Creating an Apple ID: Everything you've always wanted to know

You need an Apple ID to do most things on your Apple devices.

Most people know how to create an Apple account because Apple typically asks them to do it when they first turn on their device. However, you may have to take a few extra steps to create one if you've recently bought a pre-owned device.

When you set up new Apple ID accounts, you'll be asked a variety of things. Personal information will be required, and you'll have the chance to create your password and username. After creating an account, you'll get access to many things.

Read on to learn more about creating an Apple ID and what you can do with it.

What Is an Apple ID?

An Apple ID is essentially a universal account for all Apple products. When you make an Apple ID, you can use it to log in to your iPhone, iPad, Mac, etc. In many cases, having an Apple ID is required if you'd like to do certain things.

Most people set up their accounts when they first get an Apple device because it will ask them to do so. Should you get a new device, you can log in with your preexisting Apple ID.

How to Set Up New Apple ID

If you have an Apple device but currently don't have an Apple ID, you can make one by going to the settings menu. When you're in the settings, you'll then need to tap "Sign in to your iPhone/iPad.".

There will be an option you can press if you don't have an Apple ID. After pressing that, you'll get a dialog box that will ask you to create an ID. You'll need to enter your birth date and full name.

Apple IDs can be created with your current email address, it doesn't matter what service you use. You can also opt to get an iCloud email, which is free. Enter your email address and then create a password.

The last thing you'll need to do is choose security questions for your account. These are questions that you'll answer to log in should you ever forget your information. When you choose the questions, you'll be prompted to enter the answers.

After creating your account, you'll be able to log in to any Apple device with it. You won't have to keep entering your login information unless you have two-step verification. Your account will be synced to iCloud so that your info transfers seamlessly between devices.

What to Use It For

Making a new Apple ID gives you access to several things that you can't use without it. Although most Apple users have an ID created, not everyone is aware of the things you can do with it. Here are some of the reasons to create one:

To Log In

Your Apple ID is an extra security measure for all of your devices. It's similar to having an email and password for a website because you need it to access all of your personal information. People typically have a lot of personal things stored on their devices, so the Apple ID will prevent people from breaching your data.

To Apply for an Apple Card

The Apple Card is a newer release from Apple. This is a credit card that's acquired directly from your mobile device, so you'll need an Apple ID to apply for it. You can apply through the Apple Wallet and you'll receive a notification of your application status.

Just like a device, Apple Cards are attached to your ID. If you ever run into problems, you can use your Apple ID to troubleshoot them. After you've been accepted, your card will be delivered in the mail. You can use the Wallet app to pay instead of the physical card if a store accepts it.

To Transfer Data

The iCloud allows users to transfer data between their devices through Apple IDs. When you log in to a new device, you can see all of your media, calendar items, iMessages, and more. Syncing your account with the iCloud will save you a ton of storage because none of the data is stored on your phone.

You Can Delete Your Account

While an Apple ID is required for most things, it's possible to delete Apple ID account information. People typically do this when they don't use Apple products anymore or they simply want to make a new account.

You'll need to do this through the Apple website. Keep in mind that once you do this, you won't be able to recover any information that was associated with the account. For example, any photos, videos, and messages will be gone forever.

This change is irreversible, so you should only do it when you're certain that you won't be using it again. If you do delete it, you can create a new one and log in to your devices just as you did previously.

Start Creating an Apple ID If You Don't Have One

Creating an Apple ID has never been easier thanks to Apple's seamless process. If you're someone that owns Apple devices or are about to purchase one, you'll need an Apple ID to do most things. If you ever want to download things from the App Store or use the iCloud, you'll need an Apple ID.

We encourage you to make an Apple ID so that you can have full control of your devices. The ID will act as an extra security measure against hackers, and it will be easier to recover information when you have one. You'll also be able to apply for Apple's exclusive credit card, the Apple Card.

Browse our articles to learn more about Apple products and their features.