Do you want to empty your iPhone, for example because the device is going to change owner? In this article, we’ll show you two ways to get this done.
Emptying an iPhone: this is how you do it
Have you sold your iPhone? Then it is wise to empty the appliance in advance. That way, the buyer can start fresh, and they will not see your data. Moreover, you ensure that the device is no longer attached to your Apple ID.
Before we start emptying your iPhone, it is important that you have made a backup. Do this before completing the steps below, otherwise you may lose important data. Can’t quite figure it out? Then read our article about making a backup. Check? Follow the directions below to empty an iPhone:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap your name;
- Scroll down and tap Log Out;
- Enter your Apple ID password and choose ‘Turn Off’;
- Go back to the general settings and select ‘General’;
- Choose ‘Reset’ and then ‘Erase all content and settings’;
- If necessary, re-enter your Apple ID to remove Find My iPhone;
- Enter the passcode if needed and tap ‘Delete device’.
Your iPhone will now be completely emptied. As soon as all personal settings have been deleted, the device will restart. From now on, the other owner can start to reset the device.
Do you have an Apple Watch? Then you have to disconnect it before doing the steps above. To do this, open the Watch app on your iPhone. Go to the ‘My Watch’ tab and tap on your watch at the top. Select the info button on the right side of the watch you want to delete. Choose ‘Unpair Apple Watch’ and confirm your choice.
Also read: Tip: this is how you reset the iPhone to factory settings
Empty the iPhone if you no longer have the device
Were you too excited and have you already sold your iPhone without following the steps above? Do not panic. You can probably still empty your iPhone relatively easily. The first step, of course, is to enlist the help of the new iPhone owner. Ask the buyer to complete the above steps. After this, change your password for your Apple ID immediately, otherwise the person will have access to your account.
Has your iPhone changed hands against your will? Then try to wipe the device remotely. Log in to iCloud.com (or use the Find My app on another Apple device), select your old iPhone, then select Erase. After the device has been deleted, click on ‘Remove from account’.
Has the thief already turned off your iPhone and can you no longer find the device via the cloud? Then there is no other option than to change your Apple ID password. That way you prevent the new owner from deleting your data in iCloud. Not sure how to change the password? Then check the article below.
Also interesting: Your iPhone no longer turns on: 5 solutions to your problem
This way you get a good price for your device
Are you going to buy a new iPhone and do you want to get rid of the old device? Then read yourself in advance to receive a good price. In our comprehensive guide to selling an iPhone, we’ll cover everything you need to consider. For example, you can trade in your iPhone with Apple. This option will not earn you the most money, but it is nice and easy.