Iphone 4s Activation Lock Bypass Ios 935 Exclusive May 2026
Online tutorials, YouTube videos, or paid services claiming an exclusive or untethered bypass for iPhone 4s on iOS 9.3.5 often involve:
Disclaimer: This article is provided for educational and legacy device recovery purposes only. Bypassing an Activation Lock on a device you do not legally own is a violation of Apple’s terms of service and may be illegal in your jurisdiction. The methods described below rely on exploiting patched security holes. Always ensure you have proof of purchase before attempting recovery.
Before we discuss the bypass, you need to understand why the iPhone 4s is easier than modern iPhones (iPhone 5s and newer).
Because of these two factors, an exclusive bypass exists that does not work on iOS 10, 11, or 12. It is exclusive to A5 devices (4s, iPad 2, iPad mini 1) running iOS 9.x.
If you own the device, here are the official and safe routes before considering any “exclusive bypass” methods:
Some vendors claim an exclusive method because iOS 9.3.5 is less common than newer versions. In reality, the 4s cannot run anything higher, so any working bypass must target 9.3.5 specifically. There is no hidden backdoor for this version alone.
The iPhone 4s on iOS 9.3.5 is a museum piece. App support is dead. Browsing the web is slow. However, for nostalgia, music playback, or as a dedicated dashcam device, bypassing the Activation Lock is perfectly viable.
The exclusive takeaway: Do not pay for expensive software. The iPhone 4s community is small but dedicated. Use the DNS Proxy Method for quick access, or learn Checkm8 + Ramdisk for a clean, permanent Wi-Fi-based bypass.
Because of the hardware exploit, the iPhone 4s will always be bypassable. And for iOS 9.3.5, these three methods remain the industry's best-kept secrets.
Have you successfully bypassed an iPhone 4s on iOS 9.3.5? Let us know in the Retro Tech forums.
Disclaimer: Information provided as-is. Always ensure you are the legal owner of the device before attempting a bypass.
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only, and we do not condone or promote any unauthorized activities.
That being said, let's dive into the topic.
What is Activation Lock?
Activation Lock is a security feature introduced by Apple in iOS 7, which ties an iDevice to an Apple ID. When an iDevice is activated, it checks if the Apple ID and password entered match the one associated with the device. If they don't match, the device remains locked, and the user cannot access it.
iPhone 4S Activation Lock Bypass on iOS 9.3.5
The iPhone 4S, released in 2011, was one of the first devices to receive the iOS 9.3.5 update. While Apple patched several vulnerabilities in this update, some exploits were still discovered by the jailbreak and security communities.
In 2016, a well-known exploit, dubbed "H3lix," was discovered by a security researcher, which allowed users to bypass the activation lock on iOS 9.3.5. This exploit took advantage of a kernel vulnerability, which was later patched by Apple in subsequent updates.
How Does the Bypass Work?
The H3lix exploit uses a combination of techniques, including:
Tools and Software Used
Several tools and software were developed to facilitate the bypass process, including:
Risks and Consequences
While the bypass may seem appealing to some, it's essential to consider the risks and consequences:
Conclusion
The iPhone 4S activation lock bypass on iOS 9.3.5, while possible, comes with significant risks and consequences. As technology advances, it's essential to prioritize security and respect the intellectual property rights of device manufacturers.
Exclusive: It's worth noting that newer iOS versions and devices have additional security measures in place, making bypassing the activation lock much more challenging.
Recommendations:
By understanding the risks and consequences, users can make informed decisions about their device's security and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Review Title: A Mixed Bag of Tricks—Useful for Repurposing, but Not a Full Unlock
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
I recently dug an old iPhone 4s out of a drawer, intending to give it to my kid as a music player. Unfortunately, it was stuck on the "Hello" screen with an Activation Lock, and it was running the maximum supported software for that device, iOS 9.3.5. I stumbled upon a tool claiming to be an "exclusive" solution for this specific scenario. Here is my experience:
The Process: The setup was a bit technical. It required putting the phone into DFU mode and using a modified version of a bypass tool (often leveraging the "merruk" or "doulCi" exploits from back in the day). It wasn't a simple "one-click" solution; I had to follow specific terminal commands and edit some host files on my PC to redirect the activation server.
The Result: To my surprise, the phone actually booted up past the activation screen. I got to the home screen, which felt like a major victory. I could use the camera, play music, and even connect to Wi-Fi.
The Limitations (The Catch): However, this is far from a perfect unlock, which is why I can't give it 5 stars.
The Verdict: If you have an old iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 that is essentially electronic waste, this "exclusive" bypass method is a decent way to recycle it into a dedicated iPod Touch or GPS device. It breathes new life into the hardware.
