Your Apple ID is getting a new name starting next month. When iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia launch this fall, they’ll use new terminology for your Apple ID. ‘Apple Account’ is the new branding, and it will apply across all Apple products and services.
Other than the name change, there’s no functional change coming to Apple IDs. Just like before, an Apple Account will be the specific account you use to sign in to various Apple services. The current Apple ID site reads, “An Apple ID is the personal account you use to access Apple services like the App Store, iCloud, Messages, the Apple Online Store, FaceTime, and more. It includes the information you use to sign in, as well as all the contact, payment, and security details that you’ll use across Apple services.”
This rebranding will likely cause some confusion in its early days. That’s to be expected for a notable name change like this. Just know that if you see the term ‘Apple Account’ used in iOS 18 or other future Apple documentation, it’s referring to what used to be Apple ID. Similarly, whenever you encounter outdated references to ‘Apple ID,’ you can rightfully substitute the term ‘Apple Account.’
Apple IDs are such an important part of accessing various highly sensitive and secure data related to your digital life. This is why it’s important to be clear on the terminology. Phishing schemes, for example, may seek to capitalize on users’ confusion during this change.
