Unpair AirTag from previous owner Apple ID

I bought from legal on-line shop two AirTags with original packaging. They came from clients return and sold as second hand items. Serial number on both match to serial number on a packaging.


I tried to pair both with my iPhone but unfortunately AirTags are associated with someone Apple ID.


can Apple disconnect them from somebody Find app if I have a purchase document , orginal packaging and matching serial number? Both are on warranty till May 2026.

Posted on Dec 15, 2025 1:06 PM

Reply
6 replies

Dec 15, 2025 7:10 PM in response to _seBek

_seBek wrote:

can Apple disconnect them from somebody Find app if I have a purchase document , orginal packaging and matching serial number?

Short answer: No. Thus, return them, and get your money back.


Unfortunately, this is a known and frustrating situation with second-hand AirTags. AirTags are protected by Activation Lock, which permanently links them to the original owner’s Apple ID through the Find My network. Even if you have original packaging, matching serial numbers, a valid purchase invoice, and remaining warranty, Apple generally will not remove an AirTag from someone else’s Apple ID unless the original owner signs in and removes it themselves.

Dec 16, 2025 8:23 AM in response to _seBek

_seBek wrote:

If I may conclude on that => direct contact with Apple is pointless and AirTags cannot be used anymore?

Nope, return them as you indicated you had 14 days from the location where they were purchased. The original owner is the one that can reset the device for resale and Apple cannot do that for you. That is a great feature that you will appreciate if you ever lose an AirTag knowing that someone else will not be able to set it up as theirs.

Unpair AirTag from previous owner Apple ID

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