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Can I use a Macbook without an Apple ID?

I have an old Macbook running El Capitan that works fine. I would like to give it to my sister to use but she is mentally challenged and creating an Apple ID, logging in, syncing devices, etc. would confuse her. If I remove my Apple ID from it, can she use it normally without getting prompts to enter her Apple ID, backup to iCloud, etc.? She can use a computer, but anything beyond basic tasks is beyond her ability.

MacBook Pro, OS X 10.11

Posted on Nov 14, 2020 4:52 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Nov 22, 2020 12:22 PM

Hi Relztrah,


It sounds like you're trying to set up your Mac for your sister and we can help.


You can absolutely use your Mac without an Apple ID signed in. Some services like the ones you've described will not work, and you won't be able to install apps from the App Store, but this might be what you're interested in having set up.


We recommend following the steps here to get your Mac wiped to give away:

What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac - Apple Support


You can skip past the steps for Apple ID during the Setup Assistant.


Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Nov 22, 2020 12:22 PM in response to Relztrah

Hi Relztrah,


It sounds like you're trying to set up your Mac for your sister and we can help.


You can absolutely use your Mac without an Apple ID signed in. Some services like the ones you've described will not work, and you won't be able to install apps from the App Store, but this might be what you're interested in having set up.


We recommend following the steps here to get your Mac wiped to give away:

What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your Mac - Apple Support


You can skip past the steps for Apple ID during the Setup Assistant.


Thanks for using the Apple Support Communities.

Can I use a Macbook without an Apple ID?

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