Passcode

Passcodes are recommended for security on mobile devices from Apple running iOS, iPadOS, or watchOS. This feature requires the entry of a numeric to bypass a Lock Screen to use the device. This is distinct from protection through Apple ID authentication.

History
4-digit passcodes were first implemented in iPhone OS 1, introduced with the first iPhone in 2007. Since the release of iOS 9 in 2015, 6-digit passcodes are recommended by default, though 4-digit passcodes can still be enabled. Once a passcode is set, biometric identification such as Face ID and Touch ID on supported devices can be enabled.

Data on a passcode-protected Apple device is encrypted through 256-bit. For further data protection, the passcode can be set to erase the device after 10 unsuccessful attempts. This feature led to the in 2015.