Apple's iOS 26 brings stronger security, making it harder to bypass iCloud Activation Lock. If you’ve bought a second-hand iPhone or iPad still linked to the previous owner’s Apple ID—or forgotten your own credentials—unlocking becomes essential.
This guide covers the best ways to bypass iOS 26 Activation Lock, including official methods and trusted tools like iRemove Tools, Checkm8, and PassFab iPhone Unlocker for older devices. Whether you're a beginner or tech-savvy, you'll find practical steps to regain access to your device safely.
Part 1: Bypass iOS 26 with Apple ID via iCloud
Part 2: Bypass iOS 26 without Apple ID Using Screen Passcode
Part 3: Bypass iOS 26 without Apple ID via iCloud Activation Lock Removal Tools
Part 4: Can iCloud Bypass iOS 26 Activation Lock?
Bonus: Easily Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iOS 12.0 - 16.7
Part 1: Bypass iOS 26 with Apple ID via iCloud
iOS 26 iCloud bypass using Apple ID credentials is the most straightforward and secure method. If you or the previous owner can access the Apple ID associated with the locked device, Apple’s official iCloud website offers a seamless method to bypass Activation Lock iOS 26 without requiring additional tools or software. This is Apple’s own supported solution, and it guarantees that your device remains eligible for all future updates and services.
Steps for iCloud Activation Lock Removal iOS 26:
Open a browser and navigate to https://www.icloud.com.
Sign in using the Apple ID linked to the iOS 26 device.
Click Find iPhone, then select All Devices from the top menu.
Choose the locked iPhone or iPad from the list.
Select Erase iPhone to wipe all content and settings remotely.
Once the device is erased, click Remove from Account to disconnect it from iCloud.
After you complete these steps, the device will reboot and allow a fresh setup process as though it's brand new, free of any iCloud activation restrictions.
Pros:
- Completely safe and approved by Apple
- No need to install or trust third-party software
- Ensures device remains under warranty and eligible for support
Cons:
- Requires access to original Apple ID and password
- Not applicable if the Apple ID credentials are lost or inaccessible
- Limited to users who can contact the previous owner
Part 2: Bypass iOS 26 without Apple ID Using Screen Passcode
In cases where the Apple ID is not available but the device can still be unlocked using a screen passcode, there is a possibility to make iOS 26 iCloud Activation lock removal manually. This is typically only feasible under specific conditions—the 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) has been enabled previously. This method does not always work, but it can be worth a try before moving on to more advanced solutions.
Steps to Sign Out of iCloud iOS 26:
On the iOS 26 Activation Lock Login page, tap Unlock with Passcode > Use Device Passcode.
Then enter your device passcode for iOS 26 bypass.
Pros:
- Fast and simple
- No additional software or downloads
- Doesn’t require Apple ID if the device trusts the current passcode
Cons:
- Highly situational
Part 3: Bypass iOS 26 without Apple ID via iCloud Activation Lock Removal Tools
When all official methods fail or are unavailable for iCloud bypass iOS 26, your next best option is to use professional iCloud Activation Lock removal tools. These third-party software solutions are especially helpful for users who purchase second-hand devices that remain locked to the previous owner’s Apple ID.
Let’s examine two of the most reputable and widely used tools for iCloud bypass on iOS 26: iRemove Tools and Checkm8.
1. iRemove Tools
iRemove Tools is a well-known iCloud bypass utility compatible with a broad range of iPhones and iPads. Designed for both technical and non-technical users, it offers an intuitive interface and step-by-step guidance. The software works by jailbreaking the device and removing the iCloud lock permanently.
