How to restore a device to factory settingsUpdated 2 days ago
Restoring factory settings directly on your iPhone or Android is easy — just follow the steps from our in-house tech experts.
Back up your data on your iPhone
Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Transfer or Reset [Device]" > "Erase All Content and Settings".
- You'll be asked to enter your passcode or Apple ID password, and then confirm that you wish to delete your device.
- Wait for your device to erase.
Restore your iPhone factory settings from your Mac
First, back up your data. Then, follow these steps:
- Step 1. If you have a Mac with macOS Catalina or later, open the Finder app. If your Mac has macOS Mojave or earlier, or your device is a different PC, open the iTunes app.
- Step 2. Connect your smartphone to your computer.
- Step 3. If you see a pop-up message that asks for a passcode or says “Trust This Computer,” follow the instructions on the screen.
- Step 4. Select your smartphone when it shows on your computer or laptop.
- Step 5. Select “Restore [device]” — if you’re still logged in to "Find My", make sure that you sign out first.
- Step 6. Select “Restore” once more to confirm.
- Step 7. Your computer will erase your phone and install the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or iPod software.
- Step 8. After your phone is restored to factory settings, it’ll automatically restart.
Android devices
First, back up your data by going to "Settings" > "Google" > "Backup". (You may also see "Settings" > "Backup".) If you don’t see either, contact the manufacturer for help.
To force restart:
- Go to "Settings" > “Factory Data Reset”.
- Enter your security credentials, if prompted.
- Select “Delete all” and follow the instructions to reset your device.