However, if you are looking to use this as a daily driver phone or need full iCloud functionality, this will not work for you. It is a "semi-bypass" at best—great for repurposing hardware, but definitely not a security exploit for thieves.
Pros:
Cons:
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5 or 9.3.6 is a complex task because the A5 chip in this device has a hardware vulnerability that usually requires specific external hardware to exploit. Hardware-Based Bypass (The Reliable Method)
The most effective way to "hacktivate" or bypass the setup screen on an iPhone 4S is using the checkm8 exploit. However, unlike newer devices, the A5 chip version of this exploit is "finicky" and cannot be run through standard USB cables from a PC/Mac. iphone 4s activation lock bypass ios 935 exclusive
Requirements: You typically need an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield.
Process: You use the Arduino to send the custom exploit to the device while it's in DFU mode. Once the exploit is "pwned," you can use software like Sliver Mac to delete Setup.app, which is the application responsible for the Activation Lock screen.
Result: This allows you to reach the home screen, but cellular services (calls/SMS) and iCloud sync usually will not work. Software-Only and "No Computer" Attempts
While many online guides claim to offer "no computer" or "software-only" fixes, these are often unreliable or temporary:
DNS Bypass: You can change your Wi-Fi DNS settings to a specific IP (like 104.154.51.7) to access a portal with apps, games, and web browsing.
Limitation: This is not a full bypass; you are stuck within a web browser "portal" and cannot access the actual iOS home screen or local apps.
Temporary Glitches: Some users report glitches using VoiceOver or language settings that provide a brief glimpse of the home screen, but these usually crash back to the lock screen immediately.
Legacy iOS Kit: Some community members suggest using Legacy iOS Kit to restore the device to iOS 6.1.3, which sometimes has different activation requirements, though it often still leads back to the same lock. Official Removal Methods
If you have proof of ownership or contact with the original owner, these are the only permanent ways to restore full functionality:
Bypassing the iPhone 4s activation lock on iOS 9.3.5 requires specific techniques due to the device's aging hardware and its final official firmware version. While modern iPhones often rely on advanced exploits, the iPhone 4s can be bypassed through methods ranging from temporary DNS changes to permanent hardware-assisted unlocks.
Top Methods to Bypass Activation Lock on iPhone 4s (iOS 9.3.5) 1. Official Removal (Recommended)
The most reliable and permanent way to remove the activation lock is through official channels.
Previous Owner: If you bought the phone secondhand, ask the previous owner to remove the device from their account via iCloud Find My.
Apple Support Request: If you have original proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock support request directly to Apple. 2. DNS Bypass (Temporary & No Computer Required)
This method redirects the activation server to a custom DNS, allowing you to use specific web-based apps and features without fully activating the device.
Restart the iPhone and proceed to the Wi-Fi settings screen. Tap the "i" icon next to your Wi-Fi network. Select Configure DNS and choose Manual. Remove the existing DNS and enter one based on your region: North America: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58
Tap Back, connect to the Wi-Fi, and then tap Back again when the device attempts to activate. If successful, you will reach the DNS bypass portal. 3. Hardware-Assisted Permanent Bypass (Arduino Method)
For a permanent "untethered" bypass on older devices like the iPhone 4s and iPad 2 on iOS 9.3.5, the most effective community-driven method involves using an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield.
How it works: This method uses the Checkm8 exploit specifically for A5-chip devices to delete the setup configuration files permanently.
Requirement: This requires external hardware and technical setup but is widely considered the only way to achieve a "permanent" bypass that survives restarts for this specific model. 4. Third-Party Software Tools
Several third-party applications claim to bypass activation locks on legacy devices.
Lockra1n: A free tool that can create activation files for specific iOS versions, though it often requires the device to be in DFU mode.
Paid Suites: Tools like Dr.Fone Screen Unlock and iRemove Tools provide user-friendly interfaces to automate the process, though success can vary depending on the exact hardware revision of the iPhone 4s. Summary of Bypass Options Effectiveness Requirements iCloud Official Previous owner credentials or receipt DNS Bypass Wi-Fi connection only Arduino/Host Shield Arduino Uno, USB Host Shield, Mac/PC Software Tools Tethered/Untethered Mac or Windows PC
Caution: Be wary of online services that request upfront payment without a verified track record, as many "activation lock removal" websites are scams.
iPad 2 iOS 9.3.5 Hello screen Activation Lock. How remove it??
