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How to Factory Reset iPhone

Learn how to factory reset an iPhone safely with backup, sign-out checks, erase steps, eSIM warning, troubleshooting, mistakes, and FAQs.

TechnologyEdited by Pramod Tiwari
2 min read

Quick Answer

To factory reset an iPhone, back it up, confirm your Apple Account password, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings, follow the prompts, choose what to do with any eSIM, and wait for the iPhone to restart at the setup screen.

What You Need

  • iPhone passcode
  • Apple Account password
  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Recent iCloud or computer backup
  • Charger
  • Carrier details if using eSIM

Safety Precautions

  • A factory reset erases your personal data from the iPhone.
  • Back up important photos, messages, files, and app data first.
  • If you use eSIM, decide whether to keep or erase it before confirming.
  • Turn off activation locks only when you are selling or transferring the phone to someone else.
  • Do not reset a device you do not own or have permission to erase.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Back up the iPhone

    Use iCloud or a computer backup so you can restore your data later.

  2. Step 2

    Check Apple Account access

    Make sure you know the Apple Account password and device passcode.

  3. Step 3

    Unpair devices if selling

    Unpair Apple Watch and sign out of services if you are transferring ownership.

  4. Step 4

    Open reset settings

    Go to Settings, General, then Transfer or Reset iPhone.

  5. Step 5

    Choose erase

    Tap Erase All Content and Settings and review what will be removed.

  6. Step 6

    Confirm prompts

    Enter the passcode and Apple Account password if requested.

  7. Step 7

    Wait for setup screen

    Keep the phone powered until it erases and restarts to the welcome screen.

Practical Example

Example: Before selling your iPhone, you make an iCloud backup, unpair your Apple Watch, go to Transfer or Reset iPhone, erase all content, and confirm the buyer sees the setup screen.

Common Mistakes

  • Resetting without backup
  • Forgetting Apple Account password
  • Erasing eSIM unintentionally
  • Stopping midway due to low battery
  • Selling a phone still linked to your account
  • Assuming reset fixes hardware problems

Troubleshooting

Forgot passcode

Use Apple recovery options or a computer erase process; you may need your Apple Account credentials.

Erase option fails

Charge the phone, connect Wi-Fi, update iOS if possible, and retry.

Activation Lock appears

Sign in with the Apple Account previously linked to the device or remove it from your account.

You erased eSIM by mistake

Contact your carrier to reactivate the cellular plan.

FAQs

Does factory reset delete everything?

It erases personal content and settings from the iPhone. Keep a backup if you need your data later.

Should I remove eSIM before selling?

Usually yes for transfer, but follow your carrier and Apple prompts carefully.

Can I reset without Apple Account password?

Some erase steps may require it, especially when Find My or Activation Lock is involved.

How long does an iPhone reset take?

Often several minutes, but it depends on model, storage, and connection.

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