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ITAD Glossary

What are Activation Lock, FRP and MDM locks?

Activation Lock on Apple devices and Factory Reset Protection (FRP) on Android devices tie a phone or tablet to its owner’s account, so it cannot be reactivated after a reset without that account’s credentials. Mobile device management (MDM) enrollment applies a similar control at the company level. Locks left on at retirement make devices unusable for resale.

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Activation lock, FRP and MDM locks

Why it matters for IT and security teams

A locked device cannot be legally reused, so it becomes scrap. One locked device can also hold up a whole shipment until someone with the credentials releases it.

Activation lock, FRP and MDM locks

How it works

  • Apple: Activation Lock turns on with Find My. Sign out of the Apple Account or turn off Find My before return.
  • Android: FRP turns on when a Google account is added. Remove the account before return.
  • Corporate devices: release them from MDM and from Apple Business Manager or Android Enterprise where used.

Activation lock, FRP and MDM locks

How HOBI handles it

When a device arrives locked, HOBI sends the client the device’s IMEI so the client can have the lock removed.

Questions

Frequently asked questions

An Apple feature, introduced with iOS 7, that ties a device to the owner’s Apple Account when Find My is on.

A Google feature, introduced with Android 5.1, that requires the original account after a reset.

Not without the owner’s credentials or release. Remove them before devices are returned.

Keep learning

Related terms and services

Need help retiring IT equipment?

Talk to HOBI about secure data destruction, value recovery and certified recycling, or call 877-814-2620.

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