To bypass the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5, you can use methods ranging from simple DNS server changes to advanced hardware exploits using tools like Arduino. While Apple provides official channels for removal if you have proof of purchase, third-party software like iRemove Tools or AnyUnlock often provides more direct solutions for older firmware. Popular Bypass Methods for iOS 9.3.5
DNS Bypass (No Computer): This is the quickest way to gain limited access without a PC. By changing your Wi-Fi DNS settings to specific regional IPs (e.g., 104.154.51.7 for North America), you can connect to a custom server that hosts apps, games, and browsing capabilities.
A5 Exploit (Arduino Method): For a more permanent, "exclusive" bypass, experts often use an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield to put the device into "pwned DFU" mode. This allows you to delete the Setup.app entirely using tools like Sliver, effectively removing the activation screen. Third-Party Desktop Tools:
iRemove Software: Specifically designed to handle older iOS versions, including iOS 7 through iOS 9.
Tenorshare 4MeKey: A common recommendation for users seeking a guided interface to enter DFU mode and bypass the lock.
SIM Card Glitch: On some older versions of the iPhone 4S firmware, briefly ejecting and reinserting the SIM card during the activation process has been known to trigger a bypass to the home screen. Official Removal Steps If you are the original owner or can contact them:
Apple Support Request: You can start an Activation Lock support request if you have original documentation or proof of purchase.
iCloud Web Removal: The previous owner can sign in to iCloud Find My and select "Remove This Device" to instantly clear the lock.
Password Recovery: Use iForgot to reset the Apple ID password if the account belongs to you. iPhone 4s FULL iCloud Bypass Tutorial
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 often relies on hardware-level exploits custom server redirection
, as standard software-only methods are limited for this specific chip and OS combination. Top Activation Lock Bypass Features for iOS 9.3.5 Hardware "Hacktivation" (Arduino Method):
This is considered the most "solid" exclusive method for older A5 devices like the iPhone 4s. By using an Arduino Uno USB Host Shield
, users can force the device into "pwned DFU" mode. This allows you to: Delete the file to skip the lock screen. Downgrade the device to using tools like the Legacy iOS OTA Downgrader for a smoother experience. Private Activation Servers: Some advanced methods involve hosting a custom sliver.php
file on a private web server. By pointing the device’s activation requests to this server instead of Apple's, the device can be tricked into "activating" untethered, provided the server remains accessible. DNS Bypass:
A simpler, non-invasive feature that works on iOS 9.3.5 is changing your DNS settings in the Wi-Fi menu to a third-party server IP. Functionality: Online tutorials, YouTube videos, or paid services claiming
Instead of a full unlock, this loads a "mini-portal" that lets you use the web, YouTube, and some games while the device remains locked. VoiceOver Glitches: On iOS 9 specifically, users have found glitches involving
and language selection that can provide a "fleeting view" of the home screen. While not a permanent bypass, it is an OS-specific exploit used for further experimentation. Recommended Tools
Often used in conjunction with the Arduino method to relay device info and delete the setup app.
A free tool reported to create activation records for older iPhones, though success may vary on iOS 9.3.5 compared to newer versions. Legacy iOS Kit:
The go-to tool for downgrading the iPhone 4s once it has been "hacktivated". Permanence Difficulty Hardware Required DNS Bypass Arduino Hacktivation Untethered Arduino Uno + USB Host Shield Private Server Untethered Web Hosting/PC
Many online "unlock tools" that ask for payments or sensitive data are unreliable or scams. Legitimate hardware methods like the Arduino exploit are generally favored in the enthusiast community. for this process?
The Activation Lock feature on Apple devices, including the iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5, is a robust security measure designed to prevent unauthorized use of a device if it is lost or stolen. While various "exclusive" bypass methods are frequently advertised online, the effectiveness and legality of these methods are often questionable. Understanding Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5
Activation Lock is automatically enabled when the Find My iPhone feature is turned on. It links the device's hardware serial number to a specific Apple ID on Apple's activation servers. Even after a factory reset via iTunes, the device will still require the original owner's credentials to complete the setup process. Legitimate Removal Methods
The most reliable and only "official" ways to remove Activation Lock include:
Original Credentials: Entering the Apple ID and password originally used to set up the device.
Remote Removal: If the original owner is available, they can sign in to iCloud.com/find, select the device, and choose Remove from Account to instantly release the lock.
Apple Support Request: If you are the original owner and have valid proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock support request to Apple for assistance. Common "Exclusive" Bypass Claims
Many third-party sites and videos claim to offer "exclusive" or "permanent" bypasses. Users should approach these with extreme caution: Activation Lock - Support
You can turn off Activation Lock by signing in to iCloud or resetting your Apple Account password. How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
The fluorescent lights of "Mobile Medic" buzzed overhead, a sound that had long since faded into the background of Elias’s life. He sat hunched over a workbench cluttered with micro-screws, prying tools, and the skeletal frames of smartphones past.
