Most of these tools simply do the DNS method above and repackage it. Others are malware designed to infect your Windows PC. For an iPad mini 1, which is worth roughly $20-$40 on eBay, paying for software is never worth it. If you need a functional email/FaceTime machine: Use the DNS bypass (Method 1). It is safe, free, and takes 2 minutes. You will have a functional web browser and clock.
Try Sliver + LeetDown (Method 2). Expect to spend an afternoon troubleshooting USB drivers and kernel panics. It is a fun geek project, but not reliable for daily use. bypass icloud ipad mini 1 ios 93 5
For users who own this device, the dreaded "Activation Lock" screen (asking for the Apple ID and password of the previous owner) is a common roadblock. Because iOS 9.3.5 is ancient by modern standards, conventional unlocking methods (like Apple’s official removal or modern software tools) often fail. Most of these tools simply do the DNS