How to Factory Reset an iPhone

Erase everything on an iPhone the right way before selling, trading in, or giving it away.

1. Back up first if you want to keep anything

   A factory reset is permanent. Run an iCloud backup (Settings > your name > iCloud > Back Up Now) so you can restore to a new phone later.

2. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

   Scroll to the bottom of General to find it. This screen handles both moving to a new phone and wiping this one.

3. Tap "Erase All Content and Settings"

   This option signs you out of iCloud and removes Activation Lock as part of the wipe — important if you're selling, or the next owner can't set it up. Don't pull the SIM or smash the phone instead; that leaves your account attached.

4. Enter your passcode and Apple Account password to confirm

   You'll need your Apple Account password to turn off Find My / Activation Lock. The phone reboots to the white "Hello" setup screen when it's done — that's how you know it's fully erased.