How to Fix Locked Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12 mini

Part of why you own and use Apple devices is the reliability of the Apple iPhone 12 mini devices and the ease of using them. This starts with the quality of hardware and the synergy with the software that runs the hardware, and the user experience you get. Apple puts great emphasis on this, and rightly so, for this is one of the keys defining and differentiating factors for people to choose Apple’s iOS over Google’s Android. Like with all good things in life, sometimes, a spanner is put in the works that bring your smooth-sailing life to an abrupt halt. With smartphones playing pivotal roles in our lives today, from payments to internet experiences to getting work done to stay in touch with people, anything that stops us from using our smartphone or endangers that experience is a cause for worry. A locked Apple ID is one such thing. It does not happen frequently, in fact, most users will never experience a locked Apple ID, but for the ones who are fortunate enough to have such a rare experience in life, help is at hand. All you need to do is relax and read on. By the end of it, you will have an unlocked Apple ID and you can go back to cruising.

Part I: Difference Between Activation Lock and Locked Apple ID

Apple being Apple, does a lot to make sure that users get the smoothest experience possible when interacting with their Apple products, both hardware, and software. Yet, sometimes, the messaging gets confusing, and people are not sure what is what. One such thing is the difference between iCloud Activation Lock and Apple ID Lock. While people are more likely to encounter Activation Lock and less likely to encounter Apple ID Lock, they are often confused when they encounter Apple ID Lock and struggle to figure out what that means and how to resolve the issue.

Activation Lock is when your supported Apple device is locked for a number of reasons. The most common reason is a stolen device that was locked by its owner, however, there are other perfectly valid reasons such as an outgoing employee forgetting to sign out and erase their Apple device before submitting it back. The IT department would not be able to reset that device without turning off Find My Apple iPhone 12 mini and Activation Lock on the Apple iPhone 12 mini device.

A locked Apple ID usually happens when the user has forgotten their password to their Apple ID account and attempts to figure out the password have been unsuccessful. Sometimes, Apple ID gets locked automatically under some conditions, and that requires users to reset their password to gain access. A locked Apple ID does not mean that your device is locked for your use. You can keep using it so long as you do not try to use another Apple ID with it since to do that you would have to sign out of your current Apple ID (which is locked) and you won’t be able to do that. On the other hand, Activation Lock renders the entire device unusable till the lock is cleared.

In short, Apple ID Lock is about a user’s account with Apple, akin to how Google Account works on Android devices. Apple ID Lock locks a user’s account with Apple while retaining complete usage of the Apple iPhone 12 mini device whereas Activation Lock locks the Apple iPhone 12 mini device and prevents anyone from using it until the correct credentials are entered. This is about verifying the ownership of the Apple iPhone 12 mini device and works to deter theft of Apple devices.

Part II: Checking If Your Apple ID Is Locked

A locked Apple ID is rather unmistakable. Your device would keep telling you that your Apple ID is locked for your security. Your Apple ID could be locked or disabled altogether if someone has tried to gain access to your account (and, obviously, failed). Apple would disable access to the Apple ID unless you are able to prove rightful ownership and reset the password successfully.

Part III: Reasons for Locked Apple ID

There can be a few reasons why your Apple ID is locked. You forgot the password and now it is locked since you entered the wrong password too many times. A scarier prospect, albeit a real one, is that some malicious actor attempted to login into your Apple ID account but failed. Had they succeeded, you would have gotten a message that ‘your Apple ID is being used on another device’ now.

Apple does a lot to ensure that your Apple ID remains safe. You trust Apple with a lot of your data, including financial data by way of your credit cards associated with Apple ID to make purchases on the App Store and iTunes Store. Therefore, some of the time, Apple preempts issues by proactively locking up your Apple ID or even disabling it. It goes without saying that sometimes it is something so simple as a software error that is believed to have locked up Apple IDs for many users around the world a while ago. It is also entirely possible that it was some malicious actor probing the servers for accounts.

All of these will result in a locked Apple ID that users will have to reset their password to in order to gain access back.

