Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 can be handled through official Apple methods or unofficial community workarounds. Official Removal Methods
Apple provides legitimate ways to remove the lock if you are the owner or can contact the previous owner.
Remote Removal via iCloud: If the previous owner is willing, they can sign in to the iCloud Find My page, select the iPhone 4s, and choose "Remove from Account". This is the most reliable way to clear the lock instantly.
Password Reset: If you own the account but forgot the password, you can reset it through the Official Apple Account Recovery.
Support Request: If you have the original proof of purchase (sales receipt), you can submit a Support Request to Apple. They will review your documentation and may unlock the device for you. Community & Unofficial Bypasses
For those without access to the original account or receipt, community-developed tools exist, though they often come with limitations like disabled cellular services. Activation Lock - Support - Apple
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Important note:
Bypassing Activation Lock without proof of ownership is against Apple’s policies and may be illegal. Legitimate options include contacting Apple support with the original receipt. For iOS 9.3.5 on iPhone 4s, some unofficial methods exist, but they are not endorsed and may compromise security.
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is difficult because modern exploits like checkm8 generally do not support the A5 chip found in this model. While there are legitimate ways to remove the lock, "bypass" methods often result in a device that is tethered or lacks cellular functionality. Legitimate Methods (Recommended)
The only permanent and safe way to remove the lock is through official Apple channels or with the original credentials.
Original Credentials: If you have the Apple ID and password, sign in directly on the device or remove it remotely via iCloud Find My.
Apple Support Request: If you are the original owner but lost access, you can submit an Activation Lock support request if you have the original proof of purchase.
Device Passcode: In some cases, iOS allows you to unlock the device using its previous passcode instead of the Apple ID. Bypass Tools and Workarounds
Third-party tools and "tricks" are often unreliable and may compromise your device's security.
Checkm8-A5 with Arduino: Some advanced users use an Arduino with a USB Host Shield to execute a checkm8-based exploit for A5 devices. However, this is complex, often tethered (requires re-running after every reboot), and typically leaves the phone without cellular signal or iCloud service access.
Third-Party Software: Tools like Dr.Fone or iRemove claim to bypass locks on older iOS versions. Note that these often require a paid license and may not fully support the 4s on 9.3.5.
DNS Bypass: This involves changing Wi-Fi settings to point to a custom DNS server. It does not unlock the phone; it merely provides a captive portal to access some web-based apps and games while keeping the device otherwise locked. Why It's Challenging in 2026
As of March 2026, the iPhone 4s is officially considered obsolete by Apple. Many bypass methods for older devices (like the iPhone 4) do not work on the 4s due to its different hardware architecture. Additionally, many legacy tools no longer function on modern operating systems like Windows 11 or the latest macOS.
Do you have the original sales receipt for the phone, or are you trying to recover a device from a previous owner? How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5 can be achieved through legitimate recovery, temporary DNS tricks, or advanced hardware-based methods like the Arduino technique. 1. Official Removal (Recommended)
The only permanent and safe way to remove the lock is through official channels:
Original Credentials: Sign in at iCloud Find My with the original Apple ID. Select the device and click Remove This Device.
Apple Support: If you have proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock Support Request to Apple. 2. Temporary DNS Bypass
This method provides a "web portal" access to games and apps but does not unlock the phone's cellular or full OS functions. Restart the iPhone and go to the Wi-Fi selection screen. Tap the "i" next to your Wi-Fi network. Select Configure DNS and choose Manual. Remove existing DNS and enter one based on your location: USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58 Rest of World: 78.109.17.60 Tap Back, then Join the Wi-Fi.
Tap Activation Help. You should see a message saying "You have successfully connected to my server". 3. Hardware-Based Permanent Bypass (Advanced)
For older devices like the iPhone 4S, a permanent bypass is possible but requires specialized hardware due to the A5 chip's limitations. Requirements: An Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield.
The Process: These tools are used to put the device into pwnDFU mode, allowing you to delete the Setup.app file or downgrade the iOS version permanently.
Tools: Community-favorite tools like Sliver are often used in conjunction with the Arduino to "Delete SetupApp" once the device is in the correct state.
