If your iPhone is slow, full of apps you don't use, or you're thinking of selling it or trading it in, perhaps what you're looking for is to make the iPhone look like it was just taken out of the boxDoing it right isn't just about pressing a button: you have to protect your data, keep what matters to you, and avoid inconvenient locks for the next owner.
Throughout this guide you will see, step by step, how restore an iPhone and make it like new Without losing your photos, notes, contacts, or Health app data, how to prepare your Apple Watch, what types of resets exist, and what to do if you just want to clear it of apps and "junk" but continue using it yourself.
Before restoring your iPhone: backups and planning
Before deleting anything, the first thing to do is make sure that You won't lose important informationA factory reset erases everything: photos, videos, apps, accounts, settings, and local content. If you don't make a backup beforehand, there's no going back.
Currently you have two main and completely safe ways to back up your iPhone: using iCloud (Apple's cloud) or via a computer, either a Mac with Finder or a PC with iTunes.
How to back up to iCloud
The most convenient option for most users is to use iCloud, since You don't need to connect any cables or a computer. and restoring it later is very simple on a new iPhone.
To create a backup in iCloud:
- Opens Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name (your Apple ID) at the top.
- Sign in iCloud > Copy to iCloud.
- Activate the iCloud backup option if it wasn't already.
- Balance “Make a copy now” and wait for it to finish.
This way you'll have a recent copy with your settings, app data, messages, photos (if you use iCloud Photos), notes, contacts, and other informationIf you're running low on cloud storage, you can check which apps are using storage and disable those that don't need backups, or free up space in iCloud by deleting old files or backups.
How to back up on Mac or PC
If you prefer to keep a local copy or don't have enough space in iCloud, you can back up your iPhone to a computerOn Mac it's done from Finder (in recent versions of macOS) and on Windows through iTunes.
The general steps are:
- Connect the iPhone to the computer with the USB cable.
- If the trust message appears, tap on "Trust this computer" both on the iPhone and on the computer.
- On Mac, open Finder and select your iPhone in the sidebar (Locations section). On Windows, open iTunes and click on the iPhone icon.
- On the main or “General” tab, select the option to make a copy on the computerFor greater protection, enable encrypted backup.
- Click on “Make a copy now” and wait for it to finish.
The advantage of a local backup is that it's usually faster to restore and doesn't depend on your internet connection, plus you can save a complete version of the device with more control over storage.
Sensitive data: Health, Apple Watch, and specific apps
If you're particularly worried about not losing years of data from the Health app (weight, training, medical records, etc.), it is important to know that this data is included in the backups, but with nuances:
- En iCloudIf you have Health sync enabled, your data is stored in the cloud in end-to-end encrypted form.
- To include Health and Activity data on your computer, you need a local copy. encrypted copyIf the copy is not encrypted, that data is not saved.
With the Apple Watch, you should keep in mind that, when unpair the watch from the iPhoneA backup of your Watch is automatically created on your phone. Then, when you set up your watch again (on the same or another iPhone), you can restore from that backup and keep your watch faces, settings, and most associated data.
Sign out of iCloud and turn off "Find My iPhone"
One critical step, which many people overlook, is Sign out of iCloud and turn off the feature Search my Iphone before erasing the device. This prevents the well-known Activation Lock that would prevent the new owner from using the iPhone.
If you erase the phone without signing out of your Apple ID, the iPhone will remain associated with your account, and when someone tries to set it up, It will ask for your username and password. in order to activate it. That's a huge problem if you've sold it or traded it in as part of a renewal program.
To log out properly:
- Opens Settings.
- Tap on your name (Apple ID).
- Scroll to the bottom and press "Sign off".
- Enter your Apple ID password to deactivate Search my Iphone and confirm.
Once done, the device will be activation lock free and the new owner will be able to log in with their own Apple ID without any problems.
Manage SIM or eSIM before erasing iPhone
Another important point when preparing your iPhone, especially if you're going to replace it with another model, is what to do with your mobile lineTwo things influence this: whether you use a physical SIM or an eSIM, and whether you're going to get another iPhone right after.
