The Best Methods to Unlock the ‘iPhone Locked to Owner’ for Apple iPhone 12 mini

Being locked out of your new iPhone can be a frustrating experience. It could be due to a forgotten passcode, a second-hand purchase with an activation lock, or any other reason. Facing the “iPhone Locked to Owner” scenario can be hard as the fault doesn’t lie with you. Regardless of the fact, finding a solution to unlock an “iPhone Locked to Owner“ can be a daunting task.

We bring you a comprehensive guide that explores the best methods to unlock an “iPhone Locked to Owner.” This article provides a detailed guide covering official and unofficial methods.

Part 1: A Brief Overview of the Functionality of Activation Lock

Activation Lock is a strong and innovative security feature introduced by Apple. This lock is available on Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. It is designed to prevent unauthorized access and use of a device in case it is lost, stolen, or misplaced. Here’s a brief overview of the features of Activation Lock:

Device Association

The Activation Lock works by associating a device with the iCloud account of the owner. When the Apple iPhone 12 mini device is set up or restored, it prompts the user to sign in with their Apple ID and activates Activation Lock.

Activation Lock Status

Once enabled, Activation Lock securely stores the Apple iPhone 12 mini device’s unique identifier (IMEI or serial number). It also stores the associated iCloud account details on Apple’s servers. This information is used to verify the Apple iPhone 12 mini device’s status during activation and prevent unauthorized use.

Locking Mechanism

If a device with Activation Lock is lost or stolen, the owner can activate Lost Mode using the Find My app or iCloud website. Lost Mode remotely locks the Apple iPhone 12 mini device, preventing anyone from accessing the user’s data. It also prevents device use without the owner’s Apple ID and password.

Device Recovery

In Lost Mode, the owner can provide contact information and display a custom message on the Apple iPhone 12 mini device’s screen. These can help in facilitating its return. The device remains locked until the owner either unlocks it through iCloud or erases its data remotely.

iCloud Activation Lock Bypass

With Activation Lock, you get an added layer of security. This makes it challenging for unauthorized individuals to use a locked device. Apple’s servers confirm the Apple iPhone 12 mini device’s activation status before allowing access to the OS. Thus, bypassing Activation Lock requires the original owner’s Apple ID and password.

Activation Lock on Used Devices

When purchasing a used Apple device, you should ensure that Activation Lock is disabled. Otherwise, the Apple iPhone 12 mini device will remain locked to the previous owner’s iCloud account. Apple provides guidelines and procedures for sellers to remove Activation Lock.

Part 2: 5 Best Methods To Remove the Apple iPhone 12 mini Locked to Owner Security

Having an iPhone locked to its previous owner’s security can be frustrating. That’s why finding effective methods to remove the lock is crucial. Luckily, various methods exist to bypass the Apple iPhone 12 mini locked to the owner for free. Given below are the top 5 methods to resolve this issue:

Method 1: Use the Old iOS Passcode To Unlock the Apple iPhone 12 mini device

If you’ve recently obtained a used iPhone, there is a possibility that the old iOS passcode might still be effective. When an iPhone is locked to its owner, you will find an option to unlock the Apple iPhone 12 mini device using the passcode. It presents another viable option to remove the lock.

To proceed, you will need to contact the previous owner of the Apple iPhone 12 mini device and request the passcode. Use the following guide after getting the old passcode of your Apple iPhone 12 mini:

• Step: Access your locked iPhone and tap “Unlock with Passcode.” On the following screen, enter the old passcode to remove the Activation Lock.

  

Method 2: Ask the Owner To Erase the Apple iPhone 12 mini device Using iCloud

The passcode is not the only thing you can ask from the previous owner of the iPhone. You can also ask the previous owner to erase your device remotely. It can be helpful if the previous owner doesn’t remember the passcode or you are unable to meet them in person.

To make this procedure work, the owner will need to use the Find My Device feature from the iCloud website. Here is what the owner needs to do to resolve Activation Lock from your Apple iPhone 12 mini:

• Step 1: Access the iCloud website on your computer’s browser and log in using Apple ID. Afterward, click the “Find My” option.

• Step 2: On the following screen, select your Apple iPhone 12 mini from “All Devices.” Now choose “Erase iPhone” from the available options to erase the Apple iPhone 12 mini device and remove the Activation Lock.