Watch these tutorials for step-by-step visual guidance on different bypass methods: iPhone 4s FULL iCloud Bypass Tutorial 29K views · 4 years ago YouTube · Icloud bypass 2021 Bypass iCloud Activation Lock in 5 MINUTES (2026) 91K views · 2 months ago YouTube · Victor Dia Easily Remove Previous Owner's Apple ID Without Password 130K views · 1 year ago YouTube · iMyFone iphone 4s activation lock bypass ios 9.3.5
Expert Solutions for iOS 9.3.5 iCloud and Activation Lock Bypass
The year was 2011 when the iPhone 4S first changed the world, but by late 2016, it had reached its final destination: iOS 9.3.5. For Leo, a digital archivist, the sleek glass slab sitting on his desk wasn’t just an old phone—it was a locked vault. He had bought it at a flea market, a pristine "white pearl" model, only to find the dreaded Activation Lock screen staring back at him.
The device was tied to an Apple ID that likely belonged to someone who hadn't thought about this phone in a decade. On iOS 9.3.5, the security was a strange mix of old-school vulnerabilities and modern encryption. Leo knew that a standard "bypass" wasn't a simple button click; it was a ghost hunt. The Digital Siege
Leo began his journey in the underground forums of the "Legacy iOS" community. The air in these digital spaces smelled of nostalgia and broken code. He learned that on an A5 chip device like the 4S, the "Checkm8" exploit—a holy grail for jailbreakers—wouldn't work because it only supported A7 through A11.
He tried the old "DNS Bypass" trick first. He entered a custom server address into the Wi-Fi settings: 104.154.51.7. Suddenly, the phone flickered. Instead of the iCloud login, he was greeted by a makeshift menu. He could watch YouTube, browse the web, and play basic games. But the phone was still a prisoner; he couldn't make calls or use the actual iOS interface. It was a window, not a door. The Hardware Hack
Determined to truly own the device, Leo looked toward more drastic measures. He read about "Arduino Bypass" methods. It involved using a USB host shield and an Arduino Uno to send a specific set of commands to the phone while it was in DFU (Device Firmware Upgrade) mode.
By "pawning" the device—tricking the bootrom into accepting unsigned code—he could potentially delete the Setup.app file. This file was the gatekeeper; if it didn't exist, the phone would boot straight to the home screen.
As the sun began to rise, Leo sat surrounded by tangled wires and glowing monitors. He ran the script. The terminal on his Mac scrolled with green text. The iPhone screen stayed black, then flashed a series of white lines—the "verbose boot" that every tinkerer loves to see. The Bitter Triumph
The Apple logo appeared, followed by a loading bar. When the screen finally lit up, it didn't ask for a language or a Wi-Fi network. It jumped straight to the iconic iOS 9 home screen.
Leo felt a rush of victory, but it was short-lived. He quickly realized the limitation of the "delete Setup.app" method. Without a legitimate activation token from Apple’s servers, the phone had no "baseband" signal. No SIM card would work. It was essentially an iPod Touch with a camera.
He looked at the small device. It was bypassed, unlocked, and completely offline. In his quest to break the lock, he had saved the hardware but lost the "phone." He realized that Apple’s lock wasn't just a wall; it was the phone’s very identity. Without the original owner's key, the 4S remained a beautiful, high-tech paperweight—a silent monument to the era of cloud-tied security.
💡 Note: While stories of bypassing are common in tech circles, Apple’s Activation Lock is a powerful anti-theft tool. For real-world devices, the only permanent and fully functional solution is using the original Apple ID or providing proof of purchase to Apple Support.
If you are looking for practical help with an old device, let me know: Do you have access to the original receipt? Is the device in Lost Mode, or just forgotten credentials? Are you trying to recover data or just use the hardware? I can guide you through the official recovery steps!
I can’t help with bypassing Activation Lock or any other device security/anti-theft protections. That includes instructions, tools, or methods for circumventing iCloud/Apple ID locks.
If this is legitimately your device, here are lawful, safe options you can try:
If you want, tell me which of the three options above applies and I’ll provide a concise next-step checklist you can follow.
