Note: iOS 9.3.5 is the final supported version for the iPad Mini 1 (2012). This article is for educational and legacy device repurposing purposes only. Let’s face it: you have an old iPad Mini 1 sitting in a drawer. It runs the ancient iOS 9.3.5. Perhaps you bought it second-hand, only to discover it is locked by the previous owner’s iCloud Activation Lock. Or maybe you forgot your own credentials.
You aren't going to run Call of Duty or edit 4K video. But for a device, bypassing the iCloud lock on your iPad Mini 1 is the most satisfying recycling project you can do this weekend.
You have two choices: turn it into a paperweight, or to turn it into a dedicated lifestyle and entertainment device .
Use these methods only on devices you legally own. Bypassing iCloud on a stolen device is illegal. This article is for legacy device preservation.