How to Remove Activation Lock On the Apple iPhone XS Max Without Previous Owner?

Refurbished iPhones or iPads have been a viable option for more and more people, especially with the major cell phone manufacturer, Apple, offering official purchase channels. However, there are many people who buy used phones through non-acquaintances who trade in their own Apple devices. So, the question arises: How to remove the Find My iPhone activation lock without a previous owner? It has become the focus of people’s attention.

The reason can vary, but the recovery process can be exasperating. Fortunately, there are several right approaches and alternatives that can help with the situation. This article will introduce to you some simple and effective tricks to remove the activation lock, even if you lose help from previous owners.

Here is a video for you to learn how to remove Activation Lock on iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch:

Why Apple Devices Get locked by Activation Lock? [A Simple Overview]

In case some users don’t know Activation Lock, we are giving a simple introduction to it. According to Apple, “Activation Lock is a feature that’s designed to prevent anyone else from using your Apple iPhone XS Max, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple Watch if it’s ever lost or stolen. Activation Lock is enabled automatically when you turn on Find My iPhone. Even if you erase your device remotely, the Activation Lock can continue to deter anyone from reactivating your device without your permission. All you need to do is keep Find My iPhone turned on and remember your Apple ID and password.”

Admittedly, it has a good side to follow, but it does have drawbacks to specific people. Here are the pros and cons of Activation lock.

Pros

• Locate and play a sound by Find My iPhone on missing Apple devices, like iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc
• Protect data if a device is stolen

Cons

• Make the first using process more troublesome if you cannot acquire the iCloud login information from the previous owner, after buying a second hand iPhone

To solve this small problem, in this post, we provide you with four effective solutions to help you remove Activation Lock without a previous owner.

Method 1: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner Using Dr.Fone [iOS 12.0 and up]

Without the credential, or iCloud login information from the previous owner, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) could do a big favor. It applies to both MacBook and Windows, and it is a professional bypass tool for an iCloud activation lock. The following steps will help you to remove the iCloud activation lock.

Dr.Fone will access your iOS devices with a couple of clicks. Follow the video instructions below to remove find my iPhone/ iPad activation lock without a previous owner:

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Remove Remove Activation Lock without Password in Minutes

• Remove Apple ID/iCloud Account efficiently.
• Save your Apple iPhone XS Max quickly from the disabled state.
• Free your sim out of any carrier worldwide.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock and enjoy all iCloud services.
• Works for all models of iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch.

4,008,670 people have downloaded it

Step-by-step guide for Windows users

• Step 1. Launch and install Dr.Fone on your PC, and select Screen Unlock from its home page.
• Step 2. Select “_iOS” mode, and click “iCloud Activation Lock Removal” to bypass the iCloud Activation Lock. Then, tap “Start”_.

• Step 3. If your iOS device is running iOS/iPadOS 15.0 to 16.3, you can follow this process. However, for iOS/iPadOS 12.0 to 14.8.1, you must first jailbreak your device by following the Jailbreak Guide .

• Step 4. Then, please carefully read the agreement, confirm and tick it before start removing the iCloud activation lock.

• Step 5. Next, follow the on-screen instructions to put your iOS device to enter DFU mode twice. And make sure your USB connection is stable, and you’ve unlocked the Apple iPhone XS Max device screen.  When it is done, select Got It! button to continue.

• Step 6. Then, Dr.Fone Screen Unlock will start the unlocking process, just take some minutes to its completion. After a while, it will show the following interface as below when it gets finished.

Method 2: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner by Apple Official Support

This method could be very useful, but not that easy because you need to get proof of the purchase from the previous owner first. Once you get the required documents, everything goes simple. Go and contact Apple Support , Apple staff will be able to support you. They will verify the original owner of the phone and then help you unlock the Apple iPhone XS Max device. In addition to proof of purchase, they may ask for other documents as well as your identity cards. They will remove the Activation Lock from your device if your purchase documents are legit.

There are two ways to ask for Apple support:

• Offline method: Visit the Apple Store along with the purchase proof.
• Online method: Call Apple Support or visit its official website for remote assistance in removing the Activation Lock.

Their representatives will provide you with the necessary support and assistance during the process.

Method 3: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via DNS

Activation locks are difficult to get through, but fortunately, few methods work. DNS method can also help you bypass the activation lock and access your device. The best part is, you don’t need the previous owner or proof of purchase.