Part IV: How to Unlock Apple ID on Apple iPhone 12 mini

It is unfortunate you are facing a locked Apple ID. Apple tries its best to make users aware of safety protocols they need to follow to minimize and mitigate such unfortunate occurrences, such as using two-factor authentication, trusted devices, trusted phone numbers, passwords, passcodes, etc. that serve as deterrents to prevent unauthorized access to devices and accounts. Yet, when the unfortunate happens, what to do?

IV.I: Unlock Apple ID Via Two-Factor Authentication

Apple implemented two-factor authentication a long time ago to prevent unauthorized access to Apple ID accounts. If you have it enabled, you would be able to use two-factor authentication to unlock your Apple ID again.

Step 1: Go to https://iforgot.apple.com .

Step 2: Key in your Apple ID and proceed.

Step 3: Confirm your mobile number associated with the Apple ID.

If you have another device associated with the Apple ID and it is a trusted device, you can now receive instructions to proceed with a two-factor code on that device.

Step 4: Use that code to unlock your Apple ID using two-factor authentication.

IV.II Unlock Apple ID Via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Dr.Fone is a name that will be instantly familiar to anyone who has ever had any issue with their mobile devices and would be able to vouch for the quality and efficacy of this software at fixing issues quickly and efficiently.

Dr.Fone is a collection of carefully crafted modules that helps you when most needed. Ranging from helping you wipe your devices securely with Data Eraser to maintain your privacy when you sell your device or give it to service and helping you erase not just junk on your device but also user data such as SMS (whether single or batch) to free up some space on your Apple iPhone 12 mini, to Phone Transfer that helps you to easily transfer data you’re your old phone to your new Apple iPhone 12 mini including restoring from iCloud Backups, Dr.Fone is a venerable utility from Wondershare that does it all and lives up to its name. Naturally, this tool was designed to help you unlock your Apple ID as well.

Step 1: Download Dr.Fone.

Step 2: Launch Dr.Fone and select the Screen Unlock module.

Step 3: Click Unlock Apple ID to start the process.

Step 4: Connect your device to the computer and wait for Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) to detect it. You must know the passcode of your device.

You will be asked on your Apple iPhone 12 mini to Trust the computer, and then you will need to enter the passcode.

Step 5: Unlocking Apple ID via Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will erase the contents of the Apple iPhone 12 mini device. You need to confirm this by typing six zeroes (000 000) in the popup.

Step 6: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset all your settings on the Apple iPhone 12 mini and then reboot to start the unlocking process.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) will notify you when the process is complete.

Part V: Conclusion

Considering how much the Apple ID is pivotal to our Apple experience, it can be incredibly unnerving to realize that it is locked or disabled, due to any reason. We use our Apple ID for iCloud services on Apple devices, to make purchases on iTunes Store and App Store and payments using Apple Pay. Apple knows this and has checked in place to make sure that only you are in possession of your Apple ID account at all times. It can cause a little hassle at times, since if someone makes multiple failed attempts to gain access to your account, Apple will lock your Apple ID until you can unlock it with proper verifications and reset your password.

How To Delete iCloud Account: Remove Your Apple ID Permanently On Apple iPhone 12 mini

Searching “How to delete iCloud account?” If you want to delete an iCloud account, you must delete an Apple ID account. And before you take this irreversible step, it’s crucial to understand the implications. Deleting your Apple ID account means permanently erasing all contents stored in your iCloud, such as media and documents. You’ll also lose access to essential Apple services such as the App Store, iMessage, and iTunes.

Deleting your Apple ID is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. Proceeding with Apple ID deletion is a final decision. Once initiated, there’s no turning back. If you’re certain about it, refer to this article for a step-by-step guide on how to delete iCloud account and explore alternative options if you need it.

Part 1: Deleting iCloud Account? Essential Preparations Before You Proceed

Before you learn the steps on “how to delete icloud account,” take steps to ensure a smooth transition and prevent the loss of valuable data. Before you permanently remove an iCloud account, ensure you’ve completed the following:

Backup Your Data

Create a local copy of your files, photos, videos, and documents on your computer or an external hard drive. You can use cloud storage services or third-party apps like Wondershare Dr.Fone to selectively restore it later.

