iPhone 5 or earlier iPhone 4 - Is there way I can use this cute phone again?

[jenifer north]

I deleted an old Apple ID, not realising it was also used on a phone which I rarely used. It is gone forever. I would like to start using this iPhone 4 again but cannot log in, the ID being defunct. Nor can I return it to factory settings without the log in details.
I have been told I can download a lite Open Source operating system. Really? If so - HOW.

Thanks.

 

[iStorm]

Put it in DFU mode and restore iOS using a computer. If it's activation locked with your old Apple ID, you'll have to take your receipt to Apple showing proof of purchase/ownership (containing the serial number) and they should be able to remove it. If you don't have a receipt, then you're pretty much out of luck.

Also, not sure if you meant using it as an actual phone. If you did, it won't work because 3G service no longer exists and it doesn't support 4G or 5G.

 

[DeftwillP]

You could shim a coffee table leg with it. The 3GS was terrible for that because of the rounded back.

 

[Helmsley]

it won't work because 3G service no longer exists

3G hasn't been switched off everywhere just yet.

 

[jenifer north]

Put it in DFU mode and restore iOS using a computer. If it's activation locked with your old Apple ID, you'll have to take your receipt to Apple showing proof of purchase/ownership (containing the serial number) and they should be able to remove it. If you don't have a receipt, then you're pretty much out of luck.

Also, not sure if you meant using it as an actual phone. If you did, it won't work because 3G service no longer exists and it doesn't support 4G or 5G.

Sorry to be so dim but ---- what is DFU mode? I live Italy and the Apple guy is a reseller, unhelpful, and I think I know more than him! I use the phone for listening to audio books and can use some apps. Its has a UK number and it does work, but I use it mainly for passwords etc. I wanted to get rid of Apple return it to factory settings or download an alternative OS. I must admit that I am not into the "phone culture" as I am hearing impaired.

 

[jenifer north]

3G hasn't been switched off everywhere just yet.

I suspect it is still used in Italy. I alway use it for password codes etc.

 

[eyoungren]

Sorry to be so dim but ---- what is DFU mode? I live Italy and the Apple guy is a reseller, unhelpful, and I think I know more than him! I use the phone for listening to audio books and can use some apps. Its has a UK number and it does work, but I use it mainly for passwords etc. I wanted to get rid of Apple return it to factory settings or download an alternative OS. I must admit that I am not into the "phone culture" as I am hearing impaired.

DFU stands for Direct Firmware Upgrade. It provides your computer a direct connection to the device firmware (to upgrade it) no matter what state the device is in.

DFU Mode - The iPhone Wiki

www.theiphonewiki.com

But the advice about activation lock is solid. Activation lock came with iOS 7 and the last update that the iPhone 4 can run is iOS 7. So, if activation locked and you aren't the original owner with receipt you will have a problem.

 

[jenifer north]

I will carry on with the books only, but thank you all for your advice.