In his hand, he held a relic: an iPhone 4S.
It was pristine—the glass back unshattered, the steel band gleaming. It had come in via a box of "for parts" devices from an estate clearance. To the average customer, it was e-waste. To Elias, it was a puzzle.
He pressed the power button. The silver Apple logo bloomed on the screen, followed by the familiar setup screen. But when he reached the activation step, the roadblock appeared.
Activation Lock. This iPhone is currently linked to an Apple ID.
Elias sighed. Usually, this was the end of the line. Without the original owner's password, the phone was a paperweight. But the iOS version number in the corner caught his eye: iOS 9.3.5.
He sat up straighter.
Most activation locks were ironclad. But iOS 9.3.5 on a 32-bit device like the 4S was a strange, specific cracks in the armor. The security protocols were old, predating the modern, server-side dominance of Apple's current ecosystem. There was an exploit—a glitch—buried deep in the setup wizard that only existed on this specific firmware.
Elias had heard rumors on the dark forums of mobile repair. The "Doulci" magic, the server bypasses. Most were patched. But for 9.3.5? There was a window that hadn't been shut.
"Let's see if you work," he muttered.
He connected the phone to his battered MacBook. He didn't use official software. Instead, he opened a terminal window, his fingers flying over the keys to launch a custom script he’d archived years ago. It wasn’t a hack that removed the lock from Apple’s servers; it was a "bypass." A trick of the light. It fooled the Setup Assistant into thinking it had verified with Apple when it actually hadn't.
The progress bar on the phone screen stalled. Then, it flickered.
Connection Error.
"Come on," Elias whispered. He tapped the screen, navigating to the Wi-Fi settings. He selected his shop network, then quickly tapped the 'i' icon next to the network name. He scrolled to the DNS section.
Here was the magic. He cleared the existing numbers and typed in a specific sequence of IP addresses—legacy servers that had once acted as interceptors for the activation protocol.
He hit "Back."
The spinning wheel appeared. The phone reached out to Apple, was redirected, and hit the custom DNS.
Activation Error, the screen read.
Elias didn't stop. He tapped "Back" again, then "Next," rapidly cycling through the screens. It was a rhythm, a digital dance. The software was confused. It didn't know if it was locked or unlocked.
Suddenly, the "Activation Error" message vanished. The screen flashed white.
A new interface appeared. Not the "Enter Password" screen, but the "Set Up Your iPhone" screen.
Elias let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. He skipped the Apple ID sign-in. He skipped the Touch ID (useless on a 4S). He skipped Siri.
And then, the miracle happened.
The home screen materialized. The vintage, comforting blue gradient of iOS 9 wallpaper greeted him. The icons for Calendar, Photos, and the old Maps app were arranged in their perfect grid.
It wasn't a permanent fix—he knew that. If the user ever reset the phone, the lock would return with a vengeance. And iCloud features like FaceTime or iMessage would likely never work. But the device itself? The camera, the music player, the apps? They were alive.
He opened the Music app. Empty, but functional. He tapped the screen. Responsive. Paid “exclusive” services – Many are scams, taking
He put the phone down, the adrenaline fading. He hadn't stolen data; he hadn't broken the law for profit. He had simply pulled a piece of hardware back from the grave. In a world where everything was locked, encrypted, and tethered to the cloud, he had found a single, fleeting moment of freedom.
Elias reached for a SIM card tray tool. He popped the old SIM, blew the dust off the contacts, and slid it in. One bar appeared in the corner.
"Welcome back," he whispered to the machine.
The iPhone 4S, forgotten by its owner and discarded by the world, was ready to make a call once more.
Bypassing the Activation Lock is a complex technical process that typically requires specific external hardware due to the device's
architecture. Below is a report on the current known methods as of April 2026. 1. Hardware-Required Method (Arduino + USB Host Shield)
This is widely considered the most reliable "permanent" bypass for A5 devices like the iPhone 4s. The Problem:
The iPhone 4s has a hardware vulnerability that can only be exploited if the device is placed in a specific "pwned DFU mode." standard USB cables cannot send the necessary commands to trigger this mode on A5 chips. The Setup: You need an Arduino Uno USB Host Shield
(often requiring manual "bridging" or soldering to work correctly). The Process: checkm8-a5 exploit onto the Arduino.