Request a Copy of Your Data

Apple provides a service on selected regions that allows you to request a copy of data associated with your Apple ID before deleting your account. It includes records of your sign-in, account details, iCloud contents, and Apple retail store transactions. Having a copy of this data can be useful if you need to access it in the future.

To request a copy of your data, go to Privacy Apple on your web browser. Under the Obtain a copy of your data section, click Request a copy of your data. Next, select the data you need and click Continue.

Review Your Active Subscriptions

Also, to “delete iCloud account,” first review any active subscriptions you may have, such as Apple Music, Apple TV+, or iCloud+ storage. If you don’t want to continue these subscriptions, cancel them before deleting your account.

Download Backups of Your Apps, Games, Music, Movies, TV Shows, Books, and Audiobooks

Your iCloud account may contain backups of your apps, games, and media purchases. Before deleting your Apple ID account, download them to your device or a computer to ensure you don’t lose access to your favorite content.

Pay Loan Installments You Have With Apple Pay Later

If you have an outstanding loan with Apple Pay Later, pay off any remaining installments before you delete your iCloud account. Otherwise, you may incur late fees or other penalties.

Sign Out of Your Devices and Web Browser

Before deleting your iCloud account, ensure you sign out of your account on all devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and web browsers. Failure to sign out of an account can lead to several potential risks and inconveniences, including:

• Restricted device access
• App malfunctioning
• Constant Sign-in errors
• Web browsers retain your Apple ID information

Part 2: Remove iCloud Account Without Deleting: Maintaining Your Apple ID

Removing an iCloud account from your device doesn’t necessarily mean deleting the account itself. It simply means signing out of your iCloud account on that device. Your iCloud data remains intact and accessible from other devices.

However, when you sign out of iCloud on your device, you will be signed out of all Apple services that use your iCloud account. It includes Apple Pay, Find My, iCloud Mail, Siri Shortcuts, and others. You need to sign in with your Apple ID to use these services again.

Remove iCloud Account on iPhone

Here’s “how to remove iCloud account“ from your Apple iPhone 12 mini without deleting the account:

• Step 1: Open the Settings app, then tap the Apple ID at the top of the Apple iPhone 12 mini screen.
• Step 2: Scroll down, tap on Sign Out, enter your Apple ID password, and tap on Turn Off.

• Step 3: Tap on Sign Out to verify.

Remove iCloud Account on Mac Device

Follow these steps below to remove an iCloud account from your macOS Ventura or later:

• Step 1: Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner of your screen, then choose System Settings.
• Step 2: Click on the Apple ID icon and click Sign Out.

• Step 3: Select the data files you want to save, then click Keep a Copy.

Part 3: How To Delete iCloud Account Permanently?

Deleting your Apple ID has effects beyond the loss of data and services. These include:

• Apple will not be able to recover your Apple ID or any associated data once deleted.
• After deleting your iCloud account, any messages sent to you via iCloud Mail or iMessage will not be delivered.
• If you have any unused credit balance in your iCloud account, you cannot redeem or refund it upon deletion.
• The email address associated with your deleted Apple ID becomes unavailable for creating a new Apple ID.

If you are sure of your decision and have prepared for the consequences, here’s how to permanently delete your iCloud account:

• Step 1: Open a web browser and visit Apple’s privacy website: privacy.apple.com. Sign in using the Apple ID associated with the iCloud account you want to delete.

• Step 2: From Delete your account section, click Request to delete your account.

• Step 3: Choose a reason from the provided options in the drop-down menu for deleting your iCloud account, then click Continue.

• Step 4: Review the information displayed, ensuring you want to proceed with deleting your iCloud account. Click Continue.
• Step 5: Choose where Apple can send you updates regarding your deletion request. Click Continue.

• Step 6: Follow the instructions provided to verify your identity. It may involve entering a code sent to your trusted device or answering security questions.

• Step 7: Review the summary of your deletion request, ensuring all details are accurate. Next, click Delete Account to finalize the deletion process.

