While exploring the web, I stumbled upon a question being discussed on several forums. A good many curious heads were asking, “If I change my Apple ID using iPhone or computer, will I lose my essential data?”
Finding plenty of substance in the question, I thought it’s apt to clear the clouds for the better. Having taken a close look at the aftereffects, I’m all geared up to bust the mystery. You’ve got the question; I’ve got the answer!
Before moving ahead, you should know the difference between Switching Apple ID and Changing Apple ID
- Keep in mind, switching Apple ID is different from changing. While in the former scenario you intend to jump over to an entirely new ID, in the latter you just wish to tweak or for that matter edit your ID
- If you sign out of your current Apple ID and log in with another one, you will lose your purchased apps, Apple Music subscription, and even iCloud storage plan. Of course, you do get the option to keep a copy of your Contacts, Keychain, News, Reminders, Safari, and Stocks
- When logging in with the new ID, Apple lets you merge the data on your iPhone with the iCloud account that’s associated with the different Apple ID. However, it’s not good enough and not everything travels to the other side of the fence
- Let’s set the record straight; you won’t lose any of your data if you edit your Apple ID. To be more precise, your Apple Music subscription, purchased apps, contacts will remain intact. Apple ensures a seamless experience, so there is no chance of any mishap
In this guide, I’m solely focused on editing the Apple ID as it’s a better way to not just tweak the ID but also keep everything secure.
- How to Change Apple ID on iPhone and iPad Without Losing Data
- How to Change Apple ID on Mac or Windows PC
How to Change Apple ID on iPhone and iPad without Losing Data
Step #1. Launch Settings app on your iOS device → Tap on Apple ID banner.
Step #2. Tap on Name, Phone Numbers, Email → Tap on Edit Next to CONTACTABLE/REACHABLE AT.
Step #3. Now, Tap on the red button and hit the Delete button.
Step #4. A popup will appear on the screen reading, “Please choose another address to use as your Apple ID.” Tap on Continue.
Step #5. Next up, you will need to authenticate using your passcode. Then, enter your new email ID. For example, [email protected] → Tap on Next.
Step #6. Now, you will receive an email with a verification code. Verify it and you are done!
Changing Apple ID from a computer is just as straightforward. Read on…
How to Change Apple ID on Mac or Windows PC
Step #1. First off, open any web browser and head over to https://appleid.apple.com.
Step #2. Now, sign in using your current Apple ID and password.
Step #3. If you have enabled Two-Factor Authentication, enter the code.
Step #4. Next to Account section, click on Edit.
Step #5. Click on Change Apple ID.
Step #6. Enter the new email ID and hit Continue. Now, Apple will send you an email with a verification code. Verify it to confirm.
That’s all there is to it! Check out all of your data. It will remain unchanged. Told you, it’s pretty seamless.
Hope, the mystery has been busted…
That’s how you can kill two birds with one stone. Follow this same trick to switch to a new ID without having to kill anything.
You might want to refer these posts as well:
- How to Remove Audio from Video on iPhone and iPad
- How to Reset Apple ID Password on iPhone, iPad and Mac.
- Setup and Listen to Podcasts on Apple Watch in watchOS 5
- How to Disable Apple Music Listening History on iPhone and iPad
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.