It used to be called an Apple ID. Now, Apple has basically rebranded the whole thing to Apple Account with the release of iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia. Honestly, the change is mostly cosmetic, but it matters when you're trying to navigate the menus in 2026. If you're looking to dive into the ecosystem, you've probably realized that you can't really do much—no iMessage, no App Store, no iCloud backups—without this digital passport.
Creating one isn't just about picking a password. It's about setting up a foundation that won't lock you out of your own photos three years from now.
Setting Up Your Apple Account on an iPhone or iPad
Most people do this right when they take the phone out of the box. But if you skipped it during the initial "Hello" setup, don't worry. You can still do it.
Go into your Settings app. Right at the top, you’ll see a prompt that says "Sign in to your iPhone." Tap that. Since you don't have one yet, look for the blue text that says "Don't have an account?" or "Forgot password or don't have an Apple Account?"
From here, it's pretty standard:
- Enter your real name and your birthday. Don't fake the birthday. If you get locked out later, Apple might ask for this to prove you are who you say you are.
- Choose an email address. You can use your current Gmail or Outlook, or you can opt for a free @icloud.com address.
- Create a password. It needs at least eight characters, a number, and an uppercase letter.
Apple is very pushy about Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) now. You basically can't opt out of it for new accounts. You'll need to provide a phone number that can receive SMS codes. This is your "trusted" number. If you ever lose your password, this phone number is your only lifeline, so make sure it's one you plan on keeping.
How to Make an Apple Account Without a Credit Card
This is the big one. People get frustrated because Apple usually asks for a payment method during the signup process. It feels like they're forcing you to give them your credit card info just to download a free app like YouTube or Instagram.
Here is the "secret" to getting the None option:
If you create the account through the main Settings menu, they often demand a card. Instead, try doing it through the App Store. Sign out of any existing accounts, find a free app, and try to download it. When the prompt pops up to sign in, click Create New Apple Account.
When you get to the "Billing" section using this specific method, a "None" option should magically appear next to the credit card icons.
Why the "None" Option Sometimes Vanishes
Sometimes, you won't see "None." This usually happens if:
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- You have an unpaid balance or an overdue subscription.
- You’re in a region where Apple requires a local payment method for identity verification.
- You’re part of a Family Sharing group where the organizer requires a card on file.
The Web Method: For Windows and Android Users
You don't actually need an Apple device to make an account. If you're just getting ready for a future purchase or want to use Apple Music on Android, go to account.apple.com.
Click "Create Your Apple Account" in the top right corner. The process is the same as the mobile version, but it's often faster to type everything out on a physical keyboard. You’ll still need a valid phone number for the 2FA code.
A Quick Note on Mac Setup
On a Mac, you’ll head to the Apple Menu (the little logo in the top left) and choose System Settings. Click "Sign in with your Apple Account" and then "Create Apple Account." It follows the same flow as the iPad, but it’s integrated into the macOS interface.
Security: Beyond Just a Password
In 2026, a password isn't enough. Apple has doubled down on Passkeys. A passkey allows you to sign in using Face ID or your device passcode instead of typing a long string of text. It's way more secure because it’s nearly impossible to "phish" a passkey.
If you’re a journalist, activist, or just someone worried about high-level hacking, look into Security Keys. You can buy a physical FIDO-certified USB or NFC key (like a YubiKey). When you log in, you physically tap the key against your phone. Even if a hacker has your password and your phone number, they can't get in without that physical piece of plastic in your pocket.
Account Recovery Contacts
This is the feature most people ignore until it's too late. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign-In & Security > Account Recovery.
You can add a "Recovery Contact"—a friend or family member who also uses Apple. If you ever get locked out, Apple can send a code to their phone to help you back in. They don't get access to your data; they just act as a human key. It’s much better than the old "Security Questions" (like what was the name of your first pet?) which were way too easy to guess.
Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting
Sometimes the verification email just doesn't show up. Check your Spam folder, obviously, but also make sure you didn't mistype the address. If you’re using a work or school email, their firewall might be blocking Apple’s automated messages. Use a personal email like Gmail if you can.
If the "Continue" button is greyed out, it’s usually because of the password. Apple hates consecutive characters like "111" or "aaa." It’ll also reject passwords that are too similar to your name or email.
Practical Next Steps
Once you've successfully created your account, don't just leave it there.
First, go into your iCloud settings and decide what you actually want to sync. Apple only gives you 5GB for free, which is almost nothing these days. It’ll fill up with photos in a week. Turn off "Photos" if you prefer using Google Photos, or be prepared to pay the few dollars a month for iCloud+.
Second, set up Find My. This is the most valuable part of having an Apple Account. If you lose your phone, you can log in to iCloud.com from any computer and see it on a map or play a sound to find it under the couch cushions.
Finally, if you're planning on sharing apps or storage with family, look into Family Sharing. It lets up to six people share one subscription or storage plan, which saves a ton of money. Just remember that the "Organizer" is the one whose credit card gets charged for everyone's accidental in-app purchases.