Method 3: Use the DNS Method To Unlock the Apple iPhone 12 mini Locked to Owner

When you are unable to access the Apple iPhone 12 mini device, the DNS method can be an alternative solution. This method involves changing the DNS settings on your Apple iPhone 12 mini to bypass the activation lock screen. However, the procedure works only for devices running on older iOS versions.

The reason is that the process uses a loophole to allow you access to the Apple iPhone 12 mini device. This loophole has now been patched by Apple. Given below is the detailed process to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 mini Activation Lock:

• Step 1: Power on your iDevice or restart it if your Apple iPhone 12 mini is already powered on. Access your Apple iPhone 12 mini Settings to tap “Wi-Fi” and navigate to the “Choose Wi-Fi Network” option.

• Step 2: Select “More Wi-Fi Settings” using the “i” symbol next to the displayed Wi-Fi network. Here, choose “Configure DNS” and follow it by selecting the “Manual” option.

• Step 3: Afterward, press “Add Server,” located under “DNS Servers.” Now enter the appropriate DNS server address based on your location:

• For users in the United States/North America: 104.154.51.7

• For users in Europe: 104.155.28.90

• For users in Asia: 104.155.220.58

• For users in the rest of the world: 78.109.17.60

• Step 4: Save the changes by selecting “Save.” Use the back arrow button to go back and choose “Ask to Join Networks.” Enter the network password and tap “Join.” Press the back arrow button when your Apple iPhone 12 mini attempts to activate. Afterward, continue to set up your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

Method 4: Take Help From the Online iCloud Activation Lock Removal Service

What to do if you have been unable to contact the previous owner and the DNS method isn’t working? The answer is you can also employ an online iCloud Activation removal service. These services charge you some money and unlock your Apple iPhone 12 mini. All you need to provide them is your Apple iPhone 12 mini IMEI number. The process is done remotely and takes 24 to 48 hours to complete.

Ensure your device IMEI is not blacklisted before sending it for the unlocking process. Described below are steps to use DirectUnlocks, an iCloud Activation removal service:

• Step 1: Use your computer’s browser to visit the official DriectUnlocks website. Enter your Apple iPhone 12 mini’s IMEI number and select the Apple iPhone 12 mini model in the provided box.
• Step 2: Once you have entered the details, tap “Remove Activation Lock.” Afterward, select a payment method to pay for the service. It will take up to 48 hours to unlock your device.

Method 5: Remove the iCloud Activation Lock With the Best Screen Unlock Tool – Wondershare Dr.Fone

Not having access to your purchased iPhone and no solution working to resolve the locked-to-owner iPhone issue can be disheartening. However, worrying is unnecessary as we have the best solution. To bypass the iCloud Activation lock, the best tool to use is Wondershare Dr.Fone. With this tool’s help, you can remove the lock and access your Apple iPhone 12 mini without restrictions.

Aside from bypassing the iCloud Activation lock, it can also help you remove or bypass MDM. Furthermore, it also excels at unlocking iPhone screen locks. This tool has the ability to unlock all types of screen locks like a passcode, Touch ID, and Face ID.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

• Wondershare Dr.Fone lets you remove the Screen Time Passcode without needing the actual password.
• With this tool, you can also remove your Apple ID from your Apple iPhone 12 mini if you have forgotten the password.
• This tool can also remove SIM locks or carrier restrictions placed on the iPhone.

Steps To Remove the iCloud Activation Lock With Wondershare Dr.Fone

Removing the iCloud Activation Lock with Wondershare Dr.Fone is simple and fast. You don’t need any technical skills to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 mini. Follow these steps to remove iCloud Activation Lock with Dr.Fone:

• Step 1: Choose iCloud Activation Lock Removal

After launching the Dr.Fone on your computer, move to “Screen Unlock” in the “Toolbox” tab. Here, choose “iOS” and click “iCloud Activation Lock Removal.” Now connect your locked Apple iPhone 12 mini to the computer using a reliable USB cable.

• Step 2: Initiate the iCloud Activation Lock Removal Process

Afterward, tap “Start” to begin the iCloud Activation Lock bypassing process. You will first have to confirm whether your device is GSM or CDMA. If the Apple iPhone 12 mini device is GSM, the unlocking process won’t harm it. However, you will lose calling or other cellular functions if it is CDMA.

