iPhone factory Reset Guide Updated for 2025
Apple has streamlined the process for restoring iPhones to factory settings, a crucial step for users selling devices, troubleshooting persistent issues, or preparing for a software update. the update, reflecting changes in iOS and data security protocols, ensures a secure and complete data wipe, protecting personal details and optimizing device performance. This guide details the latest methods for resetting your iPhone as of 2025.
Factory resetting an iPhone erases all personal data – photos, contacts, apps, and settings – returning the device to its original, out-of-box state. This is vital before resale to protect your privacy, often necessary to resolve software glitches unresponsive to typical fixes, and a recommended step before major iOS updates to prevent compatibility conflicts. Failing to properly reset can leave sensitive data vulnerable or cause unforeseen software problems.
Before You Begin: Essential Preparations
Prior to initiating a factory reset, several preparatory steps are critical:
* Back Up Your Data: Utilize iCloud Backup or a computer backup via Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (older macOS versions/Windows). This safeguards your data against permanent loss.
* Disable Find My: Navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My and toggle off Find My iPhone. You may need to enter your Apple ID password.
* Sign Out of iCloud, iTunes & App Store: Go to Settings > [Your Name] and select Sign Out.You’ll be prompted to enter your Apple ID password.Also, sign out of the iTunes & App Store in Settings > Media & Purchases.
* Transfer or Deregister eSIM: If your iPhone uses an eSIM, transfer it to a new device or deregister it with your carrier. Failing to do so may prevent the new user from accessing cellular service.
* Turn Off security Features: Disable passcode, Touch ID, or Face ID under settings > Face ID & Passcode or Settings > Touch ID & Passcode.
Methods for Resetting Your iPhone in 2025
Apple offers two primary methods for factory resetting your iPhone:
1. Reset via settings App:
* Open the settings app.
* Tap General.
* Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
* Tap Erase all Content and Settings.
* Follow the on-screen prompts, entering your passcode if requested, and confirming the reset.
2. Reset via Recovery Mode:
This method is useful if your iPhone is unresponsive or you cannot access the Settings app. The process varies slightly depending on your iPhone model:
* iPhone 8 or later (including iPhone SE 2nd/3rd generation): Press and quickly release the Volume Up button. press and quickly release the Volume Down button. Then, press and hold the Side button untill the Apple logo appears.
* iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume Down button and the Side button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
* iPhone 6s or earlier (including iPhone SE 1st generation): Press and hold both the Home button and the Side button simultaneously until the Apple logo appears.
Once in Recovery Mode,connect your iPhone to a computer. Open Finder or iTunes and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your iPhone to factory settings.
Post-Reset Verification
After the reset process completes,your iPhone will restart and display the initial setup screen. Verify that all personal data has been removed before selling or giving away the device.
Source & Image Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5qVCwLMv4w (Daniel About tech)
Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides
