Have you encountered the frustrating pop-up message saying, "This device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" when trying to sign in to your iPhone, iPad, or Mac? This issue often arises due to Apple ID security measures designed to protect users from unauthorized access. However, if you are the rightful owner and still facing this problem, it can be a major inconvenience. In this guide, we will explore what this error means and provide three proven solutions to bypass this device is already associated with an Apple account issue quickly.

Part 1: What Does "This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" Mean?
Part 2: How to Remove "This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" Pop-Up
- Way 1: Fix This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account by Tapping Transfer
- Way 2: Check iCloud and Apple Account Addresses Are Matched
- Way 3: Bypass "This Device Is Linked to Another Apple Account" by Removing Apple ID
Part 3: How Do I Know If Someone Is Using My Apple ID on Another Device?
Part 4: How Do I Find Out What Apple ID Is Associated with My iPhone?
Part 1: What Does "This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" Mean?
When you see this message, it indicates that your device is still associated with a previous Apple ID. This usually happens when:
- The device is still connected to an old Apple ID via iCloud.
- The activation lock is enabled, preventing unauthorized access.
- You purchased a second-hand iPhone or iPad that wasn’t properly unlinked from the previous owner’s Apple account.
- The Apple ID on your device does not match the iCloud account used previously.
- The device was reset, but the previous Apple ID was not removed.
- The iCloud account used for app purchases differs from the Apple ID used for signing in.
This security feature prevents theft and unauthorized use of Apple devices. However, if you're facing this issue with your own device, the solutions below will help you resolve it.
Part 2: How to Remove "This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" Pop-Up
If you’re repeatedly seeing this error message, it can be frustrating and limit access to your device. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix it, depending on your situation. Below are three effective methods to resolve the issue and regain control of your iPhone or iPad.
Way 1: Fix This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account by Tapping Transfer
One of the easiest ways to resolve this issue is by following Apple’s built-in process to transfer the device to a new account.

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Erase All Content and Settings to remove the previous Apple ID.
Follow the on-screen setup instructions to sign in with your Apple ID.
If prompted, enter the credentials of the previous Apple ID to confirm the transfer.
This method works only if you have access to the previous Apple ID credentials. If not, proceed to the next method.
Way 2: Check iCloud and Apple Account Addresses Are Matched
Sometimes, mismatched iCloud and Apple ID details can trigger this error. To remove this device is already associated with an apple account:
Open Settings on your iPhone.
Tap your Apple ID (your name at the top of the screen).
Check the email address associated with your Apple ID and compare it to the one used for iCloud.
If they don’t match, sign out and log in with the correct Apple ID.
Ensure that your Apple ID is the same across all Apple services, including App Store, iMessage, and FaceTime.
If the accounts match and the issue persists, you may need to remove the old Apple ID entirely using a third-party tool.
Way 3: Bypass "This Device Is Linked to Another Apple Account" by Removing Apple ID
If you’re unable to fix the issue with the above methods, the best solution is to remove the Apple ID from your device completely. This can be done with a professional tool like PassFab iPhone Unlocker. PassFab helps you unlink iPhone from another Apple ID, remove Apple ID and activation locks without requiring the previous owner’s credentials.
Key Features of PassFab iPhone Unlock
- Completely remove the already associated with an apple account from your device.
- Unlink your device from the old account to prevent it from being tracked or locked.
- After removal, enjoy full access to all Apple ID features and seamlessly use iCloud services.
- Also unlock other iPhone locks without a passcode, such as locked screen, restrictions, and more.
Here’s how to use it to unlink iPhone from another Apple ID:
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Launch PassFab iPhone Unlock
Just open this software and choose "Unlock Apple ID" mode.
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Connect Your Device to Computer
Now you have to connect your iPhone or iPad to the computer that has PassFab iPhone Unlock installed.
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Remove Apple ID
After successful connection, click "Start Remove" button to unlock your iCloud account which is related with your iPhone or iPad.
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Appple ID Remove Successfully
Now you can sign in with new iCloud Activation Lock and enjoy all the features.
Part 3: How Do I Know If Someone Is Using My Apple ID on Another Device?
If you suspect unauthorized access to your Apple ID, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Devices.
- Here, you’ll see a list of devices associated with your Apple ID.
- If there’s an unfamiliar device, tap on it and select Remove from Account.
- Change your Apple ID password immediately to prevent unauthorized access.
- Enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your account.
By regularly checking this section, you can quickly detect and prevent unauthorized access to your Apple ID.
Part 4: How Do I Find Out What Apple ID Is Associated with My iPhone?
If you’re unsure which Apple ID is linked to your iPhone, you can check:
Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
The Apple ID associated with iCloud will be displayed at the top.
Alternatively, check Settings > App Store & iTunes for another associated Apple ID.
If your device was purchased second-hand, check with the original owner to obtain the necessary credentials.
If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID, visit Apple’s iForgot website to recover it.
If you’re locked out of your device due to a forgotten Apple ID, you may need to reset your credentials via Apple’s iForgot service or use PassFab iPhone Unlocker to bypass "This device is already associated with an Apple account" issue.
Conclusion
Seeing "This Device Is Already Linked to Another Apple Account" can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can resolve it quickly. Whether you use Apple’s built-in methods or a professional tool like PassFab iPhone Unlocker, you now have multiple ways to fix this issue. Always ensure your Apple ID and iCloud credentials are properly managed to avoid such problems in the future.

PassFab iPhone Unlock
- Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
- Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
- Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
- Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
- Supports Windows and MacOS
PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.




