Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad mini 1
running iOS 9.3.5 is more challenging than on newer models because its A5 chip requires specific hardware or advanced exploits to circumvent Apple's security. Method 1: The Official Ways (Recommended)
Before trying high-risk third-party tools, use these verified methods to regain access safely.
Ask the Previous Owner: If you bought the iPad secondhand, the previous owner can remove it remotely by signing into Find My at iCloud.com, selecting the device, and clicking Remove This Device.
Apple Support Request: If you have the original purchase receipt (digital or physical), you can submit an Activation Lock Support Request directly to Apple. Method 2: DNS Bypass (Limited Functionality)
This "pseudo-bypass" doesn't fully unlock the iPad but allows you to browse the web, watch YouTube, or play games through a specialized server. Restart your iPad and reach the Wi-Fi selection screen. Tap the "i" icon next to your Wi-Fi network. Tap Configure DNS and select Manual. Enter the server IP for your region: USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58 Tap Back, then join your Wi-Fi.
Select Activation Help when it appears. You should see a message saying you’ve successfully connected to the server. Method 3: Hardware & Software Exploits (Technical) For a permanent bypass on the iPad mini 1 (A5 device), you generally need more than just software.
Arduino + USB Host Shield: This is the standard community method. It uses an Arduino board to put the device into pwnDFU mode, allowing tools like Sliver (on Mac) to delete the Setup.app and bypass the lock. iRepair P10 Box
: A hardware tool available on sites like AliExpress that can change the iPad's serial number (SN) on Windows, effectively "removing" the iCloud lock from Apple's servers for that specific hardware identity. ⚠️ Important Warnings
iPad 2 iOS 9.3.5 Hello screen Activation Lock. How remove it?? bypass icloud ipad mini 1 ios 93 5 better
The iPad Mini 1, once a forgotten relic trapped behind an Activation Lock screen, hummed back to life after its bypass. Its screen, though not Retina, glowed with the warm nostalgia of iOS 9.3.5.
For Leo, this wasn't just a gadget; it was a dedicated lifestyle companion. He stripped away the clutter of modern notifications, turning the Mini into a focused Zen station. Every morning, it sat on his kitchen counter, running a legacy version of a recipe app, guiding him through sourdough builds without the distraction of incoming emails.
In the evenings, the "Little Tablet That Could" transitioned into entertainment mode. Since it was too old for the high-demand bloat of modern social media, Leo loaded it with a massive library of e-books and offline PDFs. It became his ultimate digital library, light enough to hold in one hand while lounging in a hammock.
With a pair of wired headphones plugged into the classic jack, he used it as a high-fidelity jukebox, playing FLAC files that bypassed the need for a spotty Wi-Fi connection. The iPad Mini 1 didn't need to be a powerhouse; by returning to its roots, it provided a slower, more intentional way to consume media, proving that older tech often offers the best escape from a hyper-connected world.
Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad Mini 1 (running iOS 9.3.5/9.3.6) is possible because the device uses the older A5 chip, which has known hardware vulnerabilities. 🛠️ Method 1: The DNS Bypass (Quickest)
This is a "soft" bypass. It doesn't unlock the system, but it lets you use the iPad as a media player/web browser.
How it works: You change the WiFi DNS settings to point to a custom server. Pros: No computer needed; takes 2 minutes.
Cons: Not a full unlock; you can't use the home screen or apps. IP Addresses: USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58 💻 Method 2: Arduino + USB Host Shield (The Pro Way)
Because the iPad Mini 1 is an A5 device, you can use the Checkm8 exploit. This is the most "permanent" DIY method for this specific model. Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad
Tools needed: Arduino Uno, USB Host Shield, and a Mac/Linux PC. Process: Put the iPad into DFU mode. Use the Arduino to send a "pwned DFU" command.
Use a tool like Sliver (by AppleTech752) on your computer to delete the Setup.app file. Result: You get full access to the home screen. ☁️ Method 3: iCloud DNS Server Tools
There are software suites designed specifically for older iOS versions like 9.3.5.
Popular Tools: iRemove Tools, Tenorshare 4MeKey, or Checkm8.info.
The Catch: Most reliable "one-click" tools for A5 devices are paid.
Warning: Avoid any website asking for "remote unlock" payments via Western Union or Bitcoin; these are usually scams. ⚠️ Key Limitations
No SIM/Cellular: Bypassing usually breaks cellular data functionality.
Apple Services: Logging into a new iCloud account via Settings often fails; you usually have to log in via the App Store only.
Untethered vs. Tethered: If the battery dies, some bypasses require you to "re-unlock" it using a computer. DNS modifications: Wastes time, rarely works on 9
💡 The Verdict:The "better" way for an iPad Mini 1 is the Arduino/Sliver method. It is the only way to completely remove the setup screen and use the device normally. If you want to try one of these, let me know: Do you have access to a Mac or Windows PC? Are you comfortable using command-line tools? Is this a WiFi-only model or a Cellular model?
I can give you step-by-step instructions for the path you choose.
Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad mini 1 running iOS 9.3.5 is technically challenging because it uses the A5 chip, which has a specific hardware vulnerability
. There are three main ways to handle this situation, ranging from official Apple methods to hardware-based hacks. 1. Official Removal (Recommended)
This is the only way to gain full, permanent access to all iPad features, including iCloud services and the App Store. With Credentials : Sign in at iCloud.com with the original Apple ID. Select the iPad mini and choose Remove from Account With Proof of Purchase
: If you are the original owner but lost access, you can submit an Activation Lock support request
to Apple with a valid sales receipt showing the device's serial number. 2. Hardware-Based Bypass (The "A5" Method)
Because the iPad mini 1 has an A5 chip, standard software-only bypasses often fail. Most successful community methods involve using external hardware to put the device into a "pwned DFU" mode. How to Bypass Activation Lock on iPad, iPhone & Mac - Avast
Note: The original keyword contains a typo ("93 5" instead of "9.3.5"). This article corrects the version to iOS 9.3.5, the final supported OS for the iPad Mini 1st generation.
| Feature | Apple Official | DNS Bypass | IMEI Paid Removal | Jailbreak (Sliver) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Cost | Free | Free | $15–$25 | Free | | Permanent | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (resets on reboot) | ✅ Yes | ❌ Tethered | | iCloud features | Full | None | Full | None | | Risk | None | None | Low (scam sellers) | High (brick) | | Time | 5–10 days | 10 minutes | 2 days | 1 hour | | Best for | Owners with receipt | Safe temporary use | Owners without receipt | Developers only |
🔹 The "Better" winner for most users: If you have a receipt → Apple Official. If not → IMEI server-side removal (paid) or DNS bypass (free but limited).