Apple on “Expired” MobileMe User Names

Apple explains in a newly-updated Support document that an expired MobileMe account continues to be a valid Apple ID (AppleConnect login) for use with other Apple services, including iTunes Store purchases, iTunes Store authorization or deauthorization, Apple Store purchases iPhoto purchases, and Apple support pages.

[ADMAR=1]“If you wish to continue using your expired MobileMe/.Mac email address as an Apple ID, you should update the email information for that Apple ID so you can continue to receive email updates related to the account, such as invoices, receipts and other notifications,” Apple’s knowledge base article HT2968 reads. “This is very important if you wish to use your expired MobileMe account for purchase from the Apple Store and/or iTunes Store,” the company notes. “You can change the email address associated with your Apple ID by clicking "Manage account information" at the My Apple ID support page. You can make other updates, such as changes to your password, address and subscription features at the My Apple ID support page as well,” Apple adds.

According to the Mac maker, the changes a user makes to their Apple Account are also recognized by other applications, such as the Apple Store Online, MobileMe, iTunes Store, or iPhoto. “You may be asked to verify your information the next time you use your Apple ID to purchase something in another application,” the company reveals. Support document HT2968 includes some details about iChat accounts, and how they will behave differently when an account expires, depending on when the account was created.

“In general, MobileMe iChat accounts created after July 9th, 2008 will not remain active once a MobileMe account expires,” Apple states. “Older .Mac iChat accounts that were created prior to July 9th, 2008 should remain active regardless of the state of your MobileMe account.” Apple also asks customers to note that user names include the @me.com (or @mac.com) of their MobileMe account, when used as an Apple ID.