All latest iPhone models by default come with a 6 digit passcode for unlocking the screen (earlier it was 4 digit). This is called simple passcode since it is easier to remember. However, the flip side is that the simple passcode is not secure, especially when you have private data on your iPhone. It is also very easy for someone to observe the password just by looking over the screen when you are typing the 6 digit numbers. At any case, it is safer to have more secure alphanumeric password and here is how you can set custom alphanumeric password on your iPhone.
Setting Alphanumeric Password on iPhone
Though the process is same on all iPhone models, there are some minor differences in the iOS settings depending on the version you use.
1. Set Alphanumeric Password on Latest iOS
- Tap on “Settings” app on your iPhone’s home screen.
- Navigate to “Face ID & Passcode” or “Touch ID & Passcode” section and unlock the screen with your current passcode.
- Scroll down and tap on “Change Passcode” option.
- On the new passcode screen, tap on “Passcode Options”.
- You will see three options: 6-Digit Numeric Code, Custom Numeric Code and Custom Alphanumeric Code. Select the “Custom Alphanumeric Code” option.
- Now, type your custom password and confirm it by typing again to change your current passcode with the alphanumeric password.
2. Set Alphanumeric Password on Old iOS Versions
Follow the below steps if you are still using older iOS versions like 8 or earlier. Note that you will see “Touch ID & Passcode” option in Settings app, if your device is not supported for Face ID. If you only see the “Passcode” option, either your device is not supported for touch / face id or the iOS version is lesser than 8. Tap on that “Touch ID & Passcode” option in Settings app.
By default the “Simple Passcode” is enabled allowing you to have 6 or 4 digit numbers as a passcode. Disable this option by tapping on the slider and enter the existing passcode when asked for.
Now you will be asked to enter the password with normal iOS keyboard which means you can enter any alphanumeric password like “Password@123”.
Enter the password and tap “Next”, then repeat the password again and tap “Done” to complete the password change. Now, lock your iPhone by pressing the side button and then click on the “Home” button to unlock. You will be prompted to enter the alphanumeric password with the keyboard shown unlike only the number option shown with simple passcode.
Final Words
So, it is not necessary to always stuck with the default 6 digit passcode on your iPhone. You can use text password like on your Mac by using the above trick. You can also follow the same process on iPad to use custom password. After changing the passcode, you can still use the old passcode up to 72 hours for resetting the new password / passcode.
