You may not be able to sign in to a new iCloud account in Settings, though you can often sign in to the App Store specifically to download apps. Fake Tools:
Exercise extreme caution. There is no such thing as an unlock code for iCloud. Most reputable bypass tools for iOS 9.3.5 are free and community-developed. Never pay for a service that promises a "permanent IMEI unlock" for iCloud unless it is a verified professional service with a physical presence, as the majority of these online offers are scams. The Reality of iOS 9.3.5 in 2024
: One of the more famous free tools, Lockra1n has been actively developed into 2026. It offers a user-friendly graphical interface for macOS and provides an untethered bypass for many devices, meaning you don't need to re-apply the fix after a reboot. It utilizes the same core bootrom exploit as Checkra1n.
During your research, you might encounter two other names: and SAM .
The phone will skip the activation screen entirely. Note that cellular services (calls/SMS) typically do not work after a bypass. Legacy iOS Kit (Linux/Mac): iphone 4s activation lock bypass ios 935
While it is possible to bypass the lock screen on an iPhone 4s, remember that iOS 9.3.5 is an aging operating system. Most modern apps, including WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram, no longer support this version. Even with a successful bypass, the device's primary value lies in its use as a retro gaming device, a dedicated music player, or a collectible piece of tech history. Share public link
app, though this was largely patched in later iOS 7 and 9 versions. 3. Official & Administrative Bypasses
Before attempting to bypass an iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.5, consider the following technical limitations:
Users often turn to specialized tools and community-developed exploits to "hacktivate" these devices: You may not be able to sign in
: As the final version for the 4s, many modern exploits do not apply to this specific firmware without hardware assistance. Do you have the original purchase receipt , or
If you do not have the credentials or proof of purchase, the following community methods are frequently discussed, though they vary in reliability: 1. DNS Bypass (No Computer)
can also be used as a cheaper, more stable alternative to the Arduino setup. 2. Software-Based Glitches (Temporary)
While the Activation Lock is designed to prevent thieves from using stolen phones, it often traps legitimate owners. Fortunately, because the iPhone 4S is an older device (32-bit architecture), there are specific ways to bypass this, especially on iOS 9.3.5. What is Activation Lock on iOS 9.3.5? Most reputable bypass tools for iOS 9
If these methods are too complex, you may want to try factory resetting the phone through iTunes on a computer, though this will still require the original Apple ID if Find My iPhone was enabled. If you want, I can help you find: for iOS 9.3.5
Method 1: The iCloud DNS Bypass (Quick & Partial Restriction)
Unplug the iPhone from the Arduino and plug it into your Mac. Open a dedicated A5 bypass tool like Sliver (by Apple Tech 752) . Select iPhone 4S -> iOS 9.3.5 Bypass -> Load Ramdisk .
: Tap the "i" next to your Wi-Fi network, select Configure DNS , and change it to a bypass server IP (e.g., 104.154.51.7 for North America). 2. Downgrade to iOS 6.1.3 (Hardware Method)
: Advanced users sometimes use an Arduino Uno with a host shield to trigger a "checkm8" style exploit on the A5 chip. This allows for the deletion of the setup.app file via a custom ramdisk, effectively skipping the activation process altogether. Specialized Software Tools