• Step 3: Bypass the iCloud Activation Lock Removal

After thoroughly considering the ramifications, tap “Unlock Now” to proceed. Now you will need to jailbreak your Apple iPhone 12 mini, which you can do using the guides provided in the program. Once you have jailbroken your Apple iPhone 12 mini, the iCloud Activation Lock bypassing process will start. Wait for the process to complete; once it does, tap “Done.”

Conclusion

To summarize, Wondershare Dr.Fone stands out as the best choice when it comes to unlocking an “iPhone Locked to Owner.” It has advanced features, a dynamic interface, and a proven track record. Wondershare Dr.Fone offers the most reliable and effective methods to regain access to your locked iPhone.

Wondershare Dr.Fone’s comprehensive toolkit provides a range of options to cater to different scenarios. Whether you’ve forgotten your passcode, purchased a second-hand iPhone with an activation lock , or encountered other locked-out situations, Wondershare Dr.Fone offers tailored solutions to meet your needs. Moreover, Wondershare Dr.Fone’s approach ensures a seamless and secure unlocking process.

3 Easy Ways to Factory Reset a Locked Apple iPhone 12 mini Without iTunes

There are a few causes that you might need to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. Perhaps you forgot your passcode and can’t seem to remember it, no matter how many times you try. Maybe you’re selling your Apple iPhone 12 mini and want to ensure that all your data is wiped from the Apple iPhone 12 mini device before handing it over to someone else.

Whatever the reason, a few different ways can help you factory reset locked iPhones without iTunes.

Here are some ways to finish the factory reset on a locked iPhone without iTunes.

Let’s get started.

Easy App to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

If you search for a simple and effective way to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes, you should check out Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock. This professional iOS screen unlocks tool can help you erase all kinds of data from your Apple iPhone 12 mini and help you unlock your device within a few minutes.

For this, you will need to follow the steps given below.

Step #1: Download and Install Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on a Computer or Mac:

First, download Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock on your computer or Mac. Once the software is downloaded, install it on your system and launch it.

Step #2: Select Screen Unlock:

On the main interface of Dr.Fone, you need to select “ Screen Unlock. “ You may see many options, but you will have to choose Screen Unlock because it will allow you to remove the passcode from your locked iPhone.

Step #3: Get your Apple iPhone 12 mini in Recovery Mode and Make it connected to the Computer:

You must put your Apple iPhone 12 mini in recovery mode and then connect it to the computer using a USB cable. If you don’t know how to put your Apple iPhone 12 mini into recovery mode, don’t worry, you will all the instructions on the screen.

Once Dr. Fone detects your device, you will see the following screen.

Step #4: Choose the Appropriate Firmware and Download it:

After your Apple iPhone 12 mini is in recovery mode, you need to select the appropriate firmware for your device. Once you have selected the firmware, click on the “ Download “ button to start downloading it.

Step #5: Reset your Apple iPhone 12 mini:

Once the firmware is downloaded, you can click on the “Unlock Now” button to begin resetting your device.

Your locked iPhone has now been successfully unlocked without iTunes after the reset process has been completed.

The process will take a few minutes if you have a strong internet connection because the Firmware may take some time to download. So be patient and wait for the process to be completed.

3 Simple Methods to Factory Reset Locked iPhone

Besides the above-given method, other methods can also help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes.

These methods are as follows:

Method #1: Factory reset via the Find My feature on your device

Resetting your locked iPhone without iTunes is one of the most effective methods. You can use this method if you have set up the “ Find My iPhone “ function on your device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to icloud.com from any web browser and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Choose the Apple iPhone 12 mini device you wish to erase and click “Erase iPhone.”

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Now that your device has been erased, you can reset it as a new one.

Method #2: Use the Find My feature via another device to remotely factory reset your device (your apple id, password, and Internet required)

This is another method you can use if you have the “ Find My iPhone “ feature on your device. You can use this method to remotely factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes by using another iOS device.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: On another iOS device, go to iCloud and log in with your Apple ID and password.

Step 2: Select “ Find My iPhone “ and select “ All Devices. “

Step 3: Click on “Erase iPhone” after selecting the Apple iPhone 12 mini device you want to erase.

Step 4: Enter your Apple ID password when prompted, and click on the “ Erase “ button to proceed.

Your device will now be erased, and you can set it up as a new device.

Method #3: Enter the Recovery Mode of the Finder

If you want to factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes and any data loss, then this is the method you should use. This method will put your device into recovery mode, and then you can restore it from a previous backup.

