The easiest solution is usually to use Apple’s Find My website or another Apple device. If the broken iPhone cannot be accessed, you may be able to remove it from your account through Apple’s supported process, depending on your goal. Simply removing a device from your visible device list does not always disable Activation Lock.
Which method should you use?
| Condition of your iPhone | Best option |
|---|---|
| Screen works and you can unlock it | Turn off Find My in Settings |
| Screen is broken, but the phone works | Use another Apple device or try a supported external display or repair |
| Phone won’t turn on | Check Find My or iCloud options from another device |
| Selling or giving away the phone | Follow Apple’s erase and account-removal process |
| Trading in or sending it for repair | Check the provider’s specific Find My requirements |
Method 1: Turn Off Find My Through iCloud.com
This is often the best option if your iPhone’s screen is broken or you cannot operate it.
Step 1: Open Find Devices
On a computer or another phone, visit iCloud.com/find and sign in with the Apple Account linked to your broken iPhone.
Step 2: Select your iPhone
Open the device list and select the broken iPhone you want to manage.
Step 3: Check the available options
Follow the available instructions to prepare the device for repair or trade-in, or erase and remove it if you need to disable Activation Lock. The options depend on the device’s status.
Important: Erasing your iPhone deletes its data. Removing Activation Lock is a separate step, and the available process depends on whether the phone is online or offline. Read Apple’s official instructions for removing a device from Find My before proceeding.
Method 2: Use Another Apple Device
If you have another iPhone or iPad signed in to your Apple Account:
Open the Find My app.
Tap Devices.
Select your broken iPhone.
Review the available options for erasing or removing the device.
If you need to remove Activation Lock, follow Apple’s specific instructions. Simply removing an offline phone from the device list may not permanently disable Activation Lock.
Method 3: If the Phone Still Works but the Screen Is Broken
If the iPhone turns on but the screen does not respond, you may need to repair the display or use a compatible external input or display setup if your situation supports it. Once you can access Settings, go to:
Settings → your name → Find My → Find My iPhone → Turn Off
You will generally need your Apple Account password to disable Find My.
Tell me what is wrong with your iPhone
I can give you the safest exact steps for your situation.