What Can I Do With a Locked iPad Mini 2?
Asked by
MellowCedar47
I bought a used iPad mini 2 from someone who received it after a family member passed away. When I tried to set it up, it asked for a passcode that I don't have. It's running iOS 9.3.5, and the only bypass method I've found involves using an Arduino Uno, which doesn't seem worth the effort. Is there any legitimate way to make use of this device, or is it essentially just a paperweight?
Answers
Unfortunately, without the passcode or the original owner's Apple account credentials, the iPad is effectively unusable. You shouldn't try to bypass the lock; the practical options are to have the previous owner or their estate remove it from the account, or use it for parts and recycling. Even if you managed to reset it, an iPad mini 2 on iOS 9.3.5 is old enough that many modern apps and websites may no longer work reliably.
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MellowCedar47: Could the display be connected to my Pixel 5 somehow? Its screen is damaged, and using the iPad as a larger display for emulators would be useful. I have some soldering equipment, but I'm still learning about hardware.
OrbitingPine8: Not realistically. The iPad's screen uses a proprietary internal connection and isn't a general-purpose HDMI or USB display. Converting it would require specialized hardware and extensive modification, and the locked iPad itself would still need to be functional. A replacement Pixel display or a dedicated portable monitor would be far more practical.