Apple Music allows you to stream music on multiple devices, but sometimes you need to deauthorize a computer. This might be because you've sold your computer, no longer use it, or simply want to manage your authorized devices. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, answering common questions along the way.
Why Deauthorize a Computer from Apple Music?
Before diving into the "how," let's understand the "why." Deauthorizing a computer from Apple Music is crucial for several reasons:
- Security: Removing access to your account from an old or compromised computer enhances your account security.
- Device Limit: Apple Music has a limit on the number of computers you can authorize simultaneously. Deauthorizing an unused computer frees up a slot for a new one.
- Troubleshooting: If you're experiencing playback issues, deauthorizing and reauthorizing a computer can sometimes resolve the problem.
- Account Management: Keeping track of authorized devices helps maintain control over your Apple Music account and ensures only trusted devices have access.
How to Deauthorize a Computer from Apple Music
The process is straightforward, but slightly different depending on whether you have access to the computer or not.
Method 1: Deauthorizing a Computer You Still Have Access To
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Open iTunes or the Music App: If you're using an older version of iTunes, open that. For macOS Catalina and later, or any version of iOS, open the Music app.
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Navigate to Account: In the menu bar at the top of the screen, click on "Account." (In some versions, you might find it under the menu option that displays your Apple ID).
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Select Authorizations: Within the Account menu, you'll find an option called "Authorizations." Select it.
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Choose "Deauthorize This Computer": This option will be presented to you. Click it.
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Confirm Deauthorization: Apple will ask you to confirm your decision. Click "Deauthorize" again to complete the process.
Method 2: Deauthorizing a Computer You No Longer Have Access To
If you no longer have access to the computer, you can remotely deauthorize it via the Apple Music website.
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Sign in to your Apple ID Account: Go to the Apple Music website and sign in using your Apple ID and password.
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Find Account Settings: Locate the "Account" or "Manage Your Apple ID" section.
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Access Devices: Navigate to the section detailing your authorized devices. This may vary depending on how Apple structures their website.
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Locate and Remove the Computer: Find the computer you want to remove from the list of authorized devices and follow the provided instructions to deauthorize it.
How Many Computers Can I Authorize?
Apple allows you to authorize up to five computers simultaneously for Apple Music. Keep this limit in mind when managing your authorized devices.
What Happens After I Deauthorize a Computer?
Once you've deauthorized a computer, you'll no longer be able to stream Apple Music from that device using your account. You can always reauthorize it later if needed.
What if I Forgot My Apple ID Password?
If you've forgotten your Apple ID password, you'll need to reset it before you can deauthorize any computers. Visit Apple's website for password reset instructions.
This comprehensive guide should help you successfully deauthorize your computer from Apple Music. Remember to always prioritize your account security and manage your authorized devices regularly.
