Hey everyone, I'm really in a bind and could use some advice here. I got my first iPhone, the 13 Pro, from a family member in January and set up my Apple ID using my phone number back then. A month later, I changed my number but forgot to update it on my Apple ID, which I realize now was a big mistake.
Recently, my old iPhone's battery failed and it won't turn on at all. I just got a new iPhone 17, hoping to log into my Apple ID and either restore from iCloud or start fresh. The problem is, it keeps sending verification codes to my old number, which I can't access anymore. I've tried the account recovery process, but I haven't received any updates yet.
Currently, I can't get past the setup screen on my new phone because it wants me to sign in. I just need to use the phone—I don't care about restoring my data right now. Plus, I can't call Apple support since I don't have a functioning phone (my old one is dead, and my other devices only work over Wi-Fi). I also don't live close to an Apple Store.
I need a working phone for my job, where I work with kids, and to keep in touch with family. So, I'm really stuck with such a nice phone that I can't use. Any suggestions on how to get into my Apple ID without my old number faster, set up the iPhone without signing in right away, or how to contact Apple support without a working phone? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
You could try plugging in your old phone to see if it powers on, even if the battery is dead. Sometimes a good charge can help revive it for a short period, but I know it can be a long shot if it's really damaged.
Does your family member still have the receipt from when they got you the iPhone? That might help with verifying ownership, although it might not directly help with accessing your account.
I doubt it! I’ll have to check, but I don't think they kept it.
That might not assist with the account access anyway, but it’s worth asking just in case.
The only way to get into your account faster is if you can access your old phone number or have another device that's already logged into your Apple ID, like an old iPad or Mac. If that's not possible, you're reliant on account recovery, which can vary from two days to two weeks depending on the information you can provide.
However, you *can* set up your new iPhone without an Apple ID. When you reach the restore screen, select ‘Don’t transfer apps and data’, then choose ‘Don’t have an account’ or similar, and you’ll be able to continue setup without signing in right away. This way, you can at least start using your new phone.
Yeah, the battery actually malfunctioned and it won't charge at all. I’m aware of how to handle faulty devices, thanks!