DNS method is an effective technique to remove find my iPhone activation lock without the previous owner. It works for the operating system running in the older versions. It is a simple technique for a technical person, and it works for both iPhone and iPad. This method utilizes the Wi-Fi DNS settings of the Apple iPhone XS Max device. Follow the steps:

• Step 1: Set up the Apple iPhone XS Max as a new device.
• Step 2: Connect to a Wi-Fi network on the Wi-Fi settings page. And tap the “_i_” icon next to your network name.

• Step 3: On the next screen, tap on the Configure DNS option.

• Step 4: Choose the “_Manual_” option from the page as below.

• Step 5: Tap “**+** Add Server”, and try one of the following DNS values:

• USA: 104.154.51.7

• South America: 35.199.88.219

• Europe: 104.155.28.90

• Asia: 104.155.220.58

• Australia and Oceania: 35.189.47.23

• Other: 78.100.17.60

• Step 6: Your phone will be unlocked.

Pros

• This process can be manually done by devices’ Wi-Fi settings.
• It doesn’t need any external device or software.

Cons

• The process might be a little complicated for a non-technical person to operate.
• The method may not work for the latest versions of the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad.

Method 4: Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner via the iCloud Web

If you can not reach the previous owner, but you are still in touch with them, they can still unlock your phone remotely by following a set of instructions. This whole process can be performed remotely with the help of iCloud web. If your previous owner cooperates, they can help with the process.

The process will involve a few steps to remove your Apple iPhone XS Max from their account remotely. After this process, you can set your device as a new phone. The activation lock will be permanently gone from your phone.

Here are the step-by-step instructions on removing my iPhone/iPad activation lock without the previous owner using the iCloud web. You can share these steps with the previous owner :

• Open iCloud website in a browser.
• Sign in to the existing iCloud account in use with the locked iPhone.
• Once you are logged in, click on the option that says Find iPhone.

Now you can remotely perform actions on your phone. Further :

• Click on the drop-down named All Devices and choose your Apple iPhone XS Max.
• Click on Erase iPhone.

Final Words

By now, you are familiar that there are many ways to bypass activation lock. So, If you face a situation with the activation lock, you will have a couple of options to get through the situation. Just decide the correct method and approach according to your circumstances and availability of resources. If you are a seller, you should disable the activation lock before selling your phone. Erasing the Apple iPhone XS Max device back to factory settings will not put the buyer in any trouble.

To Disable Activation Lock

• Go to settings > Tap your name at the top of the list > Tap iCloud > Tap Find My iPhone > Toggle the “Find My iPhone” > Type your Apple ID password.

To Reset The Device

• Go to settings > General > Reset > Click “erase all settings” >Give confirmation > Wait until the process is complete.

We hope this post will help you figure out the right way to remove the Find My iPhone/ iPad Activation Lock without a previous owner. If you have any questions, please leave us in the comment section below.

How to Bypass Activation Lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad?

Apple has long been famous for providing sound devices, with nifty safety and user-friendly features. With that said, if you just purchased a used iOS device, you may be required to bypass the activation lock on your device using iCloud, or the previous user’s account. Before we take a look at how to bypass an activation lock on an Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad, let’s examine what an activation lock on an Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad entails.

Part 1. What is Activation Lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad?

This theft deterrent feature is cool for the sole reason that it helps keep your data safe, in case of misplacement or thievery. Without access to the owner’s Apple ID and/or password, accessing the Apple iPhone XS Max device becomes impossible. Unfortunately for used purchases, you may have procured a used item legitimately, but have no access to said device.

This feature is enabled by default when the Find My Apple iPhone XS Max option is selected on an iOS device. It is necessary when a user needs to erase data on an iOS device, set it up using a new Apple ID, or turn off Find My Apple iPhone XS Max. Knowing the activation lock is enabled on an Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad is easy, as the screen prompts you to input a user ID and password.

Part 2. How to Bypass Activation Lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad with Previous Owner’s Account?

Using a valid Apple ID and password is the easiest way to bypass the activation lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini. In any case, if you legitimately purchased the Apple iPhone XS Max device from the previous owner, they should have no qualms giving you these details. If it’s a new device, and you are the original owner, you will have this information ready to use for activation. Whatever the case, follow the steps below to remove the activation lock to Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini.

• Step 1. Have the previous owner enter their details on the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini, or request them to send the same to you.
• Step 2. Fire up the Apple iPhone XS Max device and when prompted on the Activation Lock Screen, enter the Apple ID and password.
• Step 3. Within a few minutes, the home screen should appear on the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad.
• Step 4. Upon reaching this page, navigate to the settings tab to sign out of iCloud.