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is technically possible but remains complex due to the hardware limitations of the A5 chip. Standard modern tools like Checkra1n do not support the iPhone 4s as they require at least an A7 chip.
Below is a review of current methods, their reliability, and limitations: ⭐ Summary of Top Methods
Most Reliable: Apple Official Support Request (Requires proof of purchase).
Best DIY (Mac): Sliver (A5 Factory Activation) combined with an Arduino Uno + USB Host Shield.
Quickest "Glimpse" (No PC): DNS Bypass (Limited functionality). 1. Official Apple Support (Recommended)
Apple can remove Activation Lock if you can prove you are the legal owner.
The Process: Submit a request via the Apple Activation Lock Support Portal.
Requirements: You must provide the device's IMEI or Serial Number and a valid proof of purchase (e.g., original receipt).
Verdict: This is the only way to permanently remove the lock from Apple’s servers. 2. Sliver + Arduino (Technical DIY)
For hobbyists, the "Sliver" tool is the gold standard for A5 devices like the iPhone 4s.
How it Works: You must use an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield to put the device into a "pwned DFU" state.
Functionality: Once pwned, Sliver can "Factory Activate" the device, allowing you to reach the home screen.
Limitations: This does not remove the lock from Apple’s servers; if you restore or update the phone, it will relock. 3. DNS Bypass (No Tools Required)
A manual method that redirects the device's activation traffic to a private server.
How to do it: In Wi-Fi settings, change the DNS to a manual address (e.g., 104.154.51.7 for North America).
Functionality: Grants limited access to a captive portal with web-based apps, games, and videos. Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s
Verdict: It is not a full bypass. You cannot use the phone app, messages, or download actual apps. 4. Third-Party "Unlock" Software
Title: The Ghost in the Machine: The Ethics, Mechanics, and Legacy of the iOS 9.3.5 Activation Lock Bypass
In the annals of mobile computing, few devices have aged as gracefully yet tragically as the iPhone 4S. Released in 2011, it was the swan song of the Steve Jobs era, a device that defined the modern smartphone blueprint. However, for a specific subset of users and technologists, the iPhone 4S represents something else entirely: the final battlefield of the "Right to Repair" and the cat-and-mouse game of security exploitation. The quest to bypass the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5 is not merely a technical procedure; it is a philosophical inquiry into digital ownership, the planned obsolescence of secure hardware, and the resilience of legacy code.
To understand the significance of the iOS 9.3.5 bypass, one must first understand the context of the software. iOS 9.3.5 is a landmark version for the iPhone 4S. It is the final stop, the end of the line. For a device released with iOS 5, receiving four major OS updates was a testament to Apple’s hardware optimization. But this final update was not about features; it was about security. Released in August 2016, iOS 9.3.5 patched a critical "Trident" vulnerability—a trio of zero-day exploits that allowed remote jailbreaking. By updating to 9.3.5, users effectively closed the door on the easiest methods of modifying the system, making the Activation Lock—a security feature introduced in iOS 7—seemingly impenetrable.
The Activation Lock, tied to Apple’s Find My iPhone service, is a sophisticated theft deterrent. It binds a device’s unique identifier (UDID) to an Apple ID on Apple’s servers. Once engaged, the device becomes a "brick" until the original credentials are entered. For the iPhone 4S, this created a dilemma. As these phones entered the secondary market—lost, stolen, or merely forgotten by aging relatives—the hardware remained capable, but the software held it hostage.
For years, the consensus was that bypassing this lock on iOS 9.3.5 was impossible without the original password. While tools existed for older devices (like the iPhone 4, which had hardware exploits via the limera1n bootrom vulnerability), the iPhone 4S utilized a different, more secure processor architecture (the A5 chip). This left technicians and recyclers with piles of perfectly functional glass and metal that were functionally worthless.
However, the security community is nothing if not persistent. The narrative shifted with the discovery of a peculiar exploit that came to be known as the "Doulci" method and its subsequent evolutions. Unlike a brute-force attack, which is impossible due to time delays and server-side lockouts, the bypass for the iPhone 4S relied on a Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack.
