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How to reset or factory reset mobile devices

Here you’ll find how to perform a factory reset or system restoration on devices running Android, iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, KaiOS, Meta Horizon OS, WearOS, Microsoft, or BlackBerry.

What is a factory reset?

A factory reset (also known as a system restore or hard reset) is the process of erasing all data from an electronic device to return it to its original state, just as it was when it left the factory.

This procedure deletes custom settings, installed apps, and user files, leaving only the operating system in its initial configuration.

It’s useful for:

• Fixing software issues.
• Wiping the device before selling, donating, or giving it away.
• Improving the performance of a slow or overloaded device.

Recommendations before resetting your device

• Back up your photos, documents, chats, music, and other important files. You can use a computer, memory card, or cloud services.
• Make sure you know the email account linked to the device, as well as the unlock PIN, pattern, or password.
• Unlink your Google or Apple ID account if you’re planning to sell or give away the device.
• Keep the passwords for your email and social media accounts handy, as you might need them after the reset.

How to reset your device

Use the search tool below to find detailed instructions based on your device’s brand and operating system. You’ll also find tips and helpful tools to guide you through the process step by step.

When is it recommended to perform a factory reset?

A factory reset is useful in various situations. Here are some common cases where it may be the best option:

• The device is slow or frequently freezes.
• Errors appear after a system update.
• The phone has connectivity issues or is unresponsive.
• There are signs of viruses or malicious apps.
• You want to sell, give away, or donate the device.
• You’ve forgotten the unlock pattern or password.
• You want to start fresh with a clean setup.

Difference between a factory reset and a simple restart

It’s important not to confuse a factory reset with a normal restart or power off:

• Simple restart: only turns the device off and on again, without deleting data or settings.
• Factory reset: completely erases all data from the device and returns it to its original factory state.

A restart is used to fix minor issues or refresh processes. A factory reset is a deeper solution for persistent problems or when you want to fully wipe the device.

What data is deleted and what isn’t?

When performing a factory reset, the following is deleted:

• Photos, videos, music, and documents stored in internal memory.
• Downloaded apps and their data.
• Chats, SMS messages, and call logs.
• Custom system settings.

What isn’t deleted (if synced to the cloud):

• Contacts saved to your Google or Apple account.
• Files backed up to Google Drive, iCloud, or similar services.
• Data stored on SD cards (unless you choose to format them).
• Apps you can reinstall from your account.

It’s always recommended to manually check what’s synced and make a full backup before proceeding.

How to reset a locked phone or one without menu access

If you can’t access the system because the device is locked or unresponsive, you can try a forced reset using recovery mode.

Legal and privacy precautions

Before selling, giving away, or disposing of your phone, follow these steps to protect your data:

• Make a full backup of your files and chats.
• Log out of all accounts: Google, Apple ID, social media, email.
• Encrypt your data if your system allows it (optional but recommended).
• Perform a factory reset and erase all personal data.
• Make sure the device is unlinked from your account to avoid activation locks.

This not only protects your personal information but also helps the new owner set up the device without issues.

Instructions for restoring by brand:

If you prefer, you can find instructions for restoring your device by searching for a brand. Click on the brand of your device to see step-by-step instructions on how to do it.

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