A note for users before we proceed with the bypass steps:
Users on iOS 12 or earlier can locate this option on settings, navigating to iCloud, then signing out. For iOS 13 or later, click on settings, then your name, and sign out.

• Step 5. Chances are, the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad will prompt you to enter the original user’s ID and Password. Simply enter the details available to you.
• Step 6. Finally, the best part of the unlocking process; navigate to the settings tab to erase all data. Open up settings, click reset and proceed to erase all content, including settings.
• Step 7. At this point, your Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad will restart/reboot, allowing you to set up the Apple iPhone XS Max device anew.

There are a few web-based resources and tricks that facilitate this procedure. Suffice to say, these methods, known as Jailbreaking, do not work when activation lock is enabled. Stick to using credible methods like the one listed above. Alternatively, you can use iCloud to bypass the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini activation lock. It does, however, require the original owner’s iCloud information. Assuming they are in contact with you, have them use the following steps to bypass the activation lock.

Part 3. How to Remove iCloud Activation Lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Without Password Using Dr.Fone?

This cool software program is available for use with every iOS device out there. It offers utility for all matters security, revamping or repairing as well as unlocking of iOS devices. On removing Apple ID and activation lock without a password, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is one of the few recommended programs.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Remove Activation Lock from iPhone/Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad without Password

• Remove the 4-digit/6-digit passcode, Touch ID, and Face ID.
• Bypass iCloud activation lock and Apple ID without password.
• Remove mobile device management (MDM) iPhone.
• A few clicks and the iOS lock screen is gone.
• Fully compatible with all iOS device models and iOS versions.

4,395,216 people have downloaded it

Follow the guide to remove activation lock on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad without a password:

• Step 1. Click the “Start Download” button above to Download Dr.Fone onto your computer. Once the interface pops up, select the Screen Unlock option.
• Step 2. Then select iCloud Activation Lock Removal.

• Step 3. Start the Remove process, and connect your Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad to your computer.

• Step 6. Wait a moment for the removal process.

Part 4. How to Bypass Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini Activation Lock Using iCloud.com?

• Step 1. The original user (or yourself) should proceed to iCloud and sign in using a valid Apple ID and password. Goes without saying that they have to be valid details.
• Step 2. Click on the option to Find iPhone.
• Step 3. Select All Devices, and a screen should appear similar to the one below.

• Step 4. Select the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini that you need to unlock.
• Step 5. Click on the option to erase the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad, then proceed to remove the Apple iPhone XS Max device from the account.
• Step 6. Completing this process will remove the Apple iPhone XS Max device from the previous user’s account, subsequently removing the activation lock from your Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad. Restart the Apple iPhone XS Max device and a different interface should appear, without the activation lock screen.

A popular query regarding the activation lock on an Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad Mini is why access is denied if you are not the original owner? This is explained in detail below.

Conclusion

Having an iOS device is a unique and satisfying experience, one that many smart device users wish they could have. On that note, activation locks on Apple iPhone XS Max or iPads and other iOS devices are meant to protect user information and ensure privacy. Furthermore, using shady programs downloaded from the web may lead to the destruction of a device. Use the handy methods suggested above to fully enjoy the features on your iOS device.

The Ultimate Guide to Bypassing iCloud Activation Lock on Apple iPhone XS Max

For many iPhone users, the dreaded iCloud activation lock can be an unnerving barrier to getting the most out of their devices. Whether you’ve encountered it after purchasing a second-hand iPhone, or you’ve simply forgotten your login credentials, this lock demands attention and often a bit of digital gymnastics to unlock. This comprehensive guide is for you, equipped with detailed instructions on various methods to bypass the iCloud activation lock on your Apple iPhone XS Max.

If you’re ready to take back control of your device, read on. We’ll walk you through the process step by step and arm you with the knowledge to access your smartphone’s full potential.

Part 1: How to bypass iCloud activation on iPhone through the DNS method?

This method is one of the oldest tricks in the guide, and while it still works for some users with specific models and iOS versions, it doesn’t guarantee universal success. Here’s a brief overview of how to proceed:

In the activation window, press the home button and then select Wi-Fi settings and then tap on the ‘I’ bonded by a circle. Now it’s time to remove the existing DNS server and put a custom one in motion. Now, let’s follow the steps below to bypass iCloud activation on iPhone.

How to bypass iCloud activation lock?