The mechanics of this bypass are intricate. It involves fooling the iPhone into believing it is communicating with Apple’s activation servers (albert.apple.com). By altering the computer's hosts file or using specialized software to redirect network traffic, a technician can intercept the activation request. Instead of sending the data to Apple, the device sends it to a local server or a proxy that mimics the "green light" response.
But here lies the distinction: for the iPhone 4S on iOS 9.3.5, this was often not a permanent "unlock." It was a bypass. The device would be freed from the setup screen, allowing access to the home screen and apps, but the underlying certificate chain was broken. This meant that Push Notifications would often fail (because the device’s unique push certificate could not be validated against Apple’s genuine servers), and the device could not make cellular calls or use iCloud services. It transformed a smartphone into a "super iPod touch"—a media consumption device stripped of its primary telecommunication identity.
This technical manipulation raises a profound ethical question regarding the nature of ownership. Apple designs its ecosystem as a walled garden to protect user privacy and deter theft. The argument is clear: if you cannot prove you own the Apple ID associated with the device, you should not be able to use it. This stance has made the iPhone the least stolen phone in the world. Yet, it clashes violently with the concept of hardware ownership. If a user buys a second-hand iPhone 4S and the seller forgets to remove their iCloud lock, does the buyer own the device? They physically possess it, but Apple retains a digital veto power over its functionality. The bypass becomes an act of digital civil disobedience—a way to reclaim hardware from the cloud.
Furthermore, the existence of the iOS 9.3.5 bypass highlights the fragility of legacy technology. As of today, the iPhone 4S is considered vintage. It cannot run modern apps like banking software or Uber; its 3G radios are becoming obsolete as carriers shut down older networks. In this context, the Activation Lock transitions from a security feature to a death sentence. If a device cannot be activated, it cannot be repurposed as a music player, a child’s first camera, or a dedicated GPS unit. The bypass, therefore, serves an environmental purpose: it keeps e-waste out of landfills by breathing new life into silicon that refuses to die.
In conclusion, the story of the iPhone 4S Activation Lock bypass on iOS 9.3.5 is a microcosm of the broader tech industry. It is a story of security researchers outsmarting trillion-dollar corporations, not for profit, but for the principle of access. It underscores the tension between the right
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is possible, though the complexity of the method determines how functional the phone remains
. This security feature is designed to prevent unauthorised use by requiring the original owner's Apple ID credentials after a factory reset. JustAnswer Official Removal Methods (Recommended)
The only permanent and fully functional way to remove the lock is through official channels. With Original Credentials : Log in to iCloud Find My on the web, select the device, and choose Remove from Account Contacting the Original Owner
: If purchased second-hand, ask the previous owner to remotely unbind the device from their iCloud account using the method above. Apple Support Request
: If you have the original proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock support request directly to Apple. Apple Support Community Alternative Bypass Methods (Limited Functionality)
If you cannot contact the previous owner, several "bypass" methods exist, but they come with significant limitations. 1. DNS Bypass (No Software Needed)
This method redirects the device's activation traffic to a third-party server, allowing limited access to apps like YouTube, games, and the browser.
: This does not unlock the phone for calls or cellular data. JustAnswer Navigate to Wi-Fi Settings on the "Activate iPhone" screen. next to your network and select Configure DNS Enter a server based on your region: North America 104.154.51.7 104.155.28.90 104.155.220.58 Rest of World 78.109.17.60 Activation Help . You should see a "Connected to my server" message. JustAnswer 2. Advanced Technical Bypass (Legacy iOS Kit) How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support 20 Mar 2025 —
Bypassing an Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is technically challenging because Apple's official security is tied to the device's serial number on their servers. While several methods exist, they range from temporary "glitches" to advanced hardware exploits. Official Removal Methods
These are the only guaranteed and safe ways to permanently remove the lock:
Original Owner's Credentials: If you have the Apple ID and password, simply enter them on the device.
Remote Removal via iCloud: The owner can sign into the Find My iPhone tool on any browser, select the device, and click "Remove from Account".
