Apple seems to be preparing for a significant rebranding of the popular Apple ID by considering a name change to “Apple Account.” Sources close to Apple’s developments have informed MacRumors that Apple is exploring the possibility of introducing the new name “Apple Account” as early as this year.
An Apple ID serves as an account enabling Apple users to access services like iCloud and the App Store. The creation and login option for an Apple ID are available on all Apple platforms and have been accessible to users for more than a decade. Through an Apple ID, users can buy apps and music, synchronize data wirelessly using iCloud across devices, and make purchases on Apple’s online store, among other functions.
The transition from Apple ID to Apple Account is anticipated to take place later in 2024, likely coinciding with the launch of iOS 18 (Codename Crystal) and macOS 15 (Codename Glow). System applications will be updated to reflect this change, as well as Apple’s website, provided the company opts to implement the new branding.
While references to “Apple Account” can be spotted on Apple’s website, including in phrases like “Apple Account Balance,” our informants have indicated that Apple plans to substitute all existing mentions of “Apple ID” with “Apple Account” as part of a rebranding effort.
The reason behind Apple’s contemplation of this change remains unclear at present. It’s worth noting that Apple often has several marketing names prepared ahead of the launch of new services or products. For example, with the operating system for the recently unveiled Vision Pro headset, Apple internally tested three different names – realityOS, xrOS, and visionOS. This suggests that the introduction of the Apple Account branding may not materialize for various reasons.
