Apple has launched a new way for users in the United States to more easily disable Activation Lock on their device. As first noticed by users on Reddit, there is now a dedicated web page on Apple’s website for managing Activation Lock requests.
For those unfamiliar, Apple’s breakdown of what exactly Activation Lock is:
Find My contains activation lock – a feature designed to prevent anyone else from using your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch if it is ever lost or stolen. Activation lock is turned on automatically when you turn on Find My.
Activation Lock helps keep your device safe, even in the wrong hands, and can improve your chances of recovering it. Even if you delete your device remotely, Activation Lock can continue to prevent anyone from reactivating your device without your permission.
There are several reasons why you should turn off Activation Lock on a device, such as selling or giving it away, and Apple hopes to make this process easier and simpler for users.
On this new webpage, Apple explains to users that you can disable Activation Lock by signing in to your iCloud account or by resetting your Apple ID. The site provides quick links to do both of these things.
More notably, the website enables users to easily initiate an Activation Lock support request. Here, users can submit a request without contacting Apple Support directly to disable Activation Lock on a device.
- You must be the owner of the device Proof of ownership documentation is required. Proof of ownership must include the product serial number, IMEI or MEID.
- Your data on the device will be deleted – If Apple Activation Lock unlocks your device, all files and data stored on your device will be permanently deleted. Note that restoring your device from a local backup will reactivate the activation lock.
- We could not unlock a managed device – If your device is owned by a business or educational institution, contact your IT department or manager. We also do not accept bulk requests.
- Your device should not be in lost mode.
Once you acknowledge these terms, Apple will ask for your email address and device serial number, IMEI or MEID. You can then submit the request and Apple will follow up on it via email.
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