Part 4: How To Remove an iCloud Account Without a Password?

You’re not alone if you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password or bought a used iPhone with the previous owner’s Apple ID still on it. Many people find themselves in this situation, and it can be frustrating not being able to remove the iCloud account without the password. Fortunately, there is a way to do this using Dr. Fone’s iOS Screen Unlock tool:

• Compatible with all versions of iOS, including the latest iOS 17.
• Unlock different iPhone locks, such as screen locks and SIM locks.
• Bypass iCloud Activation lock
• Remove Apple ID even if the iOS device has enabled Find My service

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Dr.Fone to remove an iCloud account without a password:

• Step 1: Download and install Dr.Fone on your desktop.

• Step 2: Launch the software and go to My Device. Follow the in-app instructions to connect your Apple iPhone 12 mini to your computer using a USB cable.

Image name: how-to-delete-icloud-account-13.png

• Step 3: Go to Toolbox from the left navigation pane and select Screen Unlock > iOS.

• Step 4: Select Remove AppleID on the next window.

• Step 5: Click Unlock Now to proceed.

Note:

If you continue to “remove iCloud account“, this will erase all data from your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Step 6: Click Yes if you have set up a screen lock.

• Step 7: Click Yes if you have already enabled Two-Factor Authentication on your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Step 8: Follow the on-screen instructions to put your device into Recovery Mode.

• Step 9: Dr.Fone will recognize your device in the Device Model. Choose an option from the System Version drop-down list and click Start.

• Step 10: The latest iOS firmware is being downloaded.

• Step 11: Click Unlock Now to proceed.

• Step 12: Enter the code given in the dialogue box and click Unlock to continue.

• Step 13: Dr.Fone will then begin removing the iCloud account. Do not disconnect or use your device while the process is ongoing to avoid device issues.

• Step 14: To finalize the Apple ID removal process, please check your device and click Done once you’ve verified it.

Part 5: How To Remove an iCloud Account Without Deleting an Apple ID Account?

Deciding to permanently “delete iCloud account“ or Apple ID is a significant step. If you’re unsure about this irreversible action, consider deactivating your account. Deactivating your Apple ID temporarily suspends it. However, this feature may depend on your location.

Once you deactivate your Apple ID, you can no longer use it to sign into any Apple services, including iCloud, the App Store, iTunes, Apple Books, FaceTime, and Apple Pay. Even so, deactivating your Apple ID does not delete your account. You can reactivate your account anytime to regain access to all your Apple services and data.

Here’s how to temporarily deactivate your Apple ID account:

• Step 1: Go to Apple’s Data and Privacy website. Sign in using your Apple ID.
• Step 2: Scroll down to the Temporarily deactivate your account section and click Request to deactivate your account.

• Step 3: Select a reason for deactivating your account from the drop-down menu, then click Continue.
• Step 4: Review the information and follow the on-screen instructions to complete deactivation.

Note:

Keep the unique alphanumeric access code you’ll receive. You’ll need it to reactivate your Apple ID account.

More Article About iCloud Account:

Ways to Restore from iCloud Backup Without Reset

3 Ways to Recover iCloud Password

iOS 16: Best Ways to Bypass iCloud Activation Lock on iPhone/iPad

Conclusion

As you’ve learned, deleting an iCloud account is a permanent decision you cannot reverse. Once deleted, your account and all associated data will be permanently erased from Apple’s servers. Thus, it’s crucial to back up your data before proceeding.

Apps like Dr.Fone provide a comprehensive solution for backing up your data and removing an iCloud account without a password. Its user-friendly interface and streamlined processes make it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick and hassle-free experience. Whether you’re looking for an answer on “how to delete iCloud account“ or “remove iCloud account,” Dr.Fone is the ultimate tool to guide you through the process.

How To Unlink Apple ID From Apple iPhone 12 mini

Apple devices are now an essential part of our daily lives. They provide access to a variety of services and apps. But there may come a time when you need to unlink your Apple ID from your device. It could be because you’re giving away or selling your device or facing device limits or download issues.

