How do I fix 'Verification failed' and 'There was an error connecting to the Apple ID server' on iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.6?

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How do I fix 'Verification failed' and 'There was an error connecting to the Apple ID server' on iPhone 4s running iOS 9.3.6?

I can't sign into icloud on my iphone 4s on the latest version of ios for it (ios 9.3.6), when I try to log in either to icloud or app store or anything else apple related I get an error message that says "Verification failed" "There was an error connecting to the Apple ID server" with an option to cancel and an option to try again

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Cannot sign in

iPhone 4s, iOS 6

Posted on Nov 29, 2025 1:42 PM

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Answer 1

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zinacef

Level 10

88,720 points

Dec 4, 2025 3:52 PM in response to 13saif59

The "Verification Failed" error on iOS 9.3.6 typically occurs because the outdated operating system cannot display the modern Two-Factor Authentication pop-up window, causing the server to reject your password even if it is correct.

To bypass this, you must use the "Password + Code" trick: first, obtain a six-digit verification code from a newer Apple device (Settings > Apple ID > Password & Security > Get Verification Code) or via SMS, and then type your password immediately followed by that code into the password field on the iPhone 4s (e.g., if your password is "Apple" and the code is "123456", type "Apple123456").

If this does not work, the connection may be failing due to SSL errors, so ensure your Date & Time settings are perfectly accurate (set them manually if needed) and try resetting your Network Settings to clear any connectivity glitches.

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