Whenever you set up a new iPhone, it will prompt you to enter a six-digit passcode after which you will have to set up Face ID or Touch ID. Up until iOS 8, Apple used a four-digit passcode but switched to a six-digit combination since the release of iOS 9 as it is more secure and complex. If you have already set up your iPhone or iPad with a six-digit passcode and now want to use a four-digit passcode on it, follow this guide.
A six-digit passcode is more secure than using a four-digit passcode since it adds a million more possible combinations. However, some people might find it frustrating to enter a six-digit passcode after using their iPhone or iPad for years with a four-digit passcode.
Mostly, Face ID and Touch ID are good enough that you rarely need to enter the passcode on your iPhone but whenever you have to, it could be a frustrating experience. So here’s how you can switch back to a four-digit passcode on your iPhone or iPad.
How to Switch to Four-Digit Passcode on iPhone or iPad
Step 1: Open the Settings app and go to Face ID & Passcode. You will have to enter the six-digit passcode to access this menu.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap the Change passcode option.
Step 3: Enter your existing six-digit passcode to continue. You will then be prompted to enter your new passcode. This will also be a six-digit passcode. Do not enter it.
Step 4: Tap the Passcode options at the bottom and select the 4-digit numeric code option. You also have the option of setting up a custom numeric code or an alphanumeric code. The other two options are going to be more secure than a simple four-digit passcode, though they will also be more difficult to enter.
Proceed to enter the four-digit passcode twice and wait for Apple to update it across its system. If you use a very simple passcode, you will get a prompt saying that this passcode can be easily guessed.
There you have it! You have successfully set up a four-digit passcode on your iPhone or iPad. Now you won’t have to get all worked up whenever your iPhone asks you to enter your passcode for security reasons.
