Privacy and security
Require Passcode
Most people call this how soon the phone demands the code again.
This sets the grace period after the screen locks before the passcode is needed again.
This setting is present on your iPhone.
- We have this path on file but have not yet confirmed it against an official source.
Where to find it - iOS 13 and later
- Settings
- Face ID & Passcode
- Require Passcode
What it does
On a phone with Face ID or Touch ID enrolled, the only available option is Immediately. Without biometrics you can choose a delay of up to four hours.
What changes
When it is on
Not applicable. This is a duration.
When it is off
Not applicable.
Should you turn it on?
Battery
No real change
Privacy
Helps
Performance
No real change
Cellular data
No real change
Storage
No real change
Out of the box: Immediately when biometrics are enrolled.
Worth reading first
Where this setting used to live
Apple moves settings between releases. This is every location we have on file.
-
iOS 13 and later
Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Require Passcode
-
iOS 13 and later
Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Require Passcode
Questions people actually ask
- Why can I only choose Immediately?
- Because Face ID or Touch ID is enrolled. Unlocking is fast enough that a grace period would only weaken security.
If it is not working
- If only Immediately is offered, that is because Face ID or Touch ID is set up.
- A device management profile can force a maximum value.