Getting locked out of a second-hand iPhone—or your own—can be overwhelming. The “iPhone Locked to Owner” screen, part of Apple’s Activation Lock, is effective against theft but often leaves genuine users stranded when Apple ID details are forgotten or a device is still linked to another account.
On iOS 26, bypassing this lock is a common challenge. In this guide, we’ll explore 5 proven methods, combining expert reviews and user experiences. While Apple’s official options are limited, professional third-party tools like PassFab iPhone Unlock offer faster and more flexible solutions. At the end of the article, we’ve included a decision comparison table to help you quickly choose the safest and most convenient option for your situation.
Part 1: Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner on iOS 26 with PassFab iPhone Unlock Hot
Part 2: Remove iPhone Locked to Owner via Previous Owner’s Apple ID
Part 3: Contact Apple Support to Unlock iPhone Locked to Owner
Part 4: Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner Using MDM / Intune
Part 5: Temporary iPhone Locked to Owner Bypass via DNS
Part 1: Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner on iOS 26 with PassFab iPhone Unlock
Bypassing an iPhone Locked to Owner on iOS 26 is possible, but it requires the right steps to keep your device secure and avoid data loss. Fortunately, tools like PassFab iPhone Unlock offer a dependable solution to bypass an iPhone Locked to Owner. This all-in-one iPhone Unlocker can remove Apple ID, Activation Lock, and screen passcodes without needing passwords. The process is straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it a reliable choice even for users with little technical knowledge.
Key Features
- Remove Activation Lock: Allows you to bypass Activation Lock without the original Apple ID or password.
- Multiple Lock Types: Supports different types of locks such as screen passcodes, Screen Time, and MDM.
- High Success Rate: PassFab iPhone Unlock boasts a success rate of up to 99%, ensuring that most users can bypass Activation Lock with ease.
- Intuitive Interface: Designed with a clean and user-friendly interface, making it easy for anyone to use, even without technical expertise.
- Compatibility: It supports all iOS versions and iPhone models, including the latest iPhone 16 and iOS 26.
How to Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner Via PassFab iPhone Unlock?
Before You Start (Requirements):
- A Windows or Mac computer with PassFab iPhone Unlocker installed.
- A USB cable to connect your iPhone.
- Stable internet connection to download the latest iOS firmware package.
Begin by downloading and installing PassFab iPhone Unlock on your PC. Launch it and select the “Remove iCloud Activation Lock” option from the main interface.
Connect your locked iOS device to a PC using a USB cable. Once connected, the program will automatically recognize your device. Click “Next” to start the unlocking process.
For a smooth operation, put your iPhone into “Recovery Mode.” Users can follow the on-screen instructions to complete the task effortlessly.
PassFab iPhone Unlock will begin the jailbreaking process. Once complete, click on the “Next” button to remove the Activation Lock. Finally, the program will remove the Activation Lock from your iOS device.
Video Tutorial
Still having trouble with your iPhone device? Watch our video tutorial to unlock the device effortlessly:
Part 2: Remove iPhone Locked to Owner via Previous Owner’s Apple ID
We've explained that one possible way to bypass iPhone Locked to Owner is through PassFab iPhone Unlock. If you are wondering how to unlock your device in the simplest way without relying on software, contacting the previous owner is often the most direct solution.
Basically, when you reach out and obtain the Apple ID and password from the original owner, you can remove the Activation Lock and fully access your iPhone again. Here’s how this method works.
This only works if the previous owner agrees to provide their Apple ID.
Follow these steps to unlock iPhone Locked to Owner by contacting the previous owner:
- In the activation screen, enter the previous owner's Apple ID and Password.
- Tap the “Next” button available on the top right corner to unlock the device.
- Navigate to “Settings” and tap on Apple ID at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down and tap the “Sign Out” option.
Tips:
If the previous owner can’t share their Apple ID, ask them to log in to iCloud.com. From Find My iPhone > All Devices, they can select your iPhone and choose “Remove from Account.” This clears the Activation Lock. If that’s not possible, you can try a tool like PassFab iPhone Unlock to regain access.
Part 3: Contact Apple Support to Unlock iPhone Locked to Owner
How to remove Apple Activation Lock without the old owner? If you are unable to contact your previous owner, your next best option is to contact Apple Support for help. Apple has the authority to remove Activation Lock if you can provide valid proof of purchase.
