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iPad in recovery mode and I c lick restore but nothing happens iPad bought from thrift store

I got an iPad from a thrift store and it was locked with a passcode. well I locked it up and it says iPad unavailable no I put out in recovery mode and connected to my MacBook Pro. it says there's an issue with iPad to update or restore. when I click either one nothing happens

Posted on Apr 23, 2024 1:07 PM

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2 replies

Apr 23, 2024 2:31 PM in response to kaytee196

If the iPad disabled or Activation Locked, unless you can independently obtain assistance from the previous owner, the iPad is (and will remain) useless to you. If you are able to contact the original owner, they will require this information:

What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


Here are the Apple support pages that outline the Activation Lock - and the only mechanisms by which it can be satisfied:

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 the original sales receipt showing the serial number), Apple may be prepared to assist - otherwise they and nobody here will be able to help you.


The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community



Here is what Apple suggests when purchasing a previously used device:


Check for Activation Lock before you buy a device from someone else


Before you buy an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, from someone other than Apple or an authorized Apple reseller, make sure that the device is erased and no longer linked to the previous owner’s account. Follow these steps to check if the device is ready to use: 

  1. Turn on and unlock the device. 
  2. If the passcode lock screen or the Home screen appears, the device hasn't been erased. Ask the seller to completely erase the device by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it's been erased.
  3. Begin the device setup process.
  4. If you're asked for the previous owner’s Apple ID and password, the device is still linked to their account. Hand the device back to the seller and ask them to enter their password. If the previous owner isn't present, contact them as soon as possible and ask them to use a browser to remove the device from their account. Don't take ownership of any used iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch until it has been removed from the previous owner’s account.

You will know that a device is ready for you to use when you're asked to "Set up your iPhone," “Set up your iPad," or “Set up your iPod” the first time you turn it on.

Apr 23, 2024 1:15 PM in response to kaytee196

Perhaps this will help the immediate issue you raised.

If you see a iPhone, iPad, or Apple Vision Pro unavailable message or Security Lockout screen - Apple Support


But then you are very likely to encounter Activation Lock which could only be remedied with the original owner’s assistance.

How to remove Activation Lock - Apple Support


You very likely have a useless iPad. Recycle it if so.

iPad in recovery mode and I c lick restore but nothing happens iPad bought from thrift store

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