How to Get out: iPad/iPhone Stuck in Guided Access

Guided Access is a valuable iOS feature, particularly for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to control which apps and features a user can access on an iPhone or iPad temporarily. However, sometimes you might encounter issues, such as Guided Access won’t turn off, which can be frustrating.

To help you in such situations, this guide offers 5 different ways to fix an iPhone stuck in Guided Access mode.

Why is my Guided Access unlocking?

Before we delve into the troubleshooting steps, it's essential to understand why your Guided Access might not be unlocking. There are several common reasons behind this issue:

❌ Incorrect Passcode: If you have forgotten or entered the wrong passcode, your device won't unlock.
❌ Software Glitches: Guided Access glitches may be related to the iOS version you're using or specific issues with the app you're restricting.
❌ Hardware Issues: In rare cases, hardware problems with the home button, sleep/wake button, or touch screen can affect the functionality of Guided Access.
❌ Incorrect Settings: Guided Access settings, such as time limits and touch restrictions, can also cause difficulties when trying to exit the mode.

Troubleshooting for iPhone stuck in Guided Access

Now that we understand why iPhone Guided Access stuck, let's move on to the troubleshooting steps to know how to get out of Guided Access.

1# Triple-click the Home/Side button

Typically, the iPhone's Guided Access mode finds its home within the Apple Accessibility Shortcut. Utilizing this shortcut can swiftly exit you from Guided Access. Here are the steps you can follow.

Step 1. Triple-press the Home/Side button to open your Apple Accessibility features > Select Guided Access from the prompt window.

Step 2. The password screen will appear on your iPhone screen, type the password you used to lock the device, and you will be able to get out of Guided Access.

2# Force restart iPhone/iPad

If the previously mentioned solution fails, the next step to troubleshoot iPhone/iPad frozen in guided access is to initiate a force restart. To execute this, follow these steps.

To force restart iPhone
• iPhone 8 and later with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume + button > Perform the same operation on the Volume - button > Press the Side button and release when you see the Apple logo.
• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume - button and the Power button > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.
• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the Power button and the Home button for seconds > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

To force restart iPad
• For iPad with a Home button: Press and hold the Top button and Home button > Release both buttons when you see the Apple logo.
• For iPad without a Home button: Press and hold the Volume button closest to the Top button, then quickly release it > Perform the same operation on the other Volume button > Press the Top button and release it when Apple logo appears.

3# Set iPhone/iPad in lost mode

Another possible solution to get out of stuck Guided Access is to rely on iCloud to set your iPhone/iPad in lost mode. Follow the steps below.

Step 1. Visit the official website of iCloud > Log in to your iCloud account.

Step 2. Click Find my iPhone and find your iPhone/iPad that stuck in Guided Access mode. Then activate the Lost mode.

Step 3. The optional messages can be skipped, ow your device will be forced to go into the Lock Screen.

Step 4. Just type your Apple ID passcode and your device will back to normal.

4# Restore iPhone/iPad via iTunes

Although it's worth noting that restoring an iPhone using iTunes is typically not the preferred method due to the potential for data loss, it can be a last resort when all the aforementioned methods prove ineffective. If you find yourself in this situation, here are the steps to restore your iPhone using iTunes.

Step 1. Launch the latest version of iTunes > Connect your iPhone to computer with USB.

Step 2. Tap the phone icon> Click Summary from the left pane > Click Restore iPhone... option.

Step 3. When a window prompts, click Restore, wait patiently until the process is complete.

Keep in mind that this method should be a last resort, as it erases all data on your iPhone. It's advisable to back up your data before performing a restore via iTunes to avoid permanent data loss.

Conclusion

iPhone stuck in Guided Access can be a frustrating experience, but it's a manageable issue with the right troubleshooting steps. Most of the time, the problem can be resolved with the solutions mentioned above.

If the issue persists, it might be related to software or hardware problems that require more in-depth solutions. Remember that Apple's support channels are there to assist you, so don't hesitate to seek their help when needed. With the right approach, you can regain control of your iOS device and use Guided Access as intended to enhance your productivity and focus.

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