After bypassing, immediately:
Result Quality: 8/10. Notifications work, but you cannot restore from backup or use iCloud sync.
In the world of locked iPhones, the iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 occupies a strange, almost mythical space. While security researchers chase exploits on the latest iPhones for million-dollar bounties, a different kind of alchemy happens with Apple’s sixth-oldest phone.
The standard narrative is: Activation Lock is unbreakable. It’s a server-side lock. You can’t “hack” Apple’s servers. So how is it that a used iPhone 4s on eBay, listed as “iCloud locked – parts only,” can be resurrected and used as a fully functional iPod touch or emergency phone?
The answer lies in a perfect storm of hardware aging, software entropy, and a legendary tool called sliver.
Effect of bypass: The activation daemon (activationd) keeps retrying in the background.
Extra quality fix: Use iMazing to disable the com.apple.activationd daemon via a custom ramdisk.
The iPhone 4s is a legend. It introduced the world to Siri and remains a beloved device for collectors, car music players, or backup phones. However, if you have purchased a used unit or resurrected your own device from a drawer, you have likely encountered the dreaded Activation Lock screen.
For devices running iOS 9.3.5, the situation is unique. Apple no longer signs older iOS versions, and the hardware is too weak to run modern jailbreaks efficiently. Yet, demand remains high for an "extra quality" bypass—a method that does not just tether you to a broken Wi-Fi screen, but gives you actual springboard access with functional apps.
This article covers the most reliable, high-quality methods to bypass the iPhone 4s Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5 without DNS tricks or SIM swapping.
If your error is "SIM Not Supported," software bypasses will fail. You need an IMEI Factory Unlock. This is the only "Extra Quality" solution for a carrier lock.
I’m unable to provide instructions or content that promotes bypassing an iPhone’s Activation Lock. Activation Lock is a critical anti-theft feature from Apple, designed to prevent unauthorized access to a lost or stolen device. Attempting to bypass it—especially on an older device like the iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5—typically involves exploiting security vulnerabilities, using unauthorized tools, or misleading users into sharing personal data.
If you own an iPhone 4s and are legitimately locked out because you’ve forgotten the Apple ID and password, Apple provides official recovery steps through their account recovery process or by providing proof of purchase. I’d be glad to help you draft an informative piece about those legitimate options, or about the risks of using unofficial bypass tools (e.g., data theft, malware, or device bricking). Let me know how you’d like to proceed.
In the world of legacy tech, the iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is often seen as a "digital time capsule." However, for many users, that capsule is locked tight by an Activation Lock, turning a classic piece of hardware into a high-tech paperweight.
Over the years, the story of bypassing this lock has evolved from simple tricks to complex hardware exploits: The "DNS Portal" Era
One of the most famous chapters in this story involves the iCloud DNS Bypass. Users discovered they could trick the phone by connecting to a custom Wi-Fi DNS server (like 104.154.51.7 for North America). Instead of seeing the activation screen, the phone would load a web-based "portal" where users could watch YouTube, browse the web, or play basic games—though it never truly unlocked the phone’s cellular or full app capabilities. The Hardware Hack: Arduino and Checkm8
As security tightened, the community turned to hardware. Because the iPhone 4s uses the A5 chip, it is vulnerable to the Checkm8 exploit, which cannot be patched by software. This led to a more permanent, "extra quality" method involving an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield. By putting the device into a special "pwned" state, technical users could: Delete the setup.app file to skip the lock entirely.
Downgrade the device to older, more nostalgic versions like iOS 6.1.3. The Modern Dilemma
Today, while tools like 3uTools or specialized software like Sliver are often discussed in enthusiast forums, the consensus remains that a true, "perfect" bypass is rare. Most software solutions are "tethered," meaning the lock might return if the phone is restarted or restored.
For those looking for official support, retailers and official channels like the Apple Support Community emphasize that without the original owner's credentials or a valid sales receipt, the device remains legally restricted to protect user privacy.
iPad 2 iOS 9.3.5 Hello screen Activation Lock. How remove it??
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5 is technically challenging because Apple has patched most simple software glitches. While some tools claim "extra quality" results, many are unreliable or potential scams. iphone 4s activation lock bypass ios 935 extra quality
The following sections outline legitimate methods and known technical workarounds. Official Removal Methods
The most reliable way to remove Activation Lock is through official Apple channels.
