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Purchasing a used iPhone can be an exciting yet nerve-racking experience. While the main goal is to get a great deal on a smartphone, there’s always an underlying concern about what’s the previous owner’s Apple ID doing on the phone. In most cases, the previous owner has already removed the Apple ID from the device. However, what happens when the Apple ID stays or is stuck on your used iPhone? There’s no need to worry since this article will discuss How to Remove Previous Owner’s Apple ID on iPhone.
Previously, there was only one way to remove the previous owner’s Apple ID from your used iPhone, and that was to contact the previous owner and ask them to remove it. However, Apple has updated its system to iCloud.com, and it’s now possible to remove the Apple ID without permission.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenges of Removing the Previous Owner’s Apple ID
Removing the previous owner’s Apple ID from your iPhone can be a bit challenging. Firstly, without the previous owner’s permission, the task can seem next to impossible. However, as previously mentioned, Apple has made it possible to remove it without permission. Secondly, if you try to reset the device, you’ll need the Apple ID password to gain access to the device, and without it, there’s no way to reset it. Thirdly, trying to remove it manually and without proper guidance can also be time-consuming and tricky.
Method 1: Remove Apple ID via iCloud.com
This method is one of the simplest and easiest to carry out and it’s done online via iCloud.com.
Step 1: Take the iPhone and ensure it’s connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Step 2: Open a web browser and visit the iCloud website.
Step 3: Sign in using the previous owner’s Apple ID.
Step 4: Click ‘Find iPhone’ from the icons that appear
Step 5: On the map that shows up, click ‘All Devices’ at the top of the page.
Step 6: Select the iPhone you want to remove the Apple ID.
Step 7: Click ‘Erase iPhone,’ and confirm the action.
Step 8: After the phone has finished erasing, click ‘Remove from Account.’
Pros:
• It doesn’t require technical skills.
• It’s done online, hence no need to contact the previous owner.
Cons:
• The previous owner may elect not to remove the device from iCloud.
• The previous owner’s Apple ID will remain associated with your device.
Method 2: Contact the Previous Owner
One of the most straightforward methods to remove the previous owner’s Apple ID from your iPhone is by contacting them and asking them to remove it.
Step 1: Contact the previous owner, either through their contact details or from the platform where you made the purchase.
Step 2: Explain to the previous owner that you need them to remove their Apple ID from the device.
Step 3: After confirmation, provide the previous owner with the iPhone’s serial number or IMEI.
Step 4: Wait for the previous owner to remove the Apple ID.
Pros:
• It’s straightforward.
• It ensures that the previous owner’s Apple ID credentials are removed entirely.
Cons:
• It can take time to reach the previous owner.
• The success of this method depends on the cooperation of the previous owner.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Service
This method involves using a third-party service, that specializes in removing Apple IDs from iPhones.
Step 1: Research online for the best third-party services that remove Apple IDs from iPhones.
Step 2: Select the third-party service that you are satisfied with.
Step 3: Follow the third-party’s instructions to remove the previous owner’s Apple ID.
Pros:
• It’s precise and guarantees successful results.
• It saves time and is easier to execute.
Cons:
• It can be expensive.
• Third-party service providers can be hard to find.
Why Can’t I Remove Previous Owner’s Apple ID?
1. You cannot remove the Apple ID if you do not have the previous owner’s credentials.
2. If you reset your device and find out that the Apple ID information is already present, there’s no way to remove it without the previous owner’s permission or third-party intervention.
3. Attempting to remove the Apple ID without proper guidance may lead to the loss of crucial phone data.
Bonus Tips
• Always have proper guidance before attempting to remove the previous owner’s Apple ID.
• Ensure you research extensively on various ways to remove the Apple ID.
• Verify that the previous owner’s Apple ID is not on the device before purchasing a used iPhone.
FAQs
Q: What do I do when the previous owner is not picking up my calls or texts?
A: You can try emailing them, sending them a message through social media or getting in touch with the platform where you made the purchase.
Q: Can I remove the Apple ID without contacting the previous owner?
A: Yes, it’s possible to remove the Apple ID from iCloud.com without contacting the previous owner.
Q: Can I reset the device without the previous owner’s Apple ID?
A: Depending on the iOS version and device model, you may not be able to reset your iPhone entirely.
Q: Is it safe to use a third-party service to remove the Apple ID?
A: Yes, it’s safe, provided you verify that the third-party service provider is reputable.
Q: What happens when the previous owner doesn’t remove their Apple ID?
A: Factory resetting the device will not remove the previous owner’s Apple ID if it’s still linked to the device. In such cases, you may need to contact Apple customer support.
Conclusion
Removing the previous owner’s Apple ID from your iPhone can be challenging. However, following these methods will assist you in successfully removing the previous owner’s Apple ID and having full control of your new device. It’s essential to note that the best method for you will depend on the particular iOS version and model of your iPhone. Therefore, always research extensively and seek professional guidance before taking any action.