If you see a Could Not Create Apple ID message
If you see a Could Not Create Apple ID message, it means that you have exceeded the number of new Apple IDs you can set up with iCloud on a single device in one year.
Why did you see this message?
You may see this message when creating a new Apple ID on an iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac, especially if you're using a refurbished or second-hand device or if you've created multiple Apple IDs on that device.
What should you do?
If you have another iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac, you can try to create your new Apple ID on that device. Create your Apple ID, then follow the on-screen steps to start using iCloud. Or, if you already have an Apple ID set up with iCloud, sign in with that Apple ID instead. You don't need to create a new Apple ID if you already have one.
You also don't need to create a new Apple ID if you:
If you still need to create a new Apple ID on your device, contact Apple Support for help.
If you see a Could Not Set Up iCloud message
If you see a Could Not Set Up iCloud message, it means that you have exceeded the number of Apple IDs you can set up with iCloud on a single device in one year.
Why did I see this message?
You may see this message when:
- Signing in with an Apple ID you already created on the web, an Apple TV or a third-party device, but have not yet set up with iCloud
- Signing in with an Apple ID that has web-only access to iCloud
What should you do?
If you have another iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac, you can try setting up iCloud with your Apple ID on that device. Sign in with your Apple ID, then follow the on-screen steps to start using iCloud.
Or, if you already have an Apple ID set up with iCloud, sign in with that Apple ID instead.
If you still need to set up iCloud with this Apple ID, contact Apple Support for help.
Your Apple ID is the account you use to access Apple services such as the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime and more. You sign in to all Apple services with this single Apple ID and password.