later and iPad models without a Home button:
- Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
- Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
- Press and hold the Side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.
- For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side button (power button) and the Volume Down button until the Apple logo appears.
- For iPhone 6s and earlier, iPad models with a Home button: Press and hold both the Home button and the Side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.
3. Using iCloud to Mark Device as Lost
If force restarting doesn’t work, you can try using iCloud to mark your device as lost. This method has been reported to work in some cases.
- From another device (computer, smartphone, or tablet), go to iCloud.com.
- Sign in with your Apple ID and password.
- Click on “Find iPhone” or “Find My.”
- Select your device from the list of devices.
- Click on “Mark as Lost.” Follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Letting the Battery Die
As a last resort, some users have found success by simply letting the device’s battery drain completely. Once the device powers off due to low battery, charge it and restart it. This might reset the Guided Access settings.
Preventing Future Guided Access Lockouts
To avoid future frustrations with Guided Access, consider these tips:
- Remember Your Passcode: The most common reason for being unable to exit Guided Access is forgetting the passcode. Write it down in a safe place.
- Enable Touch ID or Face ID: Set up Touch ID or Face ID for Guided Access to provide an alternative way to exit the mode.
- Regularly Test Deactivation: Periodically test the triple-click method to ensure it’s working correctly.
- Keep Your Device Updated: Ensure your iPhone or iPad is running the latest version of iOS or iPadOS. Software updates often include bug fixes that can address issues with Guided Access.
Navigating Guided Access Settings
To further manage Guided Access, explore its settings:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Accessibility.
- Scroll down and tap Guided Access.
Within these settings, you can:
- Toggle Guided Access on or off.
- Set a passcode.
- Enable Touch ID or Face ID for unlocking.
- Set time limits for Guided Access sessions.
- Configure accessibility shortcuts.
By understanding these settings, you can customize Guided Access to better suit your needs and reduce the likelihood of getting locked out.
Conclusion
Getting stuck in Guided Access can be a stressful experience, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to regain control of your iPhone or iPad. Remember to keep your passcode in a safe place and consider enabling Touch ID or Face ID for easier deactivation. With these tips, you can confidently use Guided Access without the fear of being locked out.
