In this guide, we will make you aware of the reasons behind the “This device is already associated with an Apple account” issue and the ways to deal with it. One of the most common issues plaguing iPhone users is the aforementioned error message. This usually tends to happen when you have purchased a second-hand or used device and the previous owner didn’t remove all their data from the device or in other words, didn’t unlink their Apple account.
In rare cases, it might also happen in new devices, all thanks to the Cupertino giant messing up your linked Apple account in the backend. Talking about rare cases, one cannot ignore the role of malware in these situations [while Apple devices are known to be among the most secure ones out there, however, “phones are phones, and phones does get infected” {thanks Jerry!}].
Making matters worse is the fact that when this prompt appears, you do get the Transfer option, but that does no good to this process whatsoever. With that said, this guide will have a look at all the plausible methods to address this issue. So without further ado, let’s check them out.
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Fix This device is already associated with an Apple account
It is recommended that you try out each of the below-mentioned workarounds and then see which one spells out success. So with that in mind, let’s get started.
FIX 1: Re-Authorize iPhone
Your first course of action should be to unlink your iPhone from your Apple account and then re-link it. Here’s how it can be done:
- To begin with, head over to Account > View My Account.
- Head to Manage Devices > select your device > remove it.
- Now download anything of your choice from the App Store.
- You’ll get a reauthorization prompt, proceed with the on-screen steps to complete it.
FIX 2: Remove Multiple Apple IDs
If you have more than one Apple ID linked across numerous Apple products, then unlink them and make sure to be logged in via one single account across all those services. Here’s how it can be done:
- Head over to Settings and tap on your name at the top.
- Then check you email under iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store.
- Now make sure that you are logged in across all these services using one single account.
- If that is not the case, then log out and then log in via the same ID.
FIX 3: Look for Suspicious Files/Apps
If you find any suspicious files downloaded to your device or any such app installed, then make sure to delete them right away as they be maiclous files which have mamaged to creep into your device. They can reslult in quite a few issues, incluiddng the one that we are currently dealing with. So bid adieu as soon as possible and see if it works out in your favor.
FIX 4: Wait for 90 Days!
If you have recently linked your Apple account to your iPhone, then you might have to wait for around 3 months before you can link your new Apple account.
That’s it. These were the various methods to fix the “This device is already associated with an Apple account” issue. If you have any queries concerning the aforementioned steps, do let us know in the comments. We will get back to you with a solution as soon as possible.
