How to Get Rid of Guided Access on iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide

Guided Access is a helpful feature on iPhones that restricts the device to a single app. It’s great for kids or when you need someone to focus on a specific task. However, sometimes you might find yourself stuck in Guided Access mode and need to get out. This guide provides several methods on How To Get Rid Of Guided Access On Iphone, covering various iPhone models and situations.

Understanding Guided Access and Why You Might Get Stuck

Guided Access locks your iPhone into a single app, disabling the Home button (or the swipe-up gesture on newer iPhones) and other functionalities. It can be accidentally activated, or you might forget the passcode required to exit. A common search is always how to get rid of guided access on iPhone.

Method 1: The Classic Triple-Click (Home Button iPhones)

For iPhones with a physical Home button, the most common way to exit Guided Access is by triple-clicking the Home button.

1. Triple-click the Home button: Quickly press the Home button three times in a row.
2. Enter your passcode: If a passcode is set, you’ll be prompted to enter it.
3. Tap “End”: After entering the correct passcode, tap the “End” button in the upper-left corner of the screen.

If this doesn’t work, proceed to the next methods.

Method 2: Force Restart (All iPhone Models)

A force restart can often resolve software glitches that might be preventing you from exiting Guided Access. The process differs slightly depending on your iPhone model:

• iPhone 8 or later (No Home Button):
  1. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
  2. Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
  3. Press and hold the Side button (power button) until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone Force Restart Steps: Volume Up, Volume Down, Hold Side Button until Apple Logo appears

• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side button (power button) and the Volume Down button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold both the Home button and the Side button (power button) simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.

This force restart should bypass Guided Access and bring you back to the lock screen or home screen.

Method 3: Using iCloud “Mark as Lost” Feature

If the force restart doesn’t work, and you have access to another device (computer, tablet, or another phone), you can try using the “Mark as Lost” feature in iCloud. This method has reportedly worked for some users who were completely locked out of their iPhones due to Guided Access issues.

1. Go to iCloud.com: On another device, open a web browser and go to iCloud.com.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID: Enter the Apple ID and password associated with the iPhone stuck in Guided Access.
3. Find My iPhone: Click on the “Find iPhone” (or “Find My”) icon.
4. Select your iPhone: Choose your iPhone from the list of devices.
5. Mark as Lost: Click on “Mark as Lost.” Follow the prompts to enable Lost Mode.

This action might remotely disable Guided Access. After marking the device as lost, try restarting your iPhone again using the force restart method (Method 2).

Method 4: Battery Drain (Last Resort)

If all other methods fail, you can let the iPhone’s battery drain completely. This can take several hours. Once the battery is fully drained, plug the iPhone into a power source and let it charge. When it powers back on, it should be out of Guided Access.

Method 5: iOS System Repair Tool or iTunes Restore (Data Loss Risk)

As a last resort, consider using an iOS system repair tool or iTunes to restore your device. Be aware that this process may result in data loss, so it should only be used if you have a recent backup.

1. Connect to a Computer: Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina or later).
2. Enter Recovery Mode: The process for entering recovery mode varies depending on your iPhone model:
   • iPhone 8 or later: Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
   • iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until you see the recovery mode screen.
   • iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold both the Home button and the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
3. Restore or Update: In iTunes (or Finder), you’ll be given the option to “Restore” or “Update.” Try “Update” first, as it will attempt to reinstall iOS without erasing your data. If “Update” doesn’t work, you’ll need to choose “Restore,” which will erase all data on your iPhone.

Preventing Future Guided Access Issues

To avoid getting stuck in Guided Access again, consider these tips:

• Set a memorable passcode: Choose a passcode you won’t forget.
• Write down the passcode: Keep the passcode in a safe place.
• Disable Guided Access when not needed: Turn off Guided Access in Settings when you’re not actively using it.
• Update iOS: Keep your iPhone’s operating system up to date to ensure you have the latest bug fixes and security updates.

By following these methods, you should be able to get rid of Guided Access on iPhone and regain full control of your device. Remember to proceed with caution when using methods that might result in data loss.