Resetting a locked iPhone or iPad has always been a hassle, but the new iOS 15.2 update makes it easier.

As discovered by 9to5Mac, Apple now allows users to erase or reset a locked iPhone or iPad without having to connect to a Mac or PC.

So if an iPhone 13 or iPad mini 6 is locked due to too many password attempts, users can now erase or reset the device from the lock screen. All that is required is an active network connection. Of course, this method is not limited to the devices listed above, but also works with our pick of the best iPhones and best iPads.

After several failed attempts to enter the password, the "Erase iPhone" option will appear in the lower right corner of the screen. The device will be completely reset and all data will be deleted. In other words, the user must start over anew.

If there is no active network connection, the user must follow the traditional method of connecting to a Mac or PC using iTunes.

Prior to iOS 15, the recovery method was more cumbersome. The user connects the iPhone or iPad to a PC or Mac with iTunes and puts the device into DFU recovery mode, which stands for device firmware update. The process also requires pressing the Up, Down, and Power buttons in that order. The user must hold that power button down for about 30 seconds. This will put the device into DFU mode. The computer screen will then display a "Restore" prompt.

After the restore process is complete, users will still need to log in with their Apple ID and password. In other words, anyone trying to reset a lost or stolen iPhone is out of luck.

The iOS 15.2 update also includes Apple's new Apple Music Voice plan, better notification summaries, a new Digital Legacy feature, new macro camera controls on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, and more. Many upgrades are on the way. Be sure to download the update and read our guide to what's new in iOS 15.2.