Resolving the “Device Locked” Error in Xcode When Your iPhone is Unlocked

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

Encountering the “Device Locked” error in Xcode can be frustrating, especially when your iPhone is indeed unlocked. This guide will walk you through steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Understanding the Issue

The error typically occurs when there is a communication mismatch between your iPhone and Xcode, often related to trust settings. Despite your iPhone being unlocked, Xcode may not recognize it due to various reasons, including software updates or connectivity issues.

Step-by-Step Solutions

Here are effective methods to tackle the “Device Locked” error:

Method 1: Re-establish Trust

1. Disconnect your iPhone from the Mac and close Xcode.
2. On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset, then tap Reset Location & Privacy.
3. Reconnect your iPhone to the Mac. A prompt will appear on your device to trust the computer. Tap Trust.
4. Reopen Xcode and attempt to build/run your project.

This method often resolves issues stemming from device trust settings being reset, especially after iOS updates.

Method 2: Unpair and Re-pair the Device

1. Open Xcode and navigate to Window > Devices and Simulators.
2. Right-click on your device and select Unpair.
3. Disconnect and then reconnect your device.
4. Trust the computer when prompted on your iPhone.
5. Wait for Xcode to pair the device for development.

This method helps in re-establishing a fresh connection between your iPhone and Xcode.

Method 3: Simple Reboot

1. Reboot both your iPhone and your Mac.
2. Connect your device again and try to run your project.

Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear out any temporary glitches causing the issue.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the above methods do not work, consider checking for pending updates on your iPhone or ensuring there is ample storage space for app deployment. Xcode does not notify you if the device is full, which can prevent successful builds.

Enhancing Your Development Workflow

If you are frequently dealing with testing on iOS devices, consider using dedicated tools like Repeato. Repeato is a no-code test automation tool that simplifies the process of creating, running, and maintaining automated tests for iOS, Android, and web apps. Its intuitive test recorder and fast execution make it a practical alternative to tools like Katalon, offering AI-driven solutions for sophisticated testing needs. With Repeato, you can ensure your app functions smoothly without the hassle of recurring manual tests.

Check it out!

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