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LordOswald
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Confused what to do with 2 phones in different regions

I have a primary account in Australia and 2 phones, an Australian mobile and a Uk mobile. These sync for all messages, emails, FaceTime etc

I’ve now moved to the UK permanently and need to be able to access items which are region restricted to the UK.

I am looking at either setting up a new Apple account or just changing regions. I’m not the world’s best person with technology and concerned about losing information or access to banking apps etc

Ive been reading through comments and advice about how to do either of the above but still uncertain that I’m not going to cause myself issues.

Is it best to unsync the phones before doing anything ? Should I keep my iCloud untouched as it is paid from an Australian account and I can easily continue to do so ?

If I make a new UK account, do I need to wipe the phone and set up again, and could it then be joined into a family sharing iCloud with my other account ?

Im a bit out of my depth but really wanting to try to do it myself!!

help!


Posted on Oct 30, 2026 7:27 AM

3 replies

WheelieNick
User level: Level 9 (74,110 points)

Nov 5, 2026 6:11 AM in response to LordOswald

Here is exactly how to set up your phones so you can download UK apps while keeping your Australian data safe.


Step 1: Create a new UK Apple Account


  1. On a computer or using a web browser on your phone, go to apple.com.
  2. Click Create Your Apple ID.
  3. Select United Kingdom as your country/region.
  4. Use a different email address than your Australian account (a standard Gmail or Outlook address works perfectly).

  6. You can use your UK mobile number for the verification step.


Step 2: Log into the UK App Store (On your UK Phone)

You only need to do this on the phone where you want the UK apps (like UK banking, NHS, or local transport apps).

  1. Open the App Store app.
  2. Tap your profile picture or icon in the top right corner.
  3. Scroll all the way to the bottom and tap Sign Out. (Don't worry, this only signs you out of the shop, not your iCloud!).
  4. Scroll back to the top and sign in with your new UK Apple Account.

Now, you can search for and download any UK-restricted banking apps.

LordOswald Author
User level: Level 1 (4 points)

Nov 5, 2026 6:48 AM in response to WheelieNick

Thanks so much Wheelie Nick. That is very reassuring as it was the eventual plan of action I have written on my pad. I just have so little confidence in my abilities and don’t want to wreck things !

fingers crossed 🙂

Limnos
User level: Level 10 (462,771 points)

Nov 5, 2026 7:51 AM in response to LordOswald

If it's just your banking apps you're concerned about, I know that both my banks have web access and I don't bother with their apps.

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256385922