How to Create a Custom Alphanumeric Passcode for Your iPhone

Touch ID and Face ID are great iPhone security features, but if you want the best protection for your device, you need an iPhone passcode. Not too long ago, Apple changed from having a four-digit code as the default to an even-harder-to-crack, six-digit code as the default. Better yet, you can set an alphanumeric code that's six digits or longer as your iPhone passcode. If you're looking for the best security code possible, an alphanumeric code is your best bet. Let's get started learning how to set a new passcode on your iPhone now. 

Related: (2018) How to Change Auto Lock Time on iPhone & iPad (& Fix "iPhone Keeps Locking" Bug) 

How to Create a Custom Alphanumeric Passcode for iPhone

To create a custom alphanumeric passcode for your iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap on Face ID & Passcode if you have an iPhone X or later, Touch ID & Passcode for earlier iPhones.
   
   
    
3. You'll be prompted to enter your current passcode.
4. Once you're on the ID & Passcode screen, scroll down and tap on Change Passcode.
   
   
    
5. You'll be once again prompted to enter your current passcode, then tap Next.
6. Now you can enter a new passcode; but instead, tap on the words Passcode Options below that.
   
   
    
7. Tap on Custom Alphanumeric Code.
8. Now enter your new passcode using a combination of letters and numbers; you can use up to 34 characters. When you're finished, tap Next.
   
   
    

You'll be asked to confirm your new passcode; and then it will be set! Make sure that your alphanumeric passcode is something you're able to remember. The longer the passcode, the more secure it is; but if you're going to have to enter it every time you access your iPhone without Face ID or Touch ID, you might not want to go beyond eight to ten characters.