What to do if you use a physical SIM
In the case of a traditional SIM card, there's not much mystery to it: you just have to Remove the SIM card before handing over or selling the mobile phone.Do not leave your card in the device, because they could use your line or receive your verification SMS messages.
Then you just need to put the SIM in your new phone and you The number will continue to function normally., without the need for any paperwork with the operator.
How to transfer an eSIM to a new iPhone
If your operator has activated an eSIM for you, before formatting it, it's advisable to... migrate it to the new iPhoneMany operators already offer the eSIM Quick Transfer feature, which saves you from having to call them or go to a physical store.
To use this fast transfer:
- Make sure you are logged in with the same Apple account on both iPhones.
- On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
- Select the mobile plan you want to transfer from another iPhone. If you don't see anything, tap “Transfer from a nearby iPhone”.
- Both devices must have iOS 16 or later.
- Follow the instructions on your old iPhone to confirm the transfer: tap Transfer or enter the code shown on your new iPhone.
- Wait for the plan to activate on the new device. At that point, the eSIM on the old iPhone will be deactivated.
- If your carrier displays a message to complete the setup, tap it and follow the process on their website.
If you encounter any issues during the process or your company does not support fast transfers, the best course of action is Contact your carrier before erasing your iPhone. so they can tell you how to use your eSIM.
Different ways to restart and restore an iPhone
When we talk about "restoring," we don't always mean completely erasing the content. iOS offers three levels of reset which should be clearly distinguished before embarking on the most radical option.
Normal restart: turn off and on
The easiest way to "refresh" your iPhone is turning it off and on againIt's useful if your phone is acting strangely, an app is freezing, or you notice other odd but minor behavior.
According to your model, it's done like this:
- On iPhone X or later: Press and hold the side button along with one of the volume buttons until the power off slider appears. Slide to power off.
- In previous models, it was enough to press and hold the lock button until you see the power-off slider.
- You can also go to Settings> General and tap on “Turn Off”.
Then wait about 30 seconds with the phone completely off, and turn it back on while holding down the side button. This simple restart does not delete any dataJust restart the system.
Force restart: when your iPhone is unresponsive
If the screen freezes, the touchscreen becomes unresponsive, or the iPhone simply freezes, you'll need a forced restartIt remains secure and does not erase your information, but it forces the device to shut down and restart.
The procedure depends on the model:
- iPhone X, XS, XR, 11, 12, 13 and later: Press and quickly release the volume up button, then press and release the volume down button, and then hold down the side button until you see the Apple logo.
- iPhone 7 and 7 Plus: Press and hold both the volume down button and the power/sleep button until the Apple logo appears.
- iPhone 6s and iPhone SE (1st gen): Press and hold the home button and the power/sleep button simultaneously until you see the logo.
Once it turns back on, you will have completed a forced restart without data loss.
Factory reset: erase all content
The most drastic option is a factory reset, which returns the iPhone to its original state, just like when you first bought it. All settings are removed. all apps, photos, files, settings, accounts, and personal content.
This option is appropriate when you want sell, give away or hand over the iPhoneOr if you prefer to start from scratch because your device is full of apps and settings that you no longer want to review.
How to restore your iPhone from the device itself
Once you've made a backup and closed iCloud (including Find My iPhone), you can format your iPhone directly from the system settingsIt is a very guided process and usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes depending on the model and storage.
To restore it to factory settings from the mobile phone itself:
- Opens Settings on the iPhone.
- Go to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap on “Erase content and settings” (Don't confuse this with the various "Reset" options, which only adjust specific parts).
- Press on Continue when the system shows you what will be deleted.
- Enter your passcode (and, if prompted, your Apple ID password) to confirm.
At that moment, the iPhone will begin erasing all data and restoring. When finished, the iOS welcome screen will appear, allowing you to set up the device as new or from a backup. At this point, There should be no trace left of your personal information.
Restore your iPhone from a Mac or PC
Another way to restore the iPhone to its factory settings is use a computerThis method is useful if the device is malfunctioning, if you need to completely reinstall iOS, or if you want to manage backups from your computer.
