The HowTo NetworkTech

Managing Two-Factor Authentication Codes During iPhone Setup

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
Old device with active Apple ID, cellular service or stable Wi-Fi, Apple ID password

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Maintain access to your trusted device

    Keep your current iPhone or an authorized Apple device powered on and connected to the internet during the new iPhone setup. The setup process triggers a notification on your trusted device to verify your identity. Do not wipe or power off the old device until the new setup is complete.

    Note: If you no longer have access to the trusted device, you must use the 'Did not get a code?' option to choose an alternative verification method.
  2. 30 sec

    Confirm the Apple ID login request

    When prompted on your trusted device, tap 'Allow' on the Apple ID Sign In Request notification. A six-digit verification code will appear on the screen of your trusted device. Enter this code into the fields displayed on your new iPhone screen.

    Note: The code is temporary and will expire within minutes; enter it immediately to avoid a timeout.
  3. 1 min

    Use SMS verification as a fallback

    If the trusted device does not display the prompt, tap the 'Did not get a code?' link on your new iPhone. Select the option to receive a verification code via SMS to your trusted phone number. Input the received code once the message arrives in your inbox.

    Note: Ensure the SIM card from your old device is active or transferred to the new device to receive SMS codes.
  4. 1 min

    Complete iCloud Keychain sync

    After the initial sign-in, iOS may request your previous device's passcode to enable end-to-end encryption for iCloud Keychain. Enter the passcode you previously used to unlock your old iPhone. This step completes the authentication loop for your Apple ID services.

  5. 30 sec

    Verify account security settings

    Navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign-In & Security to confirm your trusted phone numbers are accurate. Review the list of trusted devices to ensure your old hardware is removed if you no longer intend to use it. This finalizes the security handshake between your new hardware and Apple servers.

    Note: Always maintain at least two trusted phone numbers to avoid lockouts.