Apple Support Request: If you have original proof of purchase (like a receipt from an authorized retailer), you can submit an Activation Lock support request to Apple. Technical Bypass Methods (Community/Legacy)
For users without the original owner's information, these community-developed methods are often used, though they may have limited functionality (like no cellular service).
Arduino Exploit (Most Reliable): The iPhone 4s uses the A5 chip, which is vulnerable to the Checkm8 exploit, but it requires specific hardware. To execute this, you typically need an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield to run tools like Sliver.
DNS Bypass (Temporary/Limited): This method does not actually unlock the phone but lets you access a web-based "portal" to use some apps and browse the web. Go to the Wi-Fi settings during setup. Tap the "i" next to your network and select Configure DNS.
Enter a manual DNS server IP (e.g., 104.154.51.7 for North America or 78.109.17.60 for Europe).
Third-Party Tools: Software like iRemove or Tenorshare 4MeKey often claim to bypass older iOS versions.
Note: Many of these tools require a computer and may be paid versions with mixed success rates. Summary of Functionality After Bypass Official Method Community Bypass Calls/Text Fully Working Often Disabled App Store Fully Working Limited/Manual Install Updates May Re-lock Device Cost May require hardware/software purchase Do you have the original receipt for this device, or How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
Bypassing the Activation Lock (the final supported version for this model) is a well-known challenge in the legacy Apple community. Because this device uses the "iPhone 4s Activation Lock help – iOS 9
, it is technically more difficult to "hacktivate" compared to the iPhone 4 (A4 chip) or newer devices like the iPhone 5s. Common Bypass Scenarios
While a permanent official bypass usually requires the original Apple ID, several community-driven methods have emerged over the years: DNS Bypass (Limited Access):
This is the most common "soft" bypass. By changing your WiFi DNS settings to specific IP addresses (e.g., 104.154.51.7 for USA or 104.155.28.90
for Europe), you can redirect the activation request to a third-party server. The Story:
This doesn't unlock the phone's full OS, but it opens a "captive portal" where you can use a web browser, watch YouTube, and play basic games. Arduino + USB Host Shield (Hardware Method):
Because the iPhone 4s is an A5 device, standard software-only exploits often fail. A popular technical workaround involves using an Arduino Uno USB Host Shield
to send specific commands to the device in DFU mode to "hacktivate" it. Newer Alternative: Some users now use a Raspberry Pi Pico
, which is cheaper and often considered more stable for this specific hardware exploit. iOS 6.1.3 Downgrade Strategy:
Since iOS 9.3.5 can be slow on a 4s, many "success stories" involve using tools like the Legacy iOS Kit to downgrade the device to
. Some older activation exploits are easier to trigger on iOS 6 than on iOS 9. Official Removal If you can prove ownership, Apple Support
can officially remove the lock. You can submit a request through their Activation Lock support portal if you have the original receipt or documentation. Summary of Effectiveness Difficulty DNS Bypass Web/Apps only Arduino/Pico Full OS access High (Hardware required) Official Request Permanent unlock Varies (Requires proof) Important Note:
Beware of websites claiming to "remotely unlock" via IMEI for a fee; these are frequently scams. Reliable community tools are typically free or open-source and shared on platforms like
The iPhone 4S Activation Lock Bypass on iOS 9.3.5: A Lifestyle and Entertainment Perspective
The iPhone 4S, released in 2011, was a revolutionary device that changed the way people lived, worked, and entertained themselves. Even years after its release, the iPhone 4S remains a popular choice for many users, particularly those who value affordability and simplicity. However, with the introduction of Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5, many users faced a significant hurdle: bypassing the activation lock to regain access to their device. This essay explores the iPhone 4S activation lock bypass on iOS 9.3.5 from a lifestyle and entertainment perspective.
The iPhone 4S: A Lifestyle Companion
The iPhone 4S was more than just a smartphone; it was a lifestyle companion. With its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and innovative features like Siri, the iPhone 4S seamlessly integrated into users' daily lives. It was a device that kept users connected with friends and family, provided endless entertainment options, and even helped with tasks and organization. For many users, the iPhone 4S was an essential tool for navigating modern life.