Key Features:
- Compatible with iPhones and iPads featuring A9 to A11 chips
- Available on both Windows and macOS platforms
- Offers a guided, user-friendly interface
- Frequently updated to support the latest iOS versions
- Performs full iCloud lock removal, not just a temporary bypass
Price:
- Plans start at $29.99, but costs may vary depending on the model and service level required
Pros:
- Lifetime access with one-time payment
- Reliable success rate and active development team
- Offers customer support and software documentation
- Supports SIM unlocking and GSM features for eligible devices
Cons:
- Doesn’t support A12 chipsets and above
- Requires jailbreak, which may affect device warranty
- Not suitable for users without basic computer skills
2.Checkm8
Checkm8 is a powerful iCloud Activation Lock bypass tool that leverages the Checkm8 exploit—one of the most effective vulnerabilities discovered for Apple devices. It supports older devices from iPhone 5s to iPhone X and allows users to regain full access without the original Apple ID.
Key Features:
- Utilizes hardware-based Checkm8 exploit for stable results
- Compatible with iOS 12 to iOS 26
- Focused support for iPhones with A7 to A11 chips
- Includes Mobile Device Management (MDM) bypass and SIM unlock features
- Offers a semi-tethered solution for added flexibility
Price:
- Starts from $34.99 for a one-time license
Pros:
- High success rate on supported devices
- Frequent updates to patch bugs and improve compatibility
- Offers extended features beyond iCloud bypass
- Secure solution backed by a trusted team
Cons:
- Only runs on macOS (no Windows version available)
- Jailbreak required, which can be intimidating for casual users
- Not effective on the latest chipsets and devices
Part 4: Can iCloud Bypass iOS 26 Activation Lock?
The question most users ask is: “Can iCloud really be bypassed on iOS 26?” The answer is yes—but it depends on a variety of factors, such as your device model, current iOS version, and whether or not the latest security patches have been applied. Apple continues to strengthen its iCloud security with each new update, which means not all devices will be equally easy to unlock.
What to Consider:
- Apple devices with A12 or newer chips are harder to jailbreak
- Most bypass tools require full access to a computer and USB connection
- Some bypasses are tethered or semi-tethered, requiring reactivation after reboot
- Avoid free tools claiming to bypass iCloud; these are often scams
- Always check device compatibility before purchasing any software
While bypassing iCloud isn’t officially supported by Apple, many users rely on it as a last resort, especially when customer service refuses to unlock devices without valid proof of purchase.
Bonus: Easily Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iOS 12.0 - 16.7
If your device runs an earlier iOS version such as iOS 12.0 to 16.7, you're in luck. These versions are significantly easier to bypass thanks to well-established tools like PassFab iPhone Unlocker. This software is designed with beginners in mind and requires minimal input from the user.
Why Choose PassFab iPhone Unlocker:
- Removes iCloud Activation Lock without requiring Apple ID
- Unlocks disabled devices and removes screen passcodes, Face ID, and Touch ID without passcode
- Works with both macOS and Windows
- Includes customer support and frequent updates
Firstly, download PassFab iPhone Unlock. When you have installed the software, open it on your computer.
Connect your locked iPhone to your computer using a USB cable. Select bypassing the iCloud Activation Lock from the main menu.
To start the unlocking, click “Next”. The software will walk you through this setup, but you’ll need to enter Recovery Mode.
Unlocking requires a jailbreak. Instructions on how to complete this step are easy to follow. After jailbreaking, PassFab will do the bypass. You can have full access to your device in minutes.
Pros:
- Excellent compatibility across devices and iOS versions
- No technical knowledge required
- User-friendly interface with guided steps
- Offers additional unlocking features for screen and Apple ID
Cons:
- Doesn’t support iOS 17 and later
- Paid software with limited free functionality
- Requires jailbreak to proceed
Conclusion
With this guide, bypassing iOS 26 iCloud Activation Lock becomes not just an idea, but a practical reality for users willing to take the necessary steps.
For older devices and legacy iOS versions, PassFab iPhone Unlocker remains one of the most accessible and effective solutions on the market. Whichever method you choose, ensure that you follow each step carefully, check for software compatibility, and understand the limitations of bypassing your device.
PassFab iPhone Unlock
- Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
- Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
- Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
- Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
- Supports Windows and MacOS
PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.