Original Credentials: Sign in with the Apple ID and password originally used to set up the device.
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: If you have the original proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock support request to Apple. Technical Workarounds (Limited Functionality)
For devices where official methods aren't possible, enthusiasts use specific hardware or software exploits. Note that these often result in a "tethered" bypass, meaning the lock may return if the device is restarted.
The iPhone 4S, a device that was once a flagship model for Apple, but is now an older device. If you're looking to bypass the activation lock on an iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5, I must emphasize that this process can be challenging and may not be possible without the original owner's credentials.
Understanding Activation Lock:
Activation Lock is a security feature designed by Apple to protect iOS devices from unauthorized use. When a device is locked, it requires the Apple ID and password of the original owner to activate and use the device.
Bypassing Activation Lock on iPhone 4S (iOS 9.3.5):
While there are some third-party services and tools claiming to offer bypass solutions, I must advise that:
That being said, here are some general steps you can take:
Lifestyle and Entertainment on iPhone 4S:
Although the iPhone 4S is an older device, you can still enjoy various lifestyle and entertainment apps, such as:
Keep in mind that the iPhone 4S may not support the latest features or apps, and performance might be slower compared to newer devices.
Additional Tips:
The iPhone 4S is an older device, and bypassing the activation lock may not be straightforward. Be cautious when exploring third-party solutions, and prioritize your device's security and your personal data.
Bypassing the iPhone 4s Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5 is a common challenge for legacy device owners. While official methods require original credentials, several technical workarounds—ranging from DNS redirects to advanced hardware-based exploits—exist for "extra quality" or higher-success bypasses. Official Removal (Recommended)
The only permanent and secure way to remove the lock is through official channels:
Original Owner Credentials: Sign in to the Apple ID site or iCloud.com/find to remove the device from the account. After bypassing, immediately:
Apple Support Request: If you have the original proof of purchase, you can submit an Activation Lock Support Request to Apple Support. Technical Bypass Methods
For users without access to original credentials, the following methods are widely used in the legacy jailbreak community: DNS Bypass (Entry-Level)
How it works: By manually changing your Wi-Fi DNS settings during setup, you can redirect the device to a "bypass server".
Limits: This does not unlock the phone; it only allows you to use a web-based portal for apps, music, and browsing. Server Examples: USA: 104.154.51.7 Europe: 104.155.28.90 Asia: 104.155.220.58 Hardware-Based Exploits (High Success)
Arduino Method: This is considered a high-quality, permanent bypass for iOS 9.3.5. It involves using an Arduino Uno with a USB Host Shield to put the device into "pwndfu" mode.
Legacy-iOS-Kit: Once in this state, tools like Legacy-iOS-Kit or Sliver (on a Mac) can delete the setup.app file, allowing you to bypass the activation screen entirely. Third-Party Software Tools
Programs like iMobie AnyUnlock or PassFab iPhone Unlock claim to bypass activation locks for various iOS versions, including legacy models.
Note: Many of these tools require a jailbreak to function and may result in a "tethered" bypass, meaning the lock could return if the device is hard-reset.
For a detailed walkthrough of the technical bypass process on an iPhone 4s: iPhone 4s FULL iCloud Bypass Tutorial Icloud bypass 2021 YouTube• Nov 8, 2021 How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is technically possible through various exploits, though most unauthorized methods are tethered or limit the device's full functionality. Legitimate Removal Methods
The only permanent and officially supported way to remove Activation Lock is through the official Apple Support portal or the original owner.
Owner Credentials: Sign in with the original Apple ID and password on the device or remotely via the iCloud Find My page by selecting "Remove from Account".
Proof of Purchase: If you are the original owner but lost access to your account, you can start an Activation Lock support request with Apple if you have the original sales receipt. Third-Party Bypass Methods
For legacy devices like the iPhone 4s (A5 chip), several unofficial tools exist. Note that these methods often disable cellular services, turning the device into a "Wi-Fi only" iPod.
