Q&A for How to Put an iPod or iPhone into Recovery Mode

You need to connect it to a computer and follow these steps to restore the device. This is the only way you can unlock it.

You didn't restore it if your passcode is still apparent. Read and follow the instructions in this article one more time.

If it's an iPad Touch, boot it into recovery mode using the tutorial above. Use a different tutorial if it's a different iPod, then recover it using iTunes.

Try unplugging the iPod, then plugging it back in, and then try to find the restore button when the box comes up.

On your iOS device, go to Settings > General > Software Update. Make sure you have a recent backup to restore from. Go to Settings > General > Reset, then tap “Erase all content and settings.” From the apps Apps & Data screen, tap Restore from iCloud Backup, then sign into iCloud.

That is the same thing as restoring it, so you should go ahead and do it.

You technically cannot do this, but you can try updating it, which installs a new OS and does its best to not harm any data.

Yes. A restore restores factory settings, which includes erasing all the data. A hard reset forces your iPhone to restart if it is unresponsive.

You can fix it by turning on the accessibility function to have a virtual home button.

This is most likely because it isn't recent or it doesn't run a version of Macintosh OS or iPhone OS. If it is an iPod touch 1, you press the sleep/wake button 1 time and let go, then unplug it and do the process again.

Your iPad is too old. For some software updates, they have certain hardware requirements (for example, thumbprint home button).

Check if the cable is working. If necessary, reinstall iTunes and install the required drivers.

If your device is stuck in recovery mode and you do not have a Mac, borrow one from a friend. If you can’t do this, contact Apple support. For devices that have hardware service discontinued, your device will need to be replaced.