Step 1: Start the Setup Process

Turn on your Apple iPhone XS Max and start the setup process until you reach the page where you’re asked to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Select a Custom DNS Server

When prompted to connect to a Wi-Fi network and input a password, select “i” on your Apple iPhone XS Max screen, which will take you to a menu with network details. Tap “Configure DNS” and choose “Manual”.

Enter a DNS server address based on your geographic location:

• For USA/North America, enter 104.154.51.7
• For Europe, enter 104.155.28.90
• For Asia, enter 104.155.220.58
• For any other area, enter 78.109.17.60

Step 3: Proceed with iCloud Bypass

Return to Wi-Fi settings and select your desired network. You might need to enter a password, but instead, you can skip this step and continue. Your Apple iPhone XS Max will try to activate with these new settings and may allow you to bypass the activation lock.

Video Guide: How to bypass iCloud activation through DNS?

Note: The DNS method is an experimental and non-guaranteed way to bypass the iCloud activation lock. It is worth trying if you prefer not to use third-party tools, but be prepared for the possibility that it may not work for your specific device or iOS version.

Tips: During iCloud, we use it most for data backup to avoid data loss. But if you can’t access your iCloud, maybe you are supposed to back up your iPhone data to the computer .

Part 2: How to bypass iCloud activation on iPhone with a smart tool? [iOS 12.0~16.6]

A fast and safe tool to unlock locked iCloud

While talking about a suitable tool to bypass iCloud activation, missing out on Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) doesn’t make any sense as it is the most trusted and loved tool by millions of users. Available for Windows and Mac operating systems, it offers an extremely easy process to make the work of bypassing iCloud done. Many other tools don’t hesitate to make false promises, but Wondershare has always managed to upkeep the security and trust of the users and does what it says. Let us bring you closer to this iCloud bypass tool.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Unlock iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch screen and Activation lock within minutes

• Easy for the users to unlock locked iCloud by providing a really easy interface.
• Exceptional speed for unlocking i.e., works in less than a minute.
• Compatible with iPhone 5S to iPhone X, iPad 4 to iPad 7, and iPod touch 7 to iPod touch 9 running iOS 12.0 to iOS 16.6.
• Effectively remove the Apple iPhone XS Max lock screen without the passcode.

3981454 people have downloaded it

Check out the following guide to know how to use this tool to bypass iCloud activation in detail.

Bypass iCloud activation on iPhone with Dr.Fone

Step 1: Click the “Download Now” button above to download Dr.Fone on your computer

Connect your Apple iPhone XS Max to the system and launch the Dr.Fone. From its home, select the ‘Screen Unlock’ section.

Just choose the feature ‘iCloud Activation Lock Removal’ to unlock the Activation lock of an iOS device to continue.

Step 2: Confirm device information

You will see your device information. Click ‘Unlock Now’ after confirming all device details are correct.

Step 3: Put your Apple iPhone XS Max into DFU mode or jailbreak your Apple iPhone XS Max properly

For iPhone users running iOS 15.316.3, to bypass the iCloud activation lock, you need to follow the instruction you will see to put your device into DFU mode. For iPhone users running iOS 12.014.8.1 or iOS 16.4~16.6, you should follow textual guidelines for jailbreaking your Apple iPhone XS Max .

Step 4: Remove iCloud activation lock successfully

Dr.Fone will bypass activation lock automatically after your device is in DFU mode. Wait patiently to complete the bypass process.

Click here


Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) provides a hassle-free experience, consistently working across multiple iPhone models and iOS versions. It ensures that you can bypass the activation lock without password .

An optional tool to bypass iCloud activation lock

There are a limited number of functional tools available that can come in handy in bypassing the iCloud activation for your Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad. One of the names is ‘iCloud activation bypass tool version 1.4’. The tool’s name abides by what it says and is a really easy tool to use.

Below are the steps to bypass iCloud activation by using this tool.

1. Download and install the program on your desktop.

2. Launch the application and connect your Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad via the USB cable to your desktop.

   

3. The tool will now scan your device and reads its IMEI number.

4. Click on the ‘Bypass Activation Lock’ button and patiently wait for the procedure to be completed. The tool, with the help of your devices IMEI code will connect to the Apple servers from where it will terminate and delete all linked iCloud accounts of your device.

5. Once the process is complete, disconnect your phone and reboot it. You will notice that the iCloud lock has been permanently removed and hence no prior activation is required to use the Apple iPhone XS Max device.

Tips: If you’d like to know more about iCloud bypass tools, you can just read this article: Top 8 iCloud Bypass Tools .

