Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings, enter your passcode and Apple Account password to wipe the device securely.
Erasing an iPhone this way destroys the encryption keys protecting your data, making everything unrecoverable. The process returns the phone to a blank factory state, removing all media, apps, settings, and personal information. It is the standard preparation before selling, trading in, or giving away the device. Following the exact order below avoids common setup problems like a locked Activation Lock or a lost eSIM.
What To Do Before Erasing Your iPhone
A few preparation steps prevent permanent data loss and save time later.
Back Up Your Data
Erasing deletes everything on the device permanently. Save your photos, contacts, and app data using iCloud or a computer. To back up to iCloud, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap Back Up Now. For a local backup, connect the iPhone to a Mac (using Finder) or a PC (using iTunes or the Apple Devices app) and select Back Up.
Charge Your iPhone
The device needs at least 50% battery to start the erase. Apple recommends connecting it to a charger during the whole process to avoid an interruption mid-cycle.
Turn Off Find My iPhone
Find My must be disabled so that Activation Lock releases the phone. Tap Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone and toggle it off. Enter your Apple Account password to confirm.
Erasing All Content And Settings: The Step-by-Step Process
Once the prerequisites are handled, the official Apple procedure takes about ten minutes.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Select Erase All Content and Settings.
- Tap Continue.
- Choose whether to keep or delete your eSIM. Keep it if you plan to transfer the line to a new iPhone; deleting it requires a call to your carrier to reactivate service.
- Enter your device passcode.
- Enter your Apple Account password. This step disables Find My iPhone and removes Activation Lock from the device.
- Wait for the phone to finish. The process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
- The device restarts and shows the “Hello” setup screen. This screen confirms the erasure was successful and the iPhone is ready for a new owner.
Key Specifications & Requirements Before You Start
The table below covers the conditions and expectations for a standard erase.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Supported Models | iPhone 5s through iPhone 16 series (including SE 2nd/3rd Gen) |
| Required iOS Version | 15.2 or later |
| Minimum Battery Level | 50% (plugging into power is recommended) |
| Average Time to Complete | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Active Internet Connection | Required for removing Activation Lock |
| Necessary Credentials | Device passcode and Apple Account password |
| Data Erasure Method | Destruction of encryption keys in Effaceable Storage |
What Happens If You Forget Your Passcode?
When the device is disabled or the passcode is forgotten, the Settings method above is inaccessible. The only option is to use a computer. Connect the iPhone to a Mac or PC, open Finder or Apple Devices (iTunes on older systems), and select Restore iPhone (not Update). Apple’s official restore procedure downloads the latest iOS and erases the device, removing the passcode in the process.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Most problems after a wipe come from skipping one of these steps.
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skipping the backup | Permanent loss of photos, contacts, and app data | Back up to iCloud or a computer before erasing. |
| Forgetting to disable Find My | Activation Lock stays on, blocking new user setup | Turn off Find My in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My. |
| Accidentally erasing the eSIM | Cellular service is cut off until carrier reactivates it | Choose “Keep eSIM” during the process if you plan to use it on a new phone. |
| Starting with a low battery | The device may shut down mid-erase, causing an error | Charge to 50% or keep the device plugged into power. |
Is The Erase Secure Enough For Trade-In Or Sale?
Yes. The “Erase All Content and Settings” option destroys the encryption keys inside the device’s Effaceable Storage, turning all user data into unreadable, randomized noise. A standard single erase passes data-destruction standards for consumer device trade-ins. For extra assurance, owners can repeat the process a second time or use DFU mode to overwrite the system partition, but this is rarely required by trade-in programs. The new owner will see only the activation screen and must sign in with their own Apple Account to set it up.
References & Sources
- Apple Support. “How to factory reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch” Official steps and requirements for erasing all content and settings.