Apple ID cannot be used to unlock this iPhone

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Apple ID

Having a hard time unlocking your iPhone with your iCloud credentials? Don’t worry. You can easily solve the problem by following a simple set of instructions. But, first you must understand why your phone is locked. Especially the error message “the Apple ID cannot be used to unlock this iPhone.”

To start with, the message shows up because the iCloud lock activation on your iPhone is enabled. And the sole purpose for the feature is to prevent theft since anyone who acquires the phone must enter your Apple ID and password before using it.

Secondly, it’s likely your iPhone is a used device that is still linked to the original owner’s iCloud account.

Ways to fix the “Apple ID can’t be used to unlock this iPhone” error

Here are a few solutions to help you access your iPhone.

1. Disable iCloud lock activation

Start by login in to your iCloud on a computer. Use the same username and passcode. Once you’re in, find your iPhone and disable the lock activation.

This feature usually turns on whenever you enable Find My (device) on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple Watch, or mac computer with an Apple T2 security chip.

What happens is that your Apple ID will be stored safely on Apple’s activation servers and linked to your device(s). Therefore, unless someone has the Apple ID password or passcode, they won’t be able to turn off Find My (device), erase your device or reactivate and use your device.

Read Also: This update is not available for this Apple ID

2. Get in touch with the original owner

Now, if you were gifted the iPhone or bought it from somebody else, you need to find the original owner so that they can log out of iCloud, or erase the device and remove it from their account. remove the iPhone from their iCloud account.

3. Contact Apple ID support

Lastly, to get a better understanding why you can’t use your Apple ID to unlock your iPhone, reach out to the nearest Apple store. However, you should only do this if you are the original iPhone owner.

You will need to take the device, the original purchase receipt with the serial number, and photo ID. The Apple company dealers are better-placed to provide the best solutions – fast. The Apple ID support team is also available to respond to your inquiries.

4. Setting up Your iPhone Again

Following any of the steps above should help you answer why you cannot use Apple ID to unlock iPhone. Now, next is to set up your iPhone.

Turn on the device and follow the steps accordingly. You will need to connect to a Wi-Fi network, cellular network, and iTunes to proceed with the activation. Depending on your device, you can set up Face ID, touch ID, followed by a passcode.

Read Also: Fix: “Number changed to primary” error

If you have an iCloud or iTunes backup, you can restore data from the old device. Your iPhone should be ready to use in no time. The rest of the features can be customized to your preference and liking. In case of any questions, including “why the Apple ID cannot be used to unlock this iPad?” Don’t hesitate to comment below.