Failing to activate an iPad I reset
I'm failing to activate my iPad after resetting it. It is asking for the credentials of the owner before me despite me having used it for close to a year before resetting it
iPad (6th generation)
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Presumably you are being prompted for your AppleID credentials - so as to satisfy the Activation Lock. You will require the AppleID and associated password that was last used to successfully activate the device - which, for the bona-fide owner, should be straightforward. Given your description, while you have been using the iPad for a significant period of time, the Activation Lock wasn’t properly disabled prior to your acquisition.
Only the previous owner will be able to resolve your problem. If you are able to contact the previous owner, he/she will require this information:
What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
Otherwise, here are the Apple support pages that outline the Activation Lock - and the only mechanisms by which it can be satisfied by the owner of the AppleID to which the Lock relates:
Activation Lock for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Turn off Activation Lock – Apple Support
As you will discover, unless you are the owner of the AppleID that was last used to activate the device, you’ll not be able to defeat or bypass the Activation Lock. With documentary evidence that you are the original owner (such as sales receipt showing the serial number), Apple may be prepared to assist - otherwise they and nobody here will be able to help you.
If you have the necessary documentation, Apple have introduced a portal though which you may be able to request release of an Activation Lock:
How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support & start an Activation Lock support request.
However, recovery of the AppleID credentials by the owner should be possible…
If the AppleID or associated password have been forgotten, they can be recovered here:
To recover the credentials, the owner will need access to any one of the following:
- The primary email address mailbox that corresponds with your AppleID
- Any of the secondary/recovery email addresses that should be configured for the AppleID account
- Any of the trusted telephone numbers (fixed line or Cellular/Mobile) that are associated with the AppleID
More information about recovery of the AppleID and associated Password:
If you forgot your Apple ID - Apple Support
If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support