How To Bypass Activation Lock on iPhone Xs / Xs Max

In this guide, I’m sharing reliable methods to bypass the iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone Xs and Xs Max, based on my hands-on experience testing these solutions.

Each method has been carefully reviewed to give you the best possible options, even if you don’t have the Apple ID password or access to the previous owner’s account.

Read on to explore straightforward, effective ways to unlock your device.

How to Remove Activation Lock on a Used iPhone Xs

If you purchased or received a used iPhone, contact the previous owner and ask them to remove the iCloud Activation Lock. This can be done in person or remotely. If they forgot to do this before transferring the phone, it’s a simple request as long as they know the Apple account credentials and the device isn’t flagged as lost or stolen.

They can remove the Apple ID remotely by following these steps:

1. Find your IMEI or Serial Number. For an iPhone or cellular iPad, dial *#06# to view the IMEI. For Wi-Fi-only iPads or Apple Watches, use the Serial Number.
2. Go to the DirectUnlocks website and enter your IMEI or Serial Number.
   
3. In the dropdown menu, select your device model.
4. Click on “Unlock iCloud!” to view the details and pricing for your order.
   

   

5. Check the box indicating agreement with the terms and conditions.
6. Choose your payment method and complete the transaction securely.
   
7. Look for a confirmation email with your order details and estimated completion time.

Turn Off Find My iPhone to Disable Activation Lock

If Activation Lock prevents you from using your iPhone Xs, Apple’s official solution is to sign in with your Apple ID and password.

If you forgot your Apple ID or password, visit the iForgot website and follow the instructions to reset them.

If you need to locate your Apple ID, try these steps:

• On another Apple device, go to iCloud or Media & Purchases.
• On a Mac, check System Preferences.
• On Apple TV, look under Settings.
• On the iForgot page, select Look up Apple ID and provide your details to retrieve it.

For more help, review the Apple ID reset instructions.

Free iCloud Unlock

To bypass Activation Lock on iPhone Xs for free, use the Apple ID and password when prompted. If you don’t have the credentials, try the DNS bypass method:

1. Turn on the phone.
2. Proceed through the setup process until you reach the Choose WiFi Network screen.
3. Tap the i icon next to your WiFi network.
4. Select Configure DNS > Manual > Add Server and enter the closest IP from the list below:
   • USA: 104.154.51.7
   • South America: 35.199.88.219
   • Europe: 104.155.28.90
   • Asia: 104.155.220.58
   • Australia/Oceania: 35.189.47.23
   • Other regions: 78.100.17.60
5. Tap Back to return to the previous screen.
6. Select your Wi-Fi network again, enter the Wi-Fi password, and tap Join.
7. When the iPhone attempts to activate, press Back again to return to the WiFi screen. The bypass page, iCloudDNSBypass.net, should appear.

For more information, visit the guide on free iCloud unlock options.

Using an Activation Lock Bypass Tool

If contacting the previous owner isn’t possible, you can use an activation lock bypass tool or service. Be cautious and choose a reputable provider to avoid scams.

Many websites claim to unlock Activation Lock but may offer ineffective solutions or scams.

Scams to Avoid

• Software downloads or hacks that damage your computer.
• Online tools claiming to connect to Apple servers but require filling surveys or clicking ads.
• Paid PDFs with incorrect instructions.

Typical Fees

Prices for iCloud unlock services range from $40 to $100 USD. Some services split their fees into a deposit and a final fee:

• Deposit: A small initial payment that makes the service appear affordable.
• Final fee: A larger fee required to complete the unlock.

Always check the full cost to avoid unexpected charges. When we reviewed bypass services, we considered this split pricing to compare options accurately.

There are two main ways you can bypass Activation Lock yourself:

1. Use a trusted bypass service with a refund policy if it fails.
2. Try a free trial of a software tool to test before buying.

Using a Service to Remove iCloud Lock

In recent testing, I evaluated several tools to find the best iCloud bypass service, concluding that DirectUnlocks provides the most reliable option.

For more step-by-step instructions, see our DirectUnlocks review.

1. On DirectUnlocks, enter your IMEI number.
2. Select your iPhone model, then click Unlock iCloud!
   
3. Agree to the terms and conditions.
   
4. Select your preferred payment method and complete the payment.
   
5. Within 24 hours, you will receive confirmation via email that the unlock has been completed.

Unlocking iPhone Xs with a Third-Party Tool

Some software tools can also bypass Activation Lock. These vary widely in quality. Choosing a reliable option is essential to avoid damaging your device or computer.

After testing several tools, I found iBypasser to be the most reliable.

Key features of iBypasser include:

• Free trial
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Easy setup
• Responsive support team
• Regular updates
• Positive customer feedback

For detailed instructions, visit our iBypasser review and download a free trial copy.

What is Activation Lock?

Activation Lock is a security feature in Apple devices, including iPhones, that prevents unauthorized use. Once activated, the iPhone is tied to your Apple account, and only the correct Apple ID can reset or reactivate the device. This helps protect your information if the device is lost or stolen.

Activation Lock is managed through the Find My app, which can help you track, lock, or erase the device remotely.

Wrap up

The demand to bypass iCloud Activation Lock on Apple devices is high, which has led to many unreliable services and scams. When bypassing Activation Lock, it’s safest to use Apple’s official solutions when possible.

If official methods aren’t suitable, follow the trusted options in this guide for the best results.