To restore from a Mac (Finder) or a PC (iTunes):
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a cable.
- Confirm trust between devices when prompted.
- On Mac, open Finder and select your iPhone in the sidebar, in the “Locations” section. On Windows, open iTunes and click on the iPhone icon.
- On the main or “General” tab, click on "Restore iPhone".
- If Find My iPhone is still active, the system will ask you Deactivate it by entering your Apple ID..
- Confirm the process and wait for the latest version of iOS to download (if necessary) and install.
The iPhone will restart several times during the process. When it's finished, you'll see the initial setup screen and you'll be able to choose between setting it up as new or restoring from a backup (from your own computer or from iCloud).
I just want to clean up apps and space, do I have to format?
Your goal might not be to sell the phone, but empty it of unnecessary apps and data to gain space and return to a kind of "clean state" without losing your basic data (photos, contacts, messages, Health...).
In that case, a full format is a solution, but perhaps more drastic than you need. Before reaching that point, you can:
- Check in Settings > General > iPhone Storage which apps take up the most space and delete the ones you don't use.
- Empty stored data in applications like WhatsApp (group files, old videos and photos) from your own storage management.
- Disable in WhatsApp and other apps the automatic download of photos and videos so that the reel doesn't get too full.
- Transfer your largest photos and videos to a computer or external storage.
These measures allow you to gain some leeway without having to delete everything. But let's be realistic: over time, if your iPhone has little storage capacityYou'll run into the same problem again. That's where it comes in to consider whether the iPhone is a key work or personal tool and whether it's worth it. make the leap to a model with more capacity.
Prepare your iPhone for sale or trade-in
If your intention is to change models and make some extra money, it's best to keep the device. Ready for its new ownerThis is not only a matter of security, it can also increase resale value.
The ordered steps would be:
- Make full backup (iCloud or local).
- Transfer data to your new iPhone (via Quick Start, iCloud, or copy to your computer) if you already have it.
- Sign out of iCloud and turn off Find My iPhone.
- Remove the physical SIM or transfer the eSIM.
- Delete content and settings to return it to factory settings.
- Clean the device with a microfiber cloth and Gather original box and accessories (cable, adapters, etc.).
Handing in your iPhone in its original packaging and in good visual condition can make all the difference when it comes to sell it on your own or through a Trade In program, as it generates more confidence and, in some cases, increases the valuation.
Frequently asked questions about restoring an iPhone
When we talk about restorations and deletions, the same recurring questions always come up. Here are the most common ones with clear answers so you don't have to keep searching.
Is it mandatory to sign out of iCloud before selling the iPhone?
Yes. If you don't, the phone will remain associated with your Apple ID and the new user. You will not be able to activate it due to Activation LockIt is one of the most important steps in the whole process.
Can I erase my iPhone without backing it up?
You can, but you'll lose everything. If you're absolutely sure that You don't need photos, notes, messages, or app dataGo ahead. In practice, it's much more sensible to invest a few minutes in making a copy in case you change your mind.
What happens if I sell the iPhone with the SIM card still in it?
Leaving your SIM card in your phone is a very bad idea: they could Use your line, receive calls and SMSor even try to access your accounts using verification codes. Always remove the SIM card before handing over the phone.
How long does it take to erase an iPhone?
It depends on the model and how much storage it uses, but in most cases It usually takes between 5 and 15 minutes in completing the erase and leaving you on the initial setup screen.
Does my Apple Watch reset itself when I erase my iPhone?
Not exactly. If you're going to change your iPhone, the best thing to do is unpair the Apple Watch From the Watch app on your current iPhone. This process creates a backup of your watch that you can then restore to your new device. A factory reset of your iPhone doesn't always handle the watch pairing well, so it's best to do it specifically beforehand.
After following all these steps, your iPhone will be completely clean of personal data, no activation lock, and ready to use as if it were newWhether it's in your own hands or someone else's, you'll also have up-to-date backups and can choose between a clean install or restoring only what you really need, so you don't fill your phone with unused apps and files.