To do this, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Finder on your computer and connect your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

Step 2: Click “ General “ and then “ Reset. “

Step 3: Choose the “ Erase All Content and Settings “ option and confirm by clicking “ Erase Now “.

Your device will now be erased, and it’ll become a new device.

FAQs

1. Can a Factory Reset Bypass the Lock screen Passcode on iPhone?

Yes. A factory reset will bypass the lock screen passcode on your Apple iPhone 12 mini and allow you to access it without a passcode. However, all your data will disappear, so make sure you have a backup.

2. Can I Factory Reset my iPhone without Losing the Data?

No. If you want a factory reset, all your data will be erased, so make a backup before proceeding.

But if you want your Apple iPhone 12 mini set to return to the default without losing your data, you can do a “Reset All Settings.” This will not touch your data but will return all the default settings.

3. What is the Difference Between a Soft Reset and a Hard Reset?

A soft reset is when you restart your device, and a hard reset is when you factory reset all the settings on your device and start fresh. A factory reset is a type of hard reset without losing the data.

4. How do I force my iPhone 6 to factory reset with buttons?

To force your Apple iPhone 12 mini to factory reset with buttons, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Press and hold the “ Sleep/Wake “ button and the “ Home “ button simultaneously for about 10 seconds.

Step 2: After 10 seconds have passed, release the “ Sleep/Wake “ button but keep holding the “ Home “ button.

Step 3: Keep holding the “ Home “ button until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen.

Step 4: Here, you will be in recovery mode, and now you can reset your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

Your device will now be reset, and you will have a phone like a new one.

5. How can I get into a locked iPhone?

If you have lost the passcode of your Apple iPhone 12 mini, then you can use the Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock tool to factory reset your device. To do this, you need to proceed with the steps given above. They are easy to follow and will help you reset your device without risk.

The Bottom Line

These are some of the most effective methods that can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes. You can use any of these methods to reset your device and get rid of the lock screen.

However, if you want to factory reset your Apple iPhone 12 mini because you have forgotten your passcode, we recommend using Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock app because it is the most effective and safe method.

This app can help you factory reset your locked iPhone without iTunes in just a few minutes, and it is very easy to use. So, if you want to reset your device without any data loss, we recommend using this app.

How to Access Your Apple iPhone 12 mini When You Forget the Passcode?

We all have secrets in our iPhone or some important financial or business data that we all wish to protect from unwanted access. For this, we set up a passcode. But what if Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode is forgotten by you? Well, you may now wonder how to perform Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode bypass, right? Worry no more! We’re right here to help you with the proven solutions for Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset without iTunes or with it too. Let’s explore.

Part 1. Unlock Apple iPhone 12 mini screen passcode in one click (unlock tool needed)

The first and the ultimate measure for Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode removal in just a matter of a single click is Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) . With the help of this mighty tool, performing Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset is even easier than any other alternative. Not only it can perform Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode bypass, you can also make use of this tool to bypass lock screen of an Android smartphone too. Isn’t it amazing? Moreover, this powerful tool works effortlessly with the latest iOS 13 version and even with the most recent iPhone models as well. Here is the step by step tutorial on Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode bypass.

Step 1: Install and launch Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Get the tool Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) downloaded and installed over your computer system. Then establish a connection between your computer and iPhone.

Now, launch the tool and then opt for the “Unlock” tile from the main screen.

Step 2: Boot in Recovery/DFU mode

Next move that you need to perform is to opt for the correct mode, i.e. “Unlock iOS Screen”. Then, you’ll be prompted to boot your device in Recovery/DFU mode. The on-screen instructions will guide you on how to do it.

Step 3: Double-Check iPhone information

On the upcoming screen, you’ll be displayed the “Device Model” and most recent “System Version” which is compatible with your Apple iPhone 12 mini. Simply, hit the “Start” button here.

Step 4: Perform Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode removal

Once, the software downloads the firmware automatically, you can then proceed to Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset. Hit the “Unlock Now” button over the next screen and in a short while you’ll be notified that Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode removal is completed.

safe & secure

Part 2. Restore an iTunes backup for Apple iPhone 12 mini

Here we’re going to be familiar with the Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset using the renowned iOS data management tool, iTunes. But be sure that iTunes version installed over your computer is up to date or else unknown errors may crop up in between. Eventually, your all-new Apple iPhone 12 mini may even get bricked. Think this is it? Well, here’s another problem with iTunes, you need to get your Apple iPhone 12 mini connected only to a pre-synced or pre-trusted computer. Or else, this tutorial won’t bring any good to you.

