Redirect success: The iPad should load a web-based dashboard instead of the activation lock screen. You can now use Safari, YouTube, and some built-in apps.
Permanent? No. If you reboot, repeat steps 2–4. But for occasional use, it works.
The DNS bypass method works on iOS 9.3.5 because of a vulnerability in how the activation server handles misrouted requests.
Steps:
Limitations:
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Bypassing an iCloud lock on a device you do not legally own may violate laws and Apple’s terms of service. Always ensure you are the original owner or have explicit permission from the owner before proceeding. We do not endorse unauthorized access to lost or stolen devices.
If you need a functional email/FaceTime machine:
Use the DNS bypass (Method 1). It is safe, free, and takes 2 minutes. You will have a functional web browser and clock.
If you are a hobbyist:
Try Sliver + LeetDown (Method 2). Expect to spend an afternoon troubleshooting USB drivers and kernel panics. It is a fun geek project, but not reliable for daily use.
The best advice:
If you bought this iPad used and the seller did not disclose the iCloud lock, get a refund. If you lost the password to your own Apple ID, use Apple’s iforgot.apple.com to reset it. Apple will unlock the device for free if you provide proof of purchase (receipt).
The iPad mini 1 on iOS 9.3.5 is a vintage device. Do not spend money unlocking it. The cost of the software or hardware tools exceeds the tablet's value. Use the DNS trick and turn it into a digital photo frame or kitchen recipe viewer.
Remember: No software currently on the market can permanently remove iCloud from an iPad mini 1 running iOS 9.3.5 without a bootrom exploit failure. The only permanent solutions are Apple’s official channel or a hardware NAND swap.
I can’t help with bypassing iCloud Activation Lock or any other security/locking mechanisms. That includes instructions, tools, or workarounds for iOS devices.
If you legally own the device and are locked out, here are legitimate steps you can take: bypass icloud ipad mini 1 ios 93 5
If you want help checking ownership, preparing documentation for Apple, or locating Apple Support contact options, tell me which country you’re in and I’ll provide the appropriate Apple support link and required documents.
Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad mini 1 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
running iOS 9.3.5 is possible, but the methods vary significantly in complexity and permanence. Because this model uses the older A5 chip, software-only bypasses are rare and often temporary, while permanent solutions typically require hardware or official intervention. Method 1: Official Apple Unlock (Most Reliable)
The most straightforward and permanent way is to have Apple remove the lock. This is the only "official" method that ensures the device remains fully functional.
Proof of Purchase: You must provide documentation showing you are the original owner, such as a sales receipt with the device's serial number.
Request Portal: Visit the official Apple Activation Lock Support page to start a support request.
Previous Owner: If the device was bought second-hand, the previous owner can remotely remove it by signing into iCloud.com/find, selecting the device, and clicking Remove from Account.
Method 2: Arduino and USB Host Shield (Permanent Technical Method) For those with technical skills, using an Arduino Uno
and a USB Host Shield is a widely documented community method for A5 devices like the iPad mini 1
How it works: The Arduino is used to put the iPad into a special "pwned DFU" mode, which allows you to bypass the initial setup checks.
Software Tools: Once in this mode, tools like Sliver can be used on a computer to delete the setup.app file, effectively removing the activation lock screen.
Benefit: This method is often permanent (untethered), meaning the device will not re-lock upon reboot. Method 3: DNS Bypass (Temporary/Partial Access) Redirect success: The iPad should load a web-based
This method does not remove the lock but allows you to use some features like a web browser, games, and videos via a third-party server.
WiFi Settings: On the "Select WiFi Network" screen, tap the "i" icon next to your network.
Edit DNS: Select "Configure DNS" and enter a manual IP address based on your region (e.g., USA: 104.154.51.7, Europe: 104.155.28.90).
Login: Go back and join the network; a portal should pop up allowing limited device use. Method 4: Hardware Serial Change
Advanced users sometimes use hardware tools like the iBox or iRepair to change the device's serial number to one that is not iCloud-locked.
Purple Mode: The device is put into "purple mode" using specialized hardware.
New ID: A "clean" serial number, Bluetooth, and WiFi address are written to the device's NAND memory.
Outcome: After rebooting and restoring, the iPad treats the new serial number as a new, unlocked device.
For a step-by-step visual on the hardware-based Arduino method for A5 devices:
Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPad Mini 1 running iOS 9.3.5 is possible, but because it uses the older A5 chip, the process typically requires specific hardware or technical workarounds. Method 1: The "Gold Standard" (Arduino + Mac)
This is widely considered the most reliable method for A5 devices. It uses the checkm8-a5 bootrom exploit to put the device into a "pwned" state.
Hardware Required: Arduino Uno (original preferred), a USB Host Shield, and a DCSD Serial Cable. Permanent
Software: You will need a Mac to run tools like Sliver 6.2 by AppleTech752. Process: Load the exploit onto the Arduino. Connect the iPad to the Arduino to enter pwned DFU mode.
Use Sliver on your Mac to delete Setup.app, which effectively skips the activation screen. Method 2: Windows-Based Hardware Tools
If you don't have a Mac, you can use specialized hardware boxes designed for technicians.
iRepair P10 Box: This is a popular Windows alternative. It allows you to change the device's Serial Number (SN), WiFi address, and Bluetooth address.
Result: By changing these identifiers to a "clean" set (often available for purchase or found in free databases), you can permanently activate the device as if it were brand new. Method 3: DNS Bypass (Limited Access)
This is a quick, free software-only method that does not fully unlock the iPad but lets you use some features.
How it works: You change your WiFi DNS settings to point to a specialized server. USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58
Limitations: You can only use apps within the DNS portal (YouTube, basic browser, games). You cannot access the actual iPad home screen or core Apple services. Method 4: Official Apple Support
If you are the legal owner, Apple can remove the lock for free.
Requirements: You must provide the original proof of purchase (receipt from Apple or an authorized reseller).
Support: You can start a request on the Apple Support Activation Lock page. Crucial Warnings
Paid Software: Be wary of websites claiming to "remotely" unlock iCloud for a fee without hardware; many of these are scams.
Functionality: Bypasses (especially via Setup.app removal) may result in the loss of iMessage, FaceTime, and iCloud Sync.
Expert Solutions for iOS 9.3.5 iCloud and Activation Lock Bypass