Connect the iPhone 4s to the Arduino via the Host Shield to enter pwned DFU mode. Connect the device to a Mac and use tools like to delete the file, which effectively skips the activation screen. 2. Software-Based "Private Server" Method
A less hardware-intensive but more fragile method involves redirecting the device's activation request to a custom server. Mechanism: Users host a specific PHP script (like the sliver.php file) on a private web server. Execution: By modifying DNS settings or using tools like ideviceactivation
, the iPhone is told to "activate" against this private server instead of Apple's official servers. Limitation:
This method is often "tethered" or unstable; if the private server goes down or the device is restored, the lock returns. 3. DNS Bypass (Temporary/Partial) DNS Bypass method is the simplest but does fully unlock the phone. How it works:
In the Wi-Fi settings during setup, you change the DNS server to a specific IP (e.g., 104.154.51.7
This loads a web portal that allows you to use a browser, watch videos, or use social media apps within the portal, but it
give you access to the actual iOS home screen or local phone features. 4. Official Removal
If you have proof of purchase, Apple can remove the lock for you. Apple Support
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 typically involves either a DNS bypass for limited functionality or using specialized jailbreak-based tools to remove the setup screen.
While popular modern tools like checkra1n do not officially support iOS 9.3.5 or the 32-bit A5 chip in the iPhone 4s, several dedicated community-driven "exclusive" methods exist to bypass this lock. Method 1: DNS Bypass (No Computer Required)
This is the fastest method to regain partial use of the device without a computer. It redirects your traffic through a custom server to access apps and websites.
Restart your iPhone 4s and proceed to the Wi-Fi selection screen. Tap the "i" icon next to your Wi-Fi network. Select Configure DNS and choose Manual.
Remove the existing DNS and enter one of the following based on your region: USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58 South America/Other: 78.109.17.60 Tap Back, then Join the network.
When the "Activation" screen appears, tap Activation Help. You should see a message confirming connection to the custom server. Method 2: Permanent Bypass Tools (PC/Mac Required)
For a "permanent" bypass that allows you to reach the home screen (often called "hackingtivation"), users typically use third-party tools that exploit the device's hardware or older iOS versions.
Custom Firmware (CFW): Older methods involved creating a custom .ipsw file that removed the Setup.app file.
Specialized Unlockers: Tools like iRemove Software or CheckM8 may offer specific scripts for older A5 devices, though many modern versions of these tools prioritize iOS 12–18.
Hardware Exploits: Some community members use hardware like Arduino with a Host Shield or Raspberry Pi Pico to trigger "Pwned DFU" mode, which is necessary to bypass the lock on A5 devices like the 4s. Official & Ethical Alternatives
If you are the legal owner but have forgotten your credentials, official channels are the most reliable: iCloud Bypass (Unlock) - iRemove Software
There is no verified, permanent, untethered Activation Lock bypass exclusive to the iPhone 4s on iOS 9.3.5 that is freely or safely available to the public. Claims of an "exclusive" method are almost always scams or temporary exploits that fail after a reboot. If you own a legitimately locked iPhone 4s, your best course is to contact Apple with proof of purchase. For educational exploration, Checkm8-based tethered bypasses exist, but they are not a practical long-term solution.
Always back up your data and be skeptical of any tool requiring payment or personal credentials for a legacy device bypass.
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is possible through several methods, ranging from temporary DNS changes to more permanent hardware-based exploits JustAnswer Common Bypass Methods DNS Bypass (No Computer)
: This method provides limited access to features like YouTube, games, and the internet through a custom server without fully unlocking the phone. Wi-Fi Settings and tap the next to your network.
Remove the existing DNS and enter one of these based on your location: USA/North America : 104.154.51.7 : 104.155.28.90 : 104.155.220.58 Rest of World : 78.109.17.60 Activation Help to connect to the custom server. Software Tools (Windows/Mac)
: Various third-party tools claim to bypass the lock screen. Many, such as those discussed on , require jailbreaking the device first. iRemove Tools
: Uses exploits to remove restrictions but may require older operating systems like Windows 7 or 8 to function correctly.
: A popular free tool for older devices that often requires an Arduino board for the A5 chip in the iPhone 4s. Hardware Exploit (Arduino)
: For a more robust bypass on the A5 chip (iPhone 4s), experts often use an Arduino board USB Host Shield
to execute a "checkm8" style exploit, allowing the device to boot without activation. Official Removal Methods
For a permanent and safe solution, use official channels provided by Apple Support iCloud Web : If you have the credentials, sign in to iCloud Find My and select Remove from Account to unlock the device remotely. Support Request : If you have proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock support request directly to Apple.
: Bypassing Activation Lock may result in limited functionality, such as no cellular service or inability to use iMessage. for this process?