How to Remove a Device from Apple Business Manager (ABM)

In some cases, you may need to remove a device from ABM – Here is how you do it.

Apple Business Manager (ABM) is a platform that allows organizations to manage the deployment and configuration of Apple devices at scale.
​

🔧 Steps to Remove a Device

To disconnect a device from ABM, follow these steps:

1. Log in to ABM using an account with admin privileges.
2. Navigate to the Devices section.
3. Locate the device using its serial number or another identifier.
4. Choose one of the following options:
   • Remove from MDM Server – Stops managing the device via your Mobile Device Management (MDM) system, but the device remains in ABM. This allows it to be reassigned to a different MDM server later.
   • Release Device – Permanently removes the device from ABM.
5. Confirm the action when prompted.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Release Device is a permanent action. Once a device is released, it cannot be re-added to ABM through automated device enrollment.
• Make sure the device is erased and no longer in use before releasing it. Releasing a device that’s still in use can cause activation or setup issues for the end user.

✅ Best Practices

• Use Remove from MDM Server when you plan to reassign or redeploy the device within your organization.
• Use Release Device only when the device is being sold, retired, or permanently removed from your inventory.
• Always double-check the device serial number before performing these actions to avoid mistakes.