FOR residents & businesses
How to recycle Apple devices for free
Apple devices are unable to be recycled if they are not first factory reset, and cleared of iCloud locks. A locked device is just a pretty electronic paperweight that can only be used for screen replacements.
If an Apple device is reset and unlocked before recycling, the battery can be replaced and given years of additional life for a new user with zero concerns of data privacy. Follow the steps below to prepare your Apple devices for recycling.
Apple Recycling Happiness Scale (A+)
Step 1: Backup Your Device
Before proceeding, ensure you have a backup of your device to avoid losing any important information.
For iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch: Use iCloud or your computer to back up your device. Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup (make sure it’s turned on) and tap "Back Up Now."
For Mac: Use Time Machine or another backup method to save a copy of all your files, applications, and settings.
Step 2: Sign Out of iCloud, iTunes, and App Store
On Your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch:
Go to Settings > [your name].
Scroll down and tap "Sign Out."
Enter your Apple ID password and tap "Turn Off."
Choose what data, if any, you want to keep a copy of on your device.
Tap "Sign Out" again to confirm.
On Your Mac:
Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click "Apple ID."
Select "Overview" in the sidebar, then click "Sign Out."
Step 3: Erase Your Device
Erasing your device will delete all of your information, remove any passwords, and most importantly: turn off iCloud Lock.
On Your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch:
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [Device].
Tap "Erase All Content and Settings."
If asked for your device passcode or Apple ID password, enter it. Then tap "Erase" [device].
On Your Mac:
Choose Apple menu > System Preferences, then click "Erase All Content and Settings."
Follow the onscreen instructions.
Step 4: Remove Your Device from Your Apple ID Account
To ensure the device is no longer linked to your Apple ID:
Visit appleid.apple.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
Under the "Devices" section, select the device you are recycling.
Click "Remove from account" and confirm.
