By Jenefey Aaron

Updated on 2025-06-09

100 % Helpful

Easy Ways to Remove iCloud Activation Lock Without Previous Owner

By Jenefey Aaron

2025-06-09 / Unlock iPhone

Purchasing a second-hand iPhone or iPad can be a great way to save money, but it often comes with unexpected challenges. One of the most common issues is encountering the Activation Lock screen, which requires the previous owner's Apple ID and password to unlock.

There are several methods available to remove the Activation Lock without the previous owner. In this article, we'll explore the most effective ways.

Part 1: Best Way to Remove Activation Lock with PC Software

Part 2: Remove Activation Lock with Online Services [No PC Required]

Part 3: Remove Activation Lock via Apple Support

Part 4: FAQs about Activation Lock Removal

Part 1: Best Way to Remove Activation Lock with PC Software

One of the most reliable methods to remove the Activation Lock is by using trusted PC software. 4uKey iPhone Unlocker stands out as a top choice, as it can bypass the iCloud Activation Lock without needing the previous owner's Apple ID or password.

It supports many iPhone and iPad models. This makes it a practical solution for users who want a simple, do-it-yourself method.

Key Advantages 4uKey iPhone Unlocker

Bypass the Activation Lock without previous original owner's credentials.
Designed for both beginners and experienced users, with a straightforward process.
Proven effectiveness in unlocking devices across various iOS versions.
Compatible with a wide range of iPhone and iPad models.

How to Remove Activation Lock Without Previous Owner Using 4uKey

Download and install 4uKey iPhone Unlocker for free on the computer and choose "Remove iCloud Activation Lock" for iPhone iCloud unlock. Then connect your iPhone to your computer.
Choose “Next” for iPhone iCloud bypass. To prevent file system damage, your iPhone will first enter recovery mode first.
When done, your iPhone will begin the jailbreaking process. Please wait patiently.
When your iPhone is jailbroken successfully, 4uKey will automatically bypass iCloud activation lock.
Now you can unlock iPhone iCloud activation lock on your iPhone successfully with 4uKey iPhone Unlocker.

Other PC Software Options

There are other tools available how to remove activation lock without Apple ID:

iRemove Tools: Offers a straightforward solution to bypass Activation Lock on iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 to 18. Supports a wide range of devices.
CheckM8: Provides tools for removing Activation Lock from iPhones and iPads, with support for various iOS versions.
Broque Ramdisk PRO: Specializes in bypassing Activation Lock on certain iPhone models. Suitable for users with technical expertise.

Pros:

High success rates.
Can be used independently.
Supports a wide range of devices.

Cons:

Some tools may require technical skills.
Pricing varies between tools.
Requires a PC.

Part 2: Remove Activation Lock with Online Services [No PC Required]

If you prefer not to use PC software, online services can help remove the Activation Lock without needing the original owner's credentials.

1. UnlockHere

UnlockHere is a trusted third-party iCloud unlock service that offers a safe, remote, and permanent solution to remove the “locked to owner” message. Powered by AI, this service eliminates the need for the original Apple ID or password. No software downloads or technical skills required.

Steps to Remove Activation Lock without previous owner with UnlockHere:

Visit the UnlockHere and select the “Remove Activation Lock” feature.
Find your IMEI by pressing the sleep button and tapping the “i” icon on the screen. Input the IMEI to start the unlocking process.

Enter your email address for follow-up and receive a confirmation message to verify your request.

Once your unlock is confirmed, the AI-powered tool will remotely contact you to help you unlock your device.
After unlocking, perform a full reset and create a new Apple ID to begin using your device freely.

2. UnlockMaker

UnlockMaker is the only truly free iCloud unlock service on the market, active since January 2021. It allows users to bypass iPhone locked to owner without installing software or jailbreaking the device. This solution is permanent how to remove activation lock without previous owner, safe, and retains full Apple functionality including updates and warranty.

Open any browser and go to UnlockMaker.com. Navigate to the iCloud Unlock section.

Fill in the basic details: select your device type (iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch), enter the IMEI or serial number, and provide a valid email address.
Complete a short verification to prevent spam use. Once verified, the unlock will begin and typically complete in under 5 minutes. You’ll get a confirmation email when it’s done.

Pros

No PC required
Technician handles the unlock process
No technical skills needed

Cons

Success rate may be lower
Pricing varies by tool and can be higher
Unlocking may take a few days and can be interrupted

Part 3: Remove Activation Lock via Apple Support

If you're unable to reach the previous owner, Apple Support is the final and official method to remove the Activation Lock.

While this approach isn't always quick or guaranteed, it can work if you provide the necessary documentation. But you need to present valid proof of purchase to Apple.

Part 4: FAQs about Activation Lock Removal

Q1: Is it possible to remove activation lock without the previous owner?

Yes, it is possible using various methods, including PC software, online services, or through Apple Support.

Q2: How do I remove the activation lock if I don't remember my Apple ID?

You can use tools like 4uKey iPhone Unlocker to bypass the Activation Lock without needing the Apple ID or password.

Q3: Can I remotely remove the activation lock?

If you can contact the previous owner, they can remove the Activation Lock remotely via iCloud.com.

Q4: How to remove activation lock on MacBook without previous owner?

For MacBooks, tools like CheckM8's MacOS Activation Lock Bypass Tool can assist in removing the Activation Lock.

Q5: How to remove activation lock on Apple Watch without previous owner?

Removing the activation lock on an Apple Watch without the previous owner is difficult but possible. You can try the following:

Use Apple Support if you have a valid proof of purchase.
Some third-party services claim to help, but results vary.
The best option is still to contact the previous owner to remove the watch from their iCloud account.

Conclusion

Getting stuck with the iCloud Activation Lock can be frustrating, especially if you don’t have access to the previous owner. Thankfully, there are real solutions to this problem, depending on your situation. If you have a PC and want to handle it yourself, 4uKey iPhone Unlocker is one of the best tools available.

Downloads:

Tenorshare 4uKey - Best iPhone Unlocker

Rated on Trustpilot >

Unlock iPhone/iPad without passcode or Apple ID, remove iCloud Activation lock, and bypass MDM.
Remove Screen Time passcode and view stored passwords like Apple ID and WiFi.