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.

How to reset a device that was activated with an old Apple ID

I have an iPod Touch 6th generation that I originally gave my mom. She gave it back to me recently because she never used it. I was able to reset it to factory and update software to 12.5.5, but I can't activate it. It was activated with an old Apple ID of mine (Gmail email address) that I don't use any longer and is no longer a valid Apple ID because I changed it to an iCloud.com email address.

Posted on Jun 19, 2022 11:41 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 19, 2022 1:11 PM

You need the Apple ID and password that was used when the device was first set up. If you don’t know that, you can’t remove the Activation Lock.


If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork to include the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. 


Request additional support for unlocking your device.    -


You used to be able to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened) and have them remove the ID. This may have changed, so call the store before going to make sure they can help.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.   -



Similar questions

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 19, 2022 1:11 PM in response to callaway

You need the Apple ID and password that was used when the device was first set up. If you don’t know that, you can’t remove the Activation Lock.


If you are the original owner, contact Apple. Apple can remove the ID  if provided the required paperwork to include the original purchase receipt with the serial number on it. 


Request additional support for unlocking your device.    -


You used to be able to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and a photo ID to the nearest Apple Store (if it has reopened) and have them remove the ID. This may have changed, so call the store before going to make sure they can help.


Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple.   -



How to reset a device that was activated with an old Apple ID

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