Either way, understanding how to do it is essential for maintaining control over one’s digital footprint. This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to unlink Apple ID from iPhone devices and Apple Watch. We’ll provide clear and concise instructions for every scenario, whether you have your Apple ID password, have lost or forgotten it, or are dealing with a lost device.

Part 1: How To Unlink Apple ID From Connected Devices With Password

Keeping track of where your Apple ID is being used is essential for maintaining control over your digital identity. Fortunately, using your Apple iPhone 12 mini or Mac, you can easily identify all the Apple iPhone 12 mini devices currently linked to your Apple ID. It is helpful for those who have shared their Apple ID with others or suspect unauthorized access.

Removing a device from your Apple ID with two-factor authentication activated will turn off verification code delivery on that device. Also, the Apple iPhone 12 mini device will no longer be able to access iCloud content, such as your photos, contacts, and calendar.

How To Unlink Apple ID From iPhone?

Before you unlink an iPhone from Apple ID, it’s also essential to identify all the Apple iPhone 12 mini devices currently signed in with your account. This crucial step ensures you don’t inadvertently lock yourself out of your Apple ID on other devices.

• Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Step 2: Tap on [your name] at the top of the screen and scroll down.

• Step 3: Unpair an iPhone from Apple ID in two ways:

• Tap Sign Out, then enter your Apple ID password. Next, tap Sign Out Tap Delete Apple IDfrom Apple iPhone 12 mini to verify that you want to remove your Apple ID from the Apple iPhone 12 mini you are currently using.

• Tap on any device name to see its details. If it is the one you trust, you can use it to receive Apple ID verification codes. Then, tap Remove from Account.

How To Unlink Apple ID Settings From Mac?

Follow these steps below to use your macOS to remove the connected devices from your Apple ID.

• Step 1: Go to the Apple menu in the top left corner of the Apple iPhone 12 mini device’s screen.

• Step 2: Select System Settings or System Preferences, depending on the Apple iPhone 12 mini device.

• Step 3: Click [your name] or Apple ID for macOS Monterey or earlier.

• Step 4: Scroll down and unpair the Apple ID on your Mac in two ways:

• Click Sign Outto remove your Apple ID on the desktop you are currently using.

• From the Devicessection, click the connected device you want to unlink. Click Remove from Account.

Part 2: How To Unlink Apple ID From iOS Devices Without a Password?

In the previous section, we’ve explored the standard method to remove an Apple ID from an iPhone, which requires the Apple ID password. However, what if you’ve forgotten your Apple iPhone 12 mini’s passcode or don’t have the Apple ID password? In such situations, Wondershare Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock can help you unpair your Apple ID on iOS devices without hassle. Even without an Apple ID password, Dr.Fone can help you:

• Bypass the Activation Lock
• Unpair Apple ID and erase the iPhone’s content, even if the Find My feature is enabled
• Remove the iOS lock screen

The tool guides you through the process, ensuring a seamless experience with a user-friendly interface and intuitive design. Let’s delve into the step-by-step guide to discover how to unlink Apple ID from iPhone devices using Dr. Fone’s - Screen Unlock tool.

• Step 1: Download, set up, then launch Dr.Fone on your desktop. Use a USB cable to establish a connection between your Apple iPhone 12 mini and desktop.

• Step 2: From the Toolbox homepage, select Screen Unlock and choose iOS.

• Step 3: Select Remove AppleID to unpair the existing Apple ID from your Apple iPhone 12 mini without an Apple ID password.

• Step 4: Click Unlock Now to continue.

• Step 5: Click Yes to confirm you have a screen lock on your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Step 6: Click Yes to confirm you have enabled the two-factor authentication on your Apple iPhone 12 mini.

• Step 7: Follow the steps on the screen to put your Apple iPhone 12 mini into Recovery Mode. If you are having trouble, click DFU Mode in the bottom left corner.

• Step 8: Select an option in the System Version drop-down menu and click Start.

• Step 9: Wait while the respective iOS firmware downloads. Alternatively, click Copy to do it yourself.