Part 3: How to bypass iCloud activation on iOS 11 devices?

Starting with iOS 11, Apple has introduced a bizarre bug in their Activation mechanism that allows you to bypass iCloud activation completely (with SIM card working) in certain conditions. The bug relies on the passcode activation method and requires Second Factor Authentication (2FA) to be enabled on the account to which the Apple iPhone XS Max device is locked. As of iOS 11, the passcode activation option appears for the iCloud Locked devices if 2FA is on.

The bug allows a user to input a false passcode “0000” or “0000” if the requirement is for a 6-digit passcode a few times, then leave the Apple iPhone XS Max device to rest for ~1 hour, so that the session with the Apple Activation Server (albert.apple.com) expires. After that, the user would input the false passcode a few more times and the Apple iPhone XS Max device will skip the activation part, essentially disabling Find My iPhone server-side.

A video tutorial on how to apply this method can be followed here:

Note: You can only follow this tutorial on iOS 13/.x. iOS 10 and iOS 9 versions do not have the “Activate with passcode” option. Apple has patched this bug on the newer firmware, so it is recommended to try on iOS 11.1.1 and lower.

If 2FA is not enabled in the account, you will not see the “Activate with Passcode” option under the Username and Password fields. Instead, you will see an option called “Activation Help”.

Part 4: How to erase data remotely from your lost iPhone?

If your Apple iPhone XS Max is lost or stolen, one of the first steps you should take is to erase the data remotely. This not only protects your personal information but also removes the activation lock.

Note: Before proceeding, one should know that once all the data is erased from your Apple iPhone XS Max, you will no longer be able to use ‘Find my iPhone’ and all your data will be erased.

Steps to erase data remotely from your lost iPhone

1. Launch Find My iPhone on any iOS device and enter your account credentials. You can use any iOS device for this procedure.

   

2. Once you log in, you’ll be able to view all the Apple iPhone XS Max devices linked to your account. Select the Apple iPhone XS Max device you wish to erase.

3. Please note that your device will be viewable only if the Find my iPhone feature is on your lost device and is active.

   

4. Tap on the actions button on the bottom and tap on erasing.

   

5. You will be asked for confirmation to erase your lost iPhone and will then require you to fill in your account credentials for one last time.

![confirm erase iphone](https://images.wondershare.com/drfone/others/icloud-locked-how-to-bypass-icloud-activation-on-iphone-4_638.jpg)![enter apple id erase iphone](https://images.wondershare.com/drfone/others/icloud-locked-how-to-bypass-icloud-activation-on-iphone-5_639.jpg)

6. Now you will require to fill in a contact number that would appear on your lost iPhone along with a suitable message. This way, a generous person could get in contact with you to help you retrieve your Apple iPhone XS Max.

   

7. Once the required information is obtained, the erasing of data will start and you’ll be notified when it completes.

Video Guide

It’s pretty easy to keep your iCloud account safe if you know the simple tricks. Whether you are using iCloud on your Apple iPhone XS Max or any other Apple device, following these steps will ensure that your information is kept secure. And it’s really easy to bypass iCloud activation!

Part 5: How to unlock iCloud on activated iPhone / iPad / iPod?

How to remove iCloud activation lock for all iOS 13/12/11/x, iPhones 100%, and lower-version devices?

Here is how:

1. Download first the customized iTunes backup without iCloud (“Find my iPhone” should be turned OFF).

2. Connect your locked device to iTunes. Then follow the instructions in the video below, and you can add a new iCloud ID account and use the Apple iPhone XS Max or iPad as normal.

Note: This method will not remove iCloud from the Apple server. If you check your IMEI, you still have iCloud ON. This method, however, will remove iCloud from the local device iPhone / iPad / iPod.

Besides, Apple only offers 5GB of free storage for each iCloud account. If your iCloud storage is full or getting close, you will get annoying popups every day. You can follow these 14 simple hacks to fix iCloud storage full on your Apple iPhone XS Max/iPad.

Conclusion

Unlocking your Apple iPhone XS Max from the iCloud activation lock requires patience, precision, and tech-savviness. Choose a method that suits your comfort and device specifics: DNS servers, tools like Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) , or Apple’s support. Evaluate methods, watch out for scams, and trust reliable solutions. The journey to an iCloud-free iPhone may have twists, but many have succeeded—so can you. This guide aims to help you reclaim your Apple iPhone XS Max’s functionality and demystify iCloud locks. Remember, patience, research, and the right approach are key.