4 Digit Passcode (UPDATE)

Just wanted to post a quick update to my previous "my dad died and even though no one is going to believe it, I am trying to gain access to his phone via the 4 digit passcode" thread =).

After brute forcing for almost a year (basically going the slow route) the phone suffered an unrecoverable boot loop. After trying a few ideas (I've been jailbreaking since 1.13, so I'm not a total noob), it became clear it was never going to become accessible again without restoring it first. So unfortunately the pictures and everything else are gone.

Here's where the thread becomes relevant for everyone else in this position though:

I took the phone, my dad's death certificate, my birth certificate, and the receipt into my local Apple store. Within 15 minutes they were able to remove the iCloud lock. They said the receipt was unnecessary as long as they were able to match the owner to the death cert. It was easier than I would have ever expected based on how many times you see threads about it.

So if you are reading this thread because you are a legitimate person in a similar spot, all you need to do is prove the situation and Apple will help in every way they can. Unfortunately they can't break the passcode, but at least I now have a working, unlocked, iPhone 6.

Interestingly enough, there are a number of different hardware devices on eBay that CAN crack 4 digit passcodes on iPhones, but only 8.1 and earlier. If you are on 8.1 or earlier, they may be worth a shot. Dad was not.

Sadly I'd rather have the pictures and a bricked phone, but having a working phone is better than nothing. Apple was a PIECE OF CAKE to deal with since I had the proper documentation. If you do, and just want iCloud removed so you can use/sell the phone, there is ZERO reason to not just go to Apple.