Step 1: First, get your Apple iPhone 12 mini connected to your PC. Then, launch the iTunes most recent version. It will automatically detect your Apple iPhone 12 mini. Once detected, tap the “Device” icon over the left top corner of iTunes.

Step 2: Then, hit the “Summary” option from the left panel and then you need to hit the “Restore iPhone” button. Confirm your actions by simply pushing the “Restore” button on the pop-up message and you’re done. Now, just wait for the process to complete.

Part 3. Restore Apple iPhone 12 mini in recovery mode to remove screen passcode

If somehow, the above solution fails and you’re just not able to get Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset. You need to boot your device into recovery mode and then perform the factory reset. This would certainly wipe off everything from your Apple iPhone 12 mini including the passcode as well. Here are the steps involved in booting your Apple iPhone 12 mini in recovery mode.

• First things first, power off your Apple iPhone 12 mini by pushing the “Side” button down along with either of the “Volume” button. Keep them pressed till you get to see “Power-off” slider over your screen. Now, simply drag it to power off your device.
• Next, connect your Apple iPhone 12 mini and your computer firmly with the help of an authentic cable. Please make sure to press and hold the “Side” button meanwhile.
• Ensure not to let go the Side button till the recovery mode screen appears over your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Once the Apple iPhone 12 mini device is booted in recovery mode, iTunes will throw a pop up message that “iTunes has detected an iPhone in recovery mode”. Simply, hit the “OK” button over the message and then push the “Restore iPhone” button followed by confirming your actions.

Part 4. Use “Find iPhone” from iCloud

The next pro tutorial for Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode removal is via iCloud. For this, grad access to any computer available on your side. Or, you can also make use of any other smartphone device but ensure it must be connected to a WiFi network or have an active data pack. Moreover, the locked iPhone on which you’re going to perform Apple iPhone 12 mini passcode reset should also have an active internet connection to make this tutorial work.

Note: Since we’re going to unlock your Apple iPhone 12 mini using Find My iPhone service of iCloud. It is important that “Find My iPhone” service was enabled beforehand over your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

Step 1: Launch the browser over any other smartphone device or computer. Then, visit the official web page iCloud.com.

Step 2: Now, make use of same Apple account configured with your Apple iPhone 12 mini to sign in to iCloud. Then, opt for the “Find My iPhone” icon over the launch pad.

Step 3: Next, tap on the “All Devices” drop-down menu available over the top midsection and then select the Apple iPhone 12 mini that you wish to bypass the passcode off.

Step 4: Then, you’ll get to witness a pop-up window over your screen. Tap the “Erase iPhone” button over it and then confirm your actions. All the settings and data will be wiped off remotely from your Apple iPhone 12 mini now.

Step 5: Lastly, wait for the process to complete and upon completion set up your device as usual.

Part 5. How about Apple iPhone 12 mini restrictions passcode?

Apple iPhone 12 mini restrictions is a vital setting that is used to lock down a set of functions of the iPhone. These iPhone restrictions are also known as Parental Controls. That implies one can make use of these settings to block or hide songs that have explicit lyrics/content or barring YouTube from running, etc.

It is vital to set up a 4 digit passcode if you want to use iPhone restriction settings. Now, if you somehow forgot the passcode that was set to make use of iPhone restrictions, you need to restore your Apple iPhone 12 mini with the help of iTunes to remove the previous passcode. But ensure not to restore an old backup of iPhone or else, the old passcode which you may not know will also get activated. Eventually, making your situation even worse.

Reset/Change Apple iPhone 12 mini restrictions passcode

Now, in case you know the Apple iPhone 12 mini restrictions passcode and just wish to reset it. Then follow the streak of steps mentioned below.

1. Launch “Settings” of your Apple iPhone 12 mini and then get into “General” followed by “Restrictions”. Now, you’ll be asked to key in the current passcode.

1. Once you’ve entered the current passcode, hit on the “Disable Restrictions” and to confirm your actions, key in your passcode when prompted.

1. Lastly, hit on “Enable Restrictions”. You’ll be asked to set up a new passcode now. Do it and you’re done.