The Impact of Activation Lock
The introduction of Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5, while intended to enhance device security, inadvertently created a significant problem for many iPhone 4S users. Activation Lock, also known as Find My iPhone, was designed to prevent unauthorized access to a device in case of theft or loss. However, for users who forgot their Apple ID or password, or purchased a used device with Activation Lock enabled, the feature became a frustrating obstacle.
Bypassing Activation Lock: A Solution for Users
Fortunately, tech-savvy individuals and developers found ways to bypass the Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5. These methods, often involving software tools and workarounds, allowed users to regain access to their devices. For users who had been locked out of their iPhone 4S, these bypass methods were a lifeline. They enabled users to once again enjoy the features and benefits of their device, from streaming music and videos to staying connected with loved ones.
Entertainment and Leisure
The iPhone 4S was a popular device for entertainment, with its high-quality display, camera, and audio capabilities. Users enjoyed streaming music and videos, playing games, and browsing social media on their device. With the Activation Lock bypass, users could once again access their favorite entertainment apps, such as YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify. The bypass also enabled users to enjoy the device's built-in features, like the camera and music player, which were essential for capturing life's moments and enjoying music on-the-go.
Lifestyle Implications
The iPhone 4S activation lock bypass on iOS 9.3.5 had significant lifestyle implications for users. For those who relied on their device for daily tasks, such as checking email, browsing the web, and staying organized, the bypass meant a return to normalcy. Users could once again use their device to manage their schedules, communicate with others, and access essential information. The bypass also had financial implications, as users could continue to use their device without having to upgrade to a newer, more expensive model.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone 4S activation lock bypass on iOS 9.3.5 was a crucial solution for users who wanted to regain access to their device. From a lifestyle and entertainment perspective, the bypass enabled users to continue enjoying the features and benefits of their iPhone 4S, from entertainment and leisure to daily tasks and organization. While the Activation Lock was intended to enhance device security, the bypass methods provided a necessary workaround for users who had been locked out of their device. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential to balance security measures with user needs and accessibility.
Do not attempt to update or restore the iPhone 4s after a bypass. If you use Sliver to bypass the lock and then go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings, the activation lock will return immediately, and you will be forced to re-run the bypass. Also, Apple no longer signs older versions of iOS. Once you update past 9.3.5 (which you can’t, because 9.3.5 is the last for 4s), you cannot downgrade.
Remember: The iPhone 4s is a 32-bit relic. As of 2025, Apple will likely stop supporting activation servers for this device entirely, meaning future bypasses may become impossible. If you have a locked 4s on iOS 9.3.5, your window to unlock it is right now.
Search for “iPhone 4s activation lock bypass iOS 9.3.5” and you will see hundreds of YouTube videos promising “Free download, no computer, 100% working.” These are almost always scams. They will ask you to:
Legitimate checkm8 tools (Sliver, Purple Sliver, iBypasser) are free. Never pay for an iPhone 4s bypass. The device is worth $20-$40. If a service charges more than $10, it is a scam.
The iPhone 4s is a classic piece of smartphone history. Launched in 2011, it was many users’ first introduction to Siri and the stunning Retina display. Fast forward to today, and a specific model—the iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5—presents a unique challenge. Because iOS 9.3.5 is the final, terminal operating system for the 4s (it cannot update to iOS 10 or later), many users find themselves staring at an ominous screen: “Activation Lock.”
If you’ve purchased a used iPhone 4s, inherited one from a family member, or simply forgot the Apple ID credentials tied to the device, you might believe your phone has become a paperweight. However, due to the age of the device and the specific vulnerabilities of iOS 9.3.5, there are legitimate methods to bypass the Activation Lock.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and for users who own the device legally but lost access to the original Apple ID. Bypassing Activation Lock on a stolen device is illegal.
The iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is slow by modern standards. Most apps require iOS 10 or later. However, as a music player, podcast machine, emergency phone, or classic gaming device, it’s fantastic. Bypassing the Activation Lock gives new life to a device that Apple has essentially abandoned.