Jailbreaking iOS 12.5.7 - I have been attempting to jailbreak an old iPad Air, in an attempt to get some use out of it. Are there any legitimate jailbreaks out there for this old of software?
As an iPhone specialist, I’ve worked with many older iPads and iPhones—especially those stuck on iOS 12.5.7. If you're using an iPad Air or iPad mini 2, you might wonder: Can I still jailbreak iOS 12.5.7? The answer is yes.
Despite its age, iOS 12.5.7 remains highly jailbreakable using tools like Checkra1n, Chimera, and unc0ver. In this guide, I’ll show you step by step how to jailbreak your device running iOS 12.5.7—and what you need to know before you begin.
Part 1. Everything about iOS 12.5.7 Jailbreak [Must-Know]
Jailbreaking is the procedure of removing the software limitations set by Apple on iOS devices.
By jailbreaking your iPhone or iPad, you can gain root access to the system, allowing you to install apps that are unreachable on the official App Store. Jailbreaking also enables you to customize your device’s appearance, functionality, and performance according to your preferences.
Does iOS 12.5.7 support jailbreak?
Yes, iOS 12.5.7 supports jailbreak. In fact, iOS 12.5.7 is one of the most jailbreak-friendly versions of iOS, as it can be jailbroken by several tools, such as Checkra1n, Chimera, and unc0ver.
Devices that can run iOS 12.5.7 and are compatible with jailbreak tools include:
Jailbreaking iOS 12/iOS 12.5.7 has both benefits and risks, and you should weigh them carefully before proceeding. Some of the benefits and risks are:
Benefits
Fully customize your device’s look and features.
Install apps and tweaks not available on the App Store.
Use any SIM card by unlocking carrier restrictions.
Block ads and bypass in-app purchases in some apps.
Improve performance by disabling background services.
Risks
Voids your Apple warranty and official support.
Increases risk of malware or data leaks.
Jailbreak failure can cause bugs or crashes.
Installing bad tweaks may brick your device.
Updates may remove your jailbreak or cause instability.
Part 2. How to Jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 and Bypass Activation Lock
When you jailbreak an iPhone or iPad on iOS 12.5.7, Activation Lock can still be a problem. Jailbreak cannot remove Activation Lock. If you forgot your Apple ID password or worry about being stuck on Activation Lock after jailbreaking, don’t worry. I recommend using Tenorshare 4uKey.
Tenorshare 4uKey is an easy-to-use tool that helps you jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 and bypass iCloud Activation Lock without needing a password. Once it’s done, your device will be both jailbroken and unlocked. It works with iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 to 16.7.8, including models like the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPad mini 2, and more.
Key Features of Tenorshare 4uKey
Simple to Use: Clear instructions and user-friendly interface.
Works Fast: High success rate for jailbreaking and unlocking.
Safe and Secure: No viruses or data leaks.
How to Jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 Device And Remove Activation Lock
Install 4uKey on the computer and choose "Remove iCloud Activation Lock" to jailbreak and bypass Activation Lock on iOS 12.5.7 device. Then connect your device to your computer.
Choose “Next” to jailbreak and remove iCloud Activation Lock. To prevent file system damage, your iPhone will first enter recovery mode first.
When done, your iPhone will begin the jailbreaking process. Please wait patiently.
When your iPhone/iPad is jailbroken successfully, 4uKey will automatically remove activation lock without Apple ID/password.
Soon you can see that your iPhone/iPad running iOS 12.5.7 is jailbroken and iCloud activation lock removed successfully.
Part 3. How to Jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 with Checkra1n
If your iPhone or iPad is not iCloud-locked, and you want to jailbreak it running iOS 12.5.7, one of the best tools you can use is Checkra1n. However, Checkra1n is only available for Mac users, and you need to have a Mac computer and a USB cable to jailbreak your device.
If you want to learn how to jailbreak iPad air 12.5.7, you need to follow these steps:
First install Checkra1n on your Mac from Checkra1n official website.
Make sure your macOS version and iPhone model are supported.
After downloading. Open the dmg file and extract the Checkra1n application to the folder. Now the tool is installed on your Mac.
Connect your iOS 12.5.7 device to your Mac using a USB cable. Make sure your connection is secure to avoid interruptions during the jailbreak process.
Open the Checkra1n from the application folder. The tool automatically detects connected iPhones. Click Start to start the iOS 12.5.7 jailbreak process.
Set the iPhone to DFU mode according to the screen instructions. This step is very important for jailbreaking iOS 12 - iOS 12.5.7.
