How to use ‘Find my iPhone’ to locate your Apple device

1. Select the “Find My iPhone” app on an iOS device or iCloud on a Mac.

You can download the app from the App Store if you don’t already have the app.

Enter your login credentials to enter the app and a map will be displayed. It may default to a map of Apple in Cupertino, or it may display a map showing you the location of your phone.

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2. Click on the Devices button in the top left corner.

All your devices linked to ‘Find My iPhone’ will be displayed in a list. Select the device you wish to locate, and Find My iPhone will search for your device’s location.
If the phone has been turned off or the battery has run out, the app will show you the last known location, but will not be able to show you the current address.

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3. Play sound.

Once your device is selected, you can select ‘Play Sound’ which will enable your device to make a loud sound for two minutes in order to be found. This will work even if your iPhone is on silent mode but is extremely handy if your phone has slipped between the cushions, or left in your jacket as you can easily follow the sound and locate.

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4. Track your phone.

You can use this method if your device has been updated to iOS 6 or later. First you will need to enter an unlock code for your phone. Make sure this number is random and not connected to you in any way.
You may also enter a message and contact phone number which will be displayed on the phone. Therefore if it is lost rather than stolen, you are more likely to have it returned safely.
If your iPhone is online, it will immediately be locked, and you will be able to see it’s current location displayed as well as any changes in location. If your phone is offline, it will lock immediately if it’s powered up, you’ll be notified via email, and you’ll be able to track your phone’s position.

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5. Erase all your data.

You can erase all data on your phone, which is a great feature if you store sensitive data on your phone. After you have erased all data however, you will not be able to use Find My iPhone to locate your phone after this happens. Should you later find your phone, you can easily restore your data through iTunes backup.

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