The time may come when you no longer want an Apple account. You can now permanently delete your Apple account on Apple’s Data & Privacy website. Here are the steps to do so.Â
Delete your Apple account
The ability to delete your Apple account was first introduced in early 2018 when Apple launched the Data & Privacy website. Primarily, this page was established so that you could request your personal Apple data. You can also use it to permanently delete your Apple account.
To do so:
1) Log into the privacy page with your Apple ID.
Depending on how you’ve set up your account, you may have to use two-step authentication.
2) Under Delete your Account, click Get Started.
Given the subject matter, the next page offers a long list of reasons not to delete your Apple account. These include not being able to access your iTunes, iBooks, and App Store purchases, to being unable to see your iCloud photos, videos, and documents.
Apple also recommends you make a local copy or backup of your data or get a copy of your data from the Data & Privacy website for moving forward. The company also says you should sign out of your devices and web browsers, and review your active subscriptions before making a chance.
Finally, Apple explains: “Account deletion is permanent. If you aren’t planning to use your account for now but may consider returning to it in the future, we recommend temporary deactivation instead of deletion.”
3) Before making a request to delete your account, Apple asks that you give a reason for your decision using the pull-down box. If your reason isn’t listed, you’re encouraged to specify it.
4) Click Continue.
5) You’re given one more chance not to permanently delete your Apple account on the next page. Once you confirm your decision one final time, your account is deleted.
Wrapping it up
If you feel you have a legitimate reason to delete your Apple account, please make sure you get a copy of that account information before you do so. Once this content is gone, there’s no way to retrieve it. Keep in this in mind.
Can you think of a reason to delete your Apple account? Let us know below.