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Aktivierungssperre
In brief
Activation Lock is an anti-theft feature from Apple that ties an iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple Watch to the owner’s Apple ID. If Find My is enabled, the device can only be set up again after a reset with the credentials of this Apple ID. For companies this means: without removing the lock, a retired device is practically worthless to buyers.
How Activation Lock arises and is removed
The lock becomes active automatically when Find My is switched on with an Apple ID on a device. Even a factory reset does not remove it. For company devices there are several ways to remove it:
| Situation | Solution |
|---|---|
| Apple ID and password known | Switch off Find My on the device or remove the device from the account |
| Device managed in Apple Business Manager and MDM | Use the bypass code via the MDM and release the device from Apple Business Manager |
| Credentials unknown, e.g. after an employee has left | Request to Apple with proof of purchase |
On Android, the comparable feature is called Factory Reset Protection. More on this in the entry Factory Reset Protection (FRP), for management via Apple in the entry Apple Business Manager.
Check before retirement
The easiest way is to remove the lock when employees leave, while the credentials are still known. A step-by-step guide for smartphones is provided by our guide retiring company phones, for iPads the guide Selling tablets. Second IT erases mobile devices with Blancco and issues a digitally signed erasure certificate for every device.
Frequently asked questions about Activation Lock
Does a reset remove Activation Lock?
No. The lock is tied to the Apple ID and remains after a reset. It must be removed via the account, the MDM or Apple.
How do I remove Activation Lock on a company iPad?
If the device is managed via MDM, via the bypass code in the MDM. Otherwise with the user’s Apple ID or via a request to Apple with proof of purchase.
Can I still sell locked devices?
With an active lock, devices can hardly be reused. The achievable value drops significantly; often only parts harvesting or recycling remains.
What is Activation Lock called on Android?
The comparable feature is called Factory Reset Protection, FRP for short. It also remains active after a reset if the device is still linked to an account. Therefore remove the account from the device before retirement.
How do I remove Activation Lock if the Apple ID is unknown?
Then a request to Apple with proof of purchase remains. For devices in Apple Business Manager with MDM, it is easier via the bypass code in the MDM. It is best to remove the lock when employees leave, while the credentials are known.
Retire iPhones and iPads – erased with a certificate for each device.
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