Apple is making it easier to restore iCloud data in case of forgotten passwords or device codes in iOS 15. There are two options. Below we will look at the data recovery service in iCloud.
The new way to restore access to iCloud data if you get locked out includes two new options. Users can enable a recovery key (previously available as part of 2FA but not in iOS/Mac settings) or add a recovery contact. While most iCloud data can be restored using these options, such as device backups, photos and more, Apple points out that some things like the keychain and health data cannot be restored for privacy reasons. Apple states:
The iCloud Data Recovery service can help you get your data back, including photos, notes, reminders, and device backups. The service requires that Apple retain access to your data to help you recover it. To protect your privacy, Apple cannot access or help you recover your end-to-end encrypted data, such as Keychain, Screen Time, and Health data. The iCloud Data Recovery service lets you view your photos, notes, reminders, and other files on the web at iCloud.com without first requesting access from your Apple device.
How to use the new iCloud data recovery on iPhone, iPad and Mac
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad (requires iOS 15, iPadOS 15 or later)
- Tap your name
- Choose Password & Security
- Tap Account Recovery
- Now you can activate the recovery key and add a recovery contact (the latter requires that the user is at least 13 years old and running iOS 15, iPadOS 15, or macOS Monterey)
- Of course, you can access the same settings on Mac running macOS Monterey or later by going to System Preferences -> Apple ID -> Password & Security -> Account Recovery.
To use iCloud Data Recovery with a recovery key, tap Recovery Key at the bottom of the screen. After tapping the toggle, confirm with "Use Recovery Key." If you choose this option, make sure to store the recovery key in a safe place. (Photo by Denys Prykhodov / Bigstockphoto)