Follow these steps to unlock your iPhone via Apple Support:
- Go to Apple Support.
- Choose iPhone > Activation Lock as the issue.
- Select your preferred contact method and explain your issue.
- Upload the valid proof of your purchase.
- Apple will review your case, and once verified, Apple will remove the Activation Lock from your device.
Tips:
Before contacting Apple Support, make sure to have all the required documents, such as the purchase receipt, ID, and device details.
Part 4: Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner Using MDM / Intune
MDM/Intune is a mobile application designed for organizations that use Microsoft Intune to manage their devices. These locks are commonly applied to company-issued devices, school iPads, and more. If you’ve purchased a second-hand iPhone that’s still enrolled in MDM or Intune, you can follow the instructions below to unlock it.
Follow these steps to bypass iPhone Locked to Owner via MDM/Intune:
- Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone and tap on “General.”
- Navigate down and select the “Profiles & Device Management.”
- Enter the passcode to start deleting the Company Portal profile on your iPhone.
Tips:
This method only works if you have permission to remove the MDM/Intune profile. If the profile is supervised by an organization, you may need assistance from your IT administrator to complete the removal.
Part 5: Temporary iPhone Locked to Owner Bypass via DNS
How to unlock a phone that is Locked to Owner? If you don’t have access to the previous owner’s Apple ID or proof of purchase, you can try a DNS bypass. This method tricks your iPhone into thinking that it has been unlocked by using WiFi DNS settings. However, this method doesn’t permanently remove the Activation Lock.
Follow the instructions below to unlock the device using DNS Settings:
- Restart your iPhone to begin the setup process. When you reach the Wi-Fi settings screen, tap the small “i” icon next to your Wi-Fi network.
- Choose the “Configure DNS” option and tap on “Manual.”
- Enter one of the following DNS values, such as “104.154.51.7.”
- Tap Next and Back buttons repeatedly until your device connects to an iCloud DNS bypass server so your iPhone can be unlocked.
Video Tutorial
For non-technical users, these steps may feel overwhelming. However, with the help of a detailed video tutorial, you can easily follow along and unlock your device:
Tips:
This method doesn’t remove Activation Lock from your device. It is recommended to choose PassFab iPhone Unlock to free your device from an iPhone locked to the owner's screen.
iPhone Locked to Owner Unlock Decision Table (iOS 26)
| Method | Ease | Speed | Success Rate | Data Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PassFab iPhone Unlock | ✅ Easy | ⚡⚡⚡ Fast | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Very High | ⚠️ Medium (backup) | Personal users / Quick & reliable unlock |
| Previous Owner Apple ID | ✅ Easy | ⚡⚡ Medium | ⭐️⭐️ High | ⬇️ Low | If you can contact previous owner |
| Apple Support Help | ✅ Easy | ⏳ Slow | ⭐️⭐️ Medium | ⬇️ Low | No Apple ID / official verification required |
| MDM / Intune Removal | △ Medium | ⚡⚡ Medium | ⭐️ Medium | ⬇️ Low | Company / school devices with permission |
| DNS Bypass (Temporary) | △ Medium | ⚡ Medium | ❌ Low | ⚠️ High | Temporary access; non-permanent solution |
Conclusions
In this guide, we have reviewed the top 5 methods of how to bypass iPhone Locked to Owner on iOS 26. While this feature is designed to protect your device from unauthorized access, it can sometimes turn into a headache. To unlock a phone that is Locked to Owner, we recommend choosing PassFab iPhone Unlock . This program helps you bypass Activation Lock without a password.
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.
FAQs Related to Bypass iPhone Locked to Owner on iOS 26
How to Reset iPhone Says iPhone Locked to Owner?
When your iPhone is on Activation Lock, a standard reset alone won’t remove the Activation Lock. You will need to follow additional steps to properly unlock the device.Above, we have discussed the top methods that you can use to reset your iPhone.
How to Remove Activation Lock Without the Previous Owner?
PassFab iPhone Unlock is one of the best tools available online that allows users to remove Activation Lock without the previous owner.
Can Apple Support Remove Activation Lock?
Yes, Apple can remove the lock if you provide valid proof of purchase.