When the iPhone is in DFU mode, Checkra1n goes jailbreak. Wait until the process is complete, then you can access Cydia from your iPhone home screen.
My Personal Take on Checkra1n Jailbreak
Checkra1n is a reliable tool for jailbreaking iOS 12.5.7, but it has limitations. It requires a Mac and USB connection, and being a semi-tethered jailbreak, you'll need to repeat the process after each reboot. While effective for advanced users, if you're seeking a simpler, permanent solution, Tenorshare 4uKey might be a better choice.
Part 4. iOS 12.5.7 Jailbreak with Computer Using Chimera
Another tool that you can use to jailbreak your device running iOS 12 or iOS 12.5.7 is Chimera. Chimera is available for both Windows and Mac users, and you can also install it directly on your device without a computer.
To jailbreak iPhone 5s/iPad mini 2 or more device running iOS 12.5.7, you can follow these steps:
Download Cydia Impactor to your computer and start it.
Connect your iPhone/iPad running iOS 12.5.7 to your computer by Lightning or USB-C cable (depending on the device).
Click the downloaded Chimera. IPA file and drag it to the Cydia Impactor window:
When prompted, enter a valid Apple ID:
When prompted, sign in with your Apple ID password:
Cydia Impactor will start sideloading the Chimera jailbreak app to your iOS device:
Once installed, go to Settings → General → Profile and Device Management and tap Apple ID:
Then tap the blue trust button and tap the red trust button in the pop-up that appears:
After following the above-recommended steps, tap the Chimera app on the home screen of the device:
Then tap the round jailbreak button in the Chimera app:
Once done, the Chimera jailbreak app will make sure you are jailbreaking:
Sileo must now be displayed on your home screen along with the Chimera jailbreak app:
That's all. You now have a jailbreak phone in Chimera's way.
My Personal Take on Checkra1n Jailbreak
Chimera is effective for jailbreaking iOS 12.5.7, but it’s semi-untethered, meaning you’ll need to re-jailbreak after every reboot. The process is straightforward but requires technical steps like sideloading with Cydia Impactor. While reliable, using Chimera involves some security risks.
After jailbreaking your device, it's essential to follow some expert tips for better performance and security. Here are a few key recommendations:
Stick to reliable sources like Cydia or Sileo to install apps and tweaks.
Regular backups with iTunes or iCloud protect your data in case of issues.
Use a security suite to protect your device from malware and hackers.
Install useful tweaks like Filza for file management and Activator for shortcuts.
Too many tweaks can slow down your device or cause crashes—be selective.
Jailbreaking can affect battery life, so disable unnecessary tweaks to save power.
Keep your jailbreak tools and tweaks updated to maintain stability and security.
Part 5. unc0ver Jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 No Computer
Q1: Can unc0ver jailbreak iOS 12.5.7?
Yes, unc0ver supports iOS 12.5.7 and can be used for jailbreaking without a computer. You can install the unc0ver jailbreak IPA via the zJailbreak online method, which offers benefits like no need for a PC, faster installation, and no expiration date on the jailbreak.
Q2: What is Jailbreaks.app?
Jailbreaks.app is a website offering tools and guides for jailbreaking iOS devices. It provides methods to install jailbreaks like Chimera, unc0ver, and others. For older iOS versions, the legacy page at https://jailbreaks.app/legacy.html offers tools such as Phoenix for iOS 9.3.5 and Socket for iOS 10.3.x.
Q3: Does Chimera work on iOS 12.5.7?
Yes, Chimera supports jailbreaking iOS 12.5.7, as long as you follow the correct steps for installation.
Q4: How do I update iOS from 12.5.7 to 15?
To update from iOS 12.5.7 to iOS 15, you can check for updates in your device’s Settings under "General" and "Software Update." If the update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
Q5: Can I jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 without a computer?
Yes, some tools, like unc0ver, allow you to jailbreak iOS 12.5.7 directly from the device, without the need for a computer.
Conclusion
To jailbreak iPhone/iPad running iOS 12.5.7, you can use tools like Checkra1n, Chimera, and unc0ver, etc. If you are looking for a tool to help you jailbreak and remove activation lock without password easily and safely, we recommend you try Tenorshare 4uKey.
Downloads:
Tenorshare 4uKey - Best iPhone Unlocker
Rated on Trustpilot >
Unlock iPhone/iPad without passcode or Apple ID, remove iCloud Activation lock, and bypass MDM.
Remove Screen Time passcode and view stored passwords like Apple ID and WiFi.
By Jenefey Aaron
2025-04-22 / Unlock iPhone
Rate now!