With the upcoming release of iOS 18, Apple is renaming the login system for its range of services.
Soon it will no longer be known as an Apple ID – and soon you will have some confused older relatives asking what this newfangled “Apple account” is that they keep seeing on their iPhone.
Here’s what you need to know about the change, including when it will be implemented and how it will affect your devices (if any).
Before we dive into the update, here’s a quick summary of Apple’s existing sign-in process.
An Apple ID is essentially the heart and soul of your iPhone, Mac, Apple Watch – or any other Apple device.
The new Apple ID branding will be introduced with iOS 18 in September
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It authenticates your identity when you sign in or make purchases on services like the App Store, iCloud, Apple TV, and Apple Music — and keeps unwanted users (along with your passcode) out.
You’ll need to set up an Apple ID or use an existing one when you turn on a new Apple device for the first time.
The system uses your email address and password to log you into services.
Once enabled, you can set up Face ID or Touch ID on supported devices to authenticate yourself and avoid having to enter your password each time.
The system has been around for more than two decades. Apple introduced it in 2000 to access the iTunes Store. Since then, it has been the central account for Apple’s services.
Now Apple is renaming Apple ID. The company has coined a new word for its login system that (barring any initial confusion) should be much easier to understand for everyone, young and old.
What is an Apple Account?
When iOS 18 is released in September, your Apple ID will be called an Apple Account. While your existing login information will remain the same (i.e. the same email and password combination), the new system is designed to provide “a unified sign-in experience across all Apple services and devices,” Apple says.
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Was the old branding confusing? One could argue that “ID” sounds too much like an official ID, such as a driver’s license.
In contrast, “account” is a more ubiquitous word on the Internet, associated with internet banking, streaming services, email, and social media.
What impact will it have?
It’s important to reiterate that this is primarily a cosmetic rebranding exercise by Apple. Users can continue to use their existing login credentials as usual. There should be no immediate changes to how you sign in to Apple devices or services.
However, it might cause some confusion when people first see the term “Apple Account” in pop-ups on their phones and Macs – and in the settings where the Apple ID used to be. In our age of SMS scams and phishing attempts, it will be up to Apple to inform users of the change during the iOS 18 setup process.
The Apple Account Name is one of several major changes coming as part of iOS 18 – with more powerful AI tools
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How to find your Apple ID email address
Have you forgotten your account details? To find your Apple ID email address, follow these steps:
On your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch:
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Go to Settings
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Tap your name at the top
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Select Sign-in & Security to view the email addresses and phone numbers associated with your Apple ID.
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For macOS Ventura or later, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, click your name, then choose Login & Security
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For earlier versions, go to Apple menu > System Preferences > Apple ID.
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If you’re signed in to the App Store, FaceTime, or Messages, your Apple ID may appear there
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You can also visit iCloud.com or appleid.apple.com to see if your Apple ID is autofilled on the sign-in screen.
How to reset your Apple ID password
On some iPads and Macs, you can also use Touch ID or Face ID to sign and complete purchases
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Forgot your password? Here’s how to reset it.
Go to Settings > (your name) > Password & security > Change password. You will need to enter your device’s passcode.
Using the Apple ID account page:
Go to appleid.apple.com and click “Forgot Apple ID or password?” Follow the instructions to reset your password.
Using the iForgot website:
Visit the iForgot website and enter your Apple ID email address. Follow the instructions to reset your password.
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