Technical Analysis of iPhone 4S Activation Lock Bypass on iOS 9.3.5
The iPhone 4S running iOS 9.3.5 represents a unique intersection of legacy hardware and firmware security. While modern iOS versions feature hardened, chip-level hardware encryption, the 32-bit architecture of the iPhone 4S allows for several documented—though often limited—bypass techniques. Summary of Known Methods DNS Bypass
: A widely documented method involving manual modification of DNS settings (e.g., to 104.154.51.7
) during the initial Wi-Fi setup. This does not remove the lock but redirects the device to a third-party server, allowing limited access to games, web browsing, and social media through a browser-based interface. Software-Based Exploits : Tools like attempt to delete or modify the
file within the iOS file system. Success typically results in a "hactivated" state where the device is usable as a media player, but cellular services (SIM signal), iMessage, and FaceTime often remain disabled. Official Removal : Apple provides the only permanent solution through an Activation Lock support request
, provided the user can supply proof of purchase such as a store receipt or invoice. Technical Challenges & Vulnerabilities About the security content of iOS 9.3.5 - Apple Support Result Quality: 8/10
Bypassing the Activation Lock on an is complex because it is a 32-bit device. Standard modern tools like do not support this hardware. Primary Bypass Methods Arduino + USB Host Shield (Recommended):
This is considered the most reliable "permanent" method for the iPhone 4s. You use an Arduino to put the device into Pwned DFU mode , then use software like on a Mac to bypass the lock. iCloud DNS Bypass:
A "no-computer" method that redirects your Wi-Fi traffic through a custom server. While it doesn't unlock the phone, it allows you to use basic apps like YouTube and a web browser within the setup screen. 104.154.51.7 104.155.28.90 104.155.220.58 Software Tools: Desktop applications like Sliver 6.2 Legacy iOS Kit
can facilitate the bypass, though they typically require a Mac or Linux machine. Key Limitations
Expert Solutions for iOS 9.3.5 iCloud and Activation Lock Bypass
For the iPhone 4s on iOS 9.3.5, the "extra quality" bypass described above is the best possible outcome without Apple’s blessing. You will have a functional 32-bit iOS device that can play music, take photos, run older games (like Infinity Blade), and serve as a distraction-free writing device or audio player.
Realistic expectations: You will never get iMessage, FaceTime, or push notifications working perfectly. The App Store may refuse to connect. But for offline legacy use, it is 95% perfect.
Final verdict: If you need a reliable daily driver, recycle the 4s. If you want a nostalgic time capsule with full hardware access, the Phoenix + Setup.app rename method remains the "extra quality" king in 2025.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The author is not responsible for data loss, bricked devices, or legal consequences. Always backup your SHSH blobs before modifying system files.
Bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock on an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 is a technical challenge because the device uses the A5 chip, which requires a hardware-based exploit. Unlike newer devices that can be bypassed using software alone, the iPhone 4s generally requires an Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield to run the "checkm8-A5" exploit. Recommended Bypass Methods
There are two primary technical avenues for bypassing the lock on this specific firmware: The Hardware Exploit Method (Reliable/Permanent):
Required Hardware: An Arduino Uno and a USB Host Shield 2.0. Software: Use tools like Sliver or Legacy iOS Kit.
Process: You load a specific script onto the Arduino that triggers the bootrom exploit when the iPhone is connected in DFU mode. Once "pawned," the software can delete the Setup.app file, allowing you to reach the home screen. The Downgrade Method (Alternative):
Some users have success by downgrading the iPhone 4s to iOS 6.1.3 using Legacy iOS Kit.
On iOS 6.1.3, certain "hacktivation" methods are more accessible, though you may still need the Arduino hardware to initiate the process on an A5 device. Common Limitations
While these methods can get you past the "Activation Lock" screen, they often come with significant trade-offs:
No Cellular Service: Most free bypasses are "tethered" or "no signal," meaning you cannot make calls, use SMS, or use cellular data.
No iCloud Services: You may be unable to sign into a new iCloud account or use the App Store normally without further complex workarounds.
Tethered Nature: If the device dies or restarts, it may return to the activation screen, requiring you to run the bypass script again. Legitimate Alternatives
If you are the original owner or have proof of purchase, the following official routes are always better than a technical bypass:
The iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5 (or 9.3.6) is a legacy device, and bypassing its Activation Lock often requires specific hardware or software tricks due to its 32-bit A5 chip architecture
. While modern "one-click" tools often fail on this version, several community-driven methods still exist for educational purposes. Methods to Bypass Activation Lock on iPhone 4s (iOS 9.3.5)