How do I create an Apple account in 2026?

Have you just bought an iPhone, iPad, or Mac? To get the most out of it, you need to create a Apple Account (formerly known as Apple ID). This account gives you access to iCloud to back up your data and locate your device.

Here's how to create it in less than 5 minutes, no matter what device you're using.

• On an iPhone or iPad, you can do this through the App Store or Settings.
• On a Mac, via System Preferences.

Create an account on an iPhone or iPad

The creation of a Apple account can be done as soon as you purchase your device, or even Coming soon to the App Store. You'll find out how to do it below.

Please note : Apple discontinued the iPod in May 2022. The steps below still apply to models still in use.

When configuring the device

There are a few specific steps to Create an Apple account When setting up your device:

• To get started, click “Forgot your password or don’t have an account?”.

• Next, click “Create a free Apple account.”.

• Next, enter your first and last name and your date of birth. Click “Continue.”.

• If you have an email address that you can access at any time, enter it. Otherwise, you can Create a free iCloud email address by clicking “Don’t have an email address?”.

Next, follow the on-screen instructions to verify your email address.

It is also recommended to’Enable two-factor authentication, which enhances the security of your account. Even if you choose to skip this step, you will still be required to complete it later in Settings. This is crucial for protecting your device.

In your device's app store

If you've already set up your iPhone or iPad, you can create an Apple account from the App Store.

📌 Before you begin:

• The operating system must be updated.
• Have a valid e-mail address to which you have access.

Now, here are the steps:

• First, open the App Store and click the sign-in button in the upper-right corner.

• Next, click “Create a new Apple account.”.

• To finish setting up your Apple account, follow the instructions, read the terms and conditions, and then accept them.

• Next, follow the steps that appear on your screen.

Create an Apple ID on a Mac

For Mac users, the steps to create an Apple ID are just as simple. But before you begin, make sure you have the latest version of macOS installed.

• Open the Apple menu (the apple icon), then select System Settings.
• Next, click “Log In.”.

• Then, click “Don’t have an account?”.

• Enter your name and date of birth, then click “Continue.”.

• Next, you can enter an email address that you can access at any time, or Create a free iCloud email address by clicking on “Don’t have an email address?” and get your iCloud email address.

• Follow the instructions to Complete the setup.

Create an Apple account on the web

Did you know that it's possible to Create an Apple ID even if you don't have an Apple device ? Yes, you can do that on the Web. Here are the steps to do that:

• Go to account.apple.com
• Click “Create Your Apple Account.”.

• Enter your information (first name, last name, country, date of birth, email address, password, phone number) and follow the steps to complete the setup.

This web-based method works from any computer, including a Windows PC.

📌 During setup, on iPhone, iPad, or Mac, Apple also asks you for a payment method and your billing information. This step is not Not required for a free account. Just select the “None” option if you don’t want to add a card right away. You can always add a payment method later, such as when you make your first purchase on the App Store or on Apple TV.

Also, when you create it, you'll need to choose a password.

Apple requires a strong password—that is, one that is at least eight characters long and includes a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and numbers—in order to protect your username. You can also fill out a phone number, which is used to verify your identity and receive two-factor authentication codes. Be sure to confirm this phone number so you don't get locked out later.

FAQs

How do I create an Apple ID for a child?

Children under the age of 15 in France cannot create an account on their own.

Only parents can do this. To do so, go to Settings > your name > Family Sharing > Add Member. This will create a supervised account for your child, with age-appropriate restrictions.

I forgot my Apple ID. What should I do?

Go to iforgot.apple.com and enter the email address or phone number associated with your account.

Can you have more than one Apple ID?

Technically, yes. But Apple does not recommend this practice, because purchases (apps, music, movies) do not transfer from one account to another.

Now you know how Create your own Apple account, whether on an Apple device or on the web. Once your email address has been verified, you can sign in to the App Store, iCloud, and all Apple services using your Apple ID.

Now, if you'd like to learn more about your device, be sure to check out our guides on:

• How to Recover Lost Data on iOS
• How to Delete a Wallpaper in iOS 16