• Step 10: Once the firmware is ready, click Unlock Now.

• Step 11: Read the note in the dialogue box and enter the code in the confirmation box. Then, click Unlock to continue.

• Step 12: Wait while the app is unlocking the Apple ID. Refrain from using your device while connected to your desktop.

• Step 13: Click Done, then check your Apple iPhone 12 mini to see if the Apple ID has been removed.

Part 3: How To Unlink iPhone From Apple ID if the Apple iPhone 12 mini device Was Lost?

You already know the methods to unlink iPhone from Apple ID, both with and without a password, assuming the Apple iPhone 12 mini device is accessible. However, what if your Apple iPhone 12 mini or Apple Watch is lost, stolen, or you already gave away? Fortunately, there’s still a way to unpair your Apple ID from your iOS device.

Unlink iPhone From Apple ID Remotely

Follow these steps and explore how to unlink Apple ID from iPhone and other iOS devices online:

• Step 1: Navigate to appleid.apple.com on a web browser.
• Step 2: Click Devices on the right-side navigation pane.
• Step 3: Choose your iOS device from the list in the Devices section.

• Step 4: Click Remove from account and click Remove again to confirm.

Unlink iPhone From Apple ID Using the Find My App

Here is how to unpair your Apple ID on a device you sold or gave away via the Find My app.

• Step 1: Open the Find My app and go to the Devices tab at the lower navigation pane. Next, select the name of your Apple iPhone 12 mini you want to unpair.

• Step 2: Tap Erase This Device, then tap Continue.

Note:

Indicate if the Apple iPhone 12 mini device was stolen.

• Step 3: Tap Erase, enter your Apple ID password, and then tap Erase again.

Bonus Part: How To Unlink Apple Watch From Apple ID?

There are several reasons to unpair an Apple Watch from an Apple ID. Perhaps you’re selling or giving away your Apple Watch or trading it in for a new one. Or maybe you only want to remove your Apple Watch from your Apple ID altogether.

No matter what your reason, removing an Apple Watch from an Apple ID is a simple process. Here, we’ll walk you through the steps to restore your Apple Watch to its factory settings.

How To Unlink Apple Watch From Apple ID if You Have Your Apple iPhone 12 mini?

Follow the unpairing process on the paired Apple iPhone 12 mini to remove the Activation Lock and erase your Apple Watch’s content and settings.

• Step 1: Check to ensure your Apple Watch and iPhone are close.
• Step 2: Launch the Watch application on your Apple iPhone 12 mini and go to the My Watch tab.
• Step 3: Tap All Watches in the upper left corner.

• Step 4: Locate and tap the information icon adjacent to the name of your Apple Watch.

• Step 5: Tap Unpair Apple Watch, then tap Unpair Apple Watch.

• Step 6: If you have a cellular Apple Watch, tap Remove Cellular Plan, and remember to reach your carrier to cancel your subscription.
• Step 7: Provide your Apple ID password to deactivate the Activation Lock.

• Step 8: Tap Unpair to confirm your action.

How To Unlink Apple Watch From Apple ID Without Your Apple iPhone 12 mini?

You can erase your Apple Watch without the paired iPhone, but the Activation Lock will still be active. But, if you give away your Apple Watch without turning off the Activation Lock, the person you give it to cannot use it. They’ll have to enter your Apple ID and password to turn off the Activation Lock and use it with a new iPhone.

• Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.
• Step 2: Go to General > Reset, tap Erase All Content and Settings. Then, enter your password, if needed.

• Step 3: Tap Erase All to restore your Apple Watch to its factory settings.

Conclusion

There are several ways to unlink your Apple ID from your Apple iPhone 12 mini or iPad. The best way to do it depends on your situation and available iOS device. Whichever your reason is, understanding how to unlink Apple ID from iPhone and other iOS devices is crucial.

If you unfortunately encounter any challenges during the process, you can seek assistance from Apple Support. Consider using Dr.Fone for a quick and easy solution, which can unlink your Apple iPhone 12 mini from your Apple ID within minutes, even without an Apple ID password.