If you need to erase your iPhone and return it to factory settings, Apple provides two ways to do it. In an official Apple Support video, the company explains how to reset an iPhone directly from the device or restore it using a Mac or PC.
Before you start
Make sure you have a recent iCloud backup or a backup saved on your computer. A factory reset erases all content and settings from your iPhone.
You should also know your Apple Account details. If you plan to use a computer, have a compatible cable ready to connect your iPhone.
Method 1: Erase Your iPhone in Settings
- In Settings, tap General, scroll down, then tap Transfer or Reset iPhone. Tap Erase All Content and Settings, then tap Continue.
- If you have an eSIM, choose whether to delete it or keep it. Delete it if you sold, traded in, or gave away the device or moved your plan elsewhere; note you will need to contact your carrier to reactivate your cellular plan.
- Enter your iPhone passcode when prompted. If Screen Time is enabled, you may also need to enter your Screen Time passcode.
- Wait for your backup to finish if your iPhone is completing one before the reset.
- Enter your Apple Account password, then tap Done on the keyboard.
- If Stolen Device Protection is enabled, authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID.
- Wait while your iPhone erases its data and resets to factory settings. When the process is finished, the Hello screen will appear.
Method 2: Erase Your iPhone Using a Mac or PC
- Temporarily turn off Stolen Device Protection in Face ID & Passcode settings. Apple notes that this may require a one-hour security delay.
- Turn off Find My by going to Settings > your name > Find My > Find My iPhone. Turn off Find My iPhone and enter your Apple Account password.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a compatible cable.
- Use Finder on macOS Catalina or later. On a PC, use the Apple Devices app. Use iTunes if the PC does not have Apple Devices or if the Mac is running macOS Mojave or earlier.
- Approve any Allow or Trust prompts on your computer and iPhone, then enter your iPhone passcode if requested.
- Select your iPhone and click Restore iPhone.
- Choose Back Up if you still need a computer backup, or Don’t Back Up to continue.
- Click Restore, follow the remaining prompts, and agree to Apple’s terms if you accept them.
- Your computer will install the latest version of iOS. Once the restore is complete, the Hello screen will appear and you can begin setting up the iPhone again.
