How Many Times Can an iPod Touch Be Disabled?

An iPod Touch passcode is a four-digit code, or a longer code if the simple passcode option is turned off, that protects the device from unwanted usage. Each time the iPod Touch goes into lock mode, you must enter the correct passcode to gain access to the home screen again. After too many failed passcode attempts, you will see a message telling you that the device is disabled.

Apple does not provide an exact number as to how many failed passcode attempts can take place before a device is disabled. The first time the iPod Touch becomes disabled, you cannot try the passcode again for one minute. If you continue to enter the wrong passcode, the iPod is disabled for longer intervals until the device will not work at all.

Once your iPod Touch becomes disabled too many times, you must connect it to iTunes on the computer last used to sync the iPod. Apple does not provide the exact number of times that the iPod can be disabled before connection is required. Even after you attach the device to iTunes, you must still know and enter the correct passcode before you can use the device. If you decide to give up, you can restore the device to gain access to the home screen.

When you restore an iPod Touch, it is returned to the factory settings. While the latest version of the iOS will remain on the iPod, all songs and apps that have been downloaded will be removed. Because your settings are also reset, the previously required passcode will no longer exist on the iPod Touch.