You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Changing apple id on device

I already know you cannot merge Apple ID's. I made a mistake and registered a newly purchased iMac on a different ID than all my other products. Is there a way to change the ID or do I need to essentially wipe the new iMac and start over with another ID?

iMac Line (2012 and Later)

Posted on Mar 4, 2021 8:26 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 4, 2021 11:46 AM

When changing to the new ID, there may be some data loss, but you can minimize it. If syncing photos with iCloud, ensure Optimization is turned off in Settings/Your Name/iCloud/Photos and/or in Photos/Preferences/iCloud. Then make sure full resolution photos are on the device/computer. When signing out of iCloud, if asked whether you want to retain data, choose yes. Messages conversations will be lost if they are addressed to the ID. See the article below for other places that the old ID should be removed. See Winston Churchill's response in the below discussion. If possible, also set up Family Sharing  between the IDs to keep access to your apps/purchases. 


How to transfer all files from one iCloud account to another.       


What to do after you change your Apple ID or password - Apple Support.      


Family Sharing.         


Family Sharing - Set up.        

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 4, 2021 11:46 AM in response to Paul Tabone1

When changing to the new ID, there may be some data loss, but you can minimize it. If syncing photos with iCloud, ensure Optimization is turned off in Settings/Your Name/iCloud/Photos and/or in Photos/Preferences/iCloud. Then make sure full resolution photos are on the device/computer. When signing out of iCloud, if asked whether you want to retain data, choose yes. Messages conversations will be lost if they are addressed to the ID. See the article below for other places that the old ID should be removed. See Winston Churchill's response in the below discussion. If possible, also set up Family Sharing  between the IDs to keep access to your apps/purchases. 


How to transfer all files from one iCloud account to another.       


What to do after you change your Apple ID or password - Apple Support.      


Family Sharing.         


Family Sharing - Set up.        

Changing apple id on device

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.