How do I unauthorize devices that no longer exist?

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Level 1

1 points

How do I unauthorize devices that no longer exist?

I just replaced the hard drive in my computer after it dies and when I installed iTunes, tried to log in and authorize my computer it told me I had too many devices authorized. I tried to get to my device authorization through my iPhone but it didn't work. I've only got 2 devices currently that I use which means I have three old authorizations which need to be removed. How can I do this using my lap top that is not authorized? Thanks!

Posted on Jan 24, 2016 10:09 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

Kappy

Level 10

361,709 points

Jan 24, 2016 11:03 AM in response to LG_15

Authorization

iTunes Store- Authorize or deauthorize your Mac or PC.

In iTunes you use the Authorize This Computer or De-authorize This Computer option under the Store menu in iTunes' menubar. For Windows use the ALT-S keys to access it. Or turn on Windows 7 and 8 iTunes menus: iTunes- Turning on iTunes menus in Windows 8 and 7.

Deauthorization

You can de-authorize individual computers, but only by using those computers. The only other option is to "de-authorize all" from your iTunes account.

1. Open iTunes on a computer

2. From the Store menu, select "View my Account..."

3. Sign in with your Apple ID and password.

4. Under "Computer Authorizations" select "De-authorize All".

5. Authorize each computer you still have, as you may require.

You may only do this once per year.

After you "de-authorize all" your authorized computers, re-authorize each one as required.

If you have de-authorized all computers and need to do it again, but your year has not elapsed, then contact: Apple - Support - iTunes - Contact Us.

For more information on authorization and de-authorization: iTunes Store- Authorize or deauthorize your Mac or PC.

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Answer 2

hhgttg27

Level 5

5,591 points

Jan 24, 2016 11:05 AM in response to LG_15

If necessary, press Ctrl-B to enable the menu bar in iTunes
Select Store > View Account
Enter your Apple ID and password
On the Account Information page, click the Deauthorize All button (before doing so it should say that you have 5 computers authorized to play content)
Re-authorize the computer(s) that you do have access to (Store > Authorize This Computer...) in iTunes

Notes:

You can only use the Deauthorize All function once every 12 months - if you have a need to do this more frequently, you need to contact Apple Support
iTunes / the iTunes Store managed two separate sets of authorizations:
- Up to five computers that are authorized to play content purchased using your Apple ID
- Up to five iOS devices that are associated with your Apple ID, enabling iCloud, iTunes Match, etc. - see View and remove associated devices in iTunes - Apple Support

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