Apple Killing Off ‘Apple ID’ in Favor of New ‘Apple Account’ Branding

In the ever-evolving world of Apple’s software and services, one relic has survived the test of time – the humble Apple ID. That’s about to change, if reports from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and others are to be believed.

Sources indicate Apple plans to fully retire the “Apple ID” nomenclature later this year when it unveils iOS 18, watchOS 11, and other major software updates. In its place? A simpler, more straightforward “Apple Account” branding.

To the observant Apple watcher, this rebranding effort shouldn’t come as a total surprise. Apple has already been softening the transition by referring to payment methods and balances as an “Apple Account.”

There’s even a dedicated “Apple Account” team within Apple’s ranks working on the system underpinning the service. So rebranding the consumer-facing side to match just makes sense.

While the reasoning behind deep-sixing the “Apple ID” name after over two decades isn’t officially known, the “Apple Account” rebrand just sounds…better. More coherent and reflective of the unified way Apple wants you to think about your digital identity across its products and services.

Gone are the days of an “ID” that makes it sound like some rando login. An “Account” denotes something official, purposeful, and robust to manage your Apple life in one place.

So consider this a fond farewell to the antiquated Apple ID. The scientifically-named “Apple Account” is nigh, bringing with it the promise of a more streamlined, consistent Apple experience.

With Apple’s annual developer conference WWDC set for June, all will likely be revealed about the Apple Account transition then. The company will probably take time to explain the rebranding, show off any underlying account system upgrades, and ensure developers are ready for the new nomenclature.

Then, come this fall’s iOS 18 launch, Apple ID will be but a fuzzy memory – a fossil from the Jobsian era replaced by Apple’s clean, modern account solution.