(Video) tip: this is how you reset the iPhone to factory settings

We already wrote a tip that will help you if your iPhone no longer turns on. But what if the problems with the device are more persistent? Then a so-called ‘hard reset’ can offer a solution. In this tip, we will show you how to factory reset iPhone.

Tip: Make a backup first

Keep in mind that a factory reset will erase all apps, photos, contacts, and other files. If you still have the option to make a backup of your iPhone, it is wise to do this in advance.

Step-by-step plan for restoring the iPhone to factory settings

With a factory reset you completely empty your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. This can be useful if you want to sell it (make sure that the Activation Lock is turned off) or send it in for a repair. In addition, a hard reset can ensure that a slow Apple device functions smoothly again. Restoring the iPhone to factory settings can be done in two ways. Below we list them.

Method 1

1. Make sure your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch is sufficiently charged (at least 50 percent);
2. Go to ‘Settings> General’;
3. Scroll to ‘Reset’ and tap ‘Erase All Content and Settings’;
4. Confirm your choice and wait for the factory settings to be restored.

Method 2

1. For the second method, use Finder, provided your Mac (Book) is running macOS Catalina. Do you have an older Mac with macOS Mojave? Then you need iTunes. Connect your Apple device to your PC or Mac and open Finder (or iTunes);
2. Click on the relevant device and then go to the ‘General’ tab;
3. From here you can create or restore a backup, but also choose the option ‘Restore iPhone…’;
4. The latter option ensures that your device is completely erased.

This is how you enable iPhone recovery mode

In some cases, you have to enter recovery mode on the iPhone before you can erase the device via Finder (or iTunes). To do this, follow the steps below.

1. iPhone 8 or later: Press the volume up button and then the volume down button. After that, you have to press and hold the side button, then you will see the recovery mode screen;
2. iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus and iPod touch (seventh generation): Press and hold the side button and volume down button at the same time until you see the recovery mode screen;
3. iPhone 6s and older: You will see the recovery mode screen if you press and hold the home button and side button at the same time and wait for a while.