The device is erased by restoring its factory settings. All your personal information, files on the device, and apps you installed will be removed at the same time.
Before erasing the device, we recommend backing up your important files, for example to a cloud service, or transferring them to a new device (Android, iCloud). Also remember to remove SIM and memory cards from the device if you are parting with the device.
The method for erasing the device varies slightly depending on its operating system and version, but the principle is the same and the naming of the menus usually follows the same pattern. If you cannot find where the device is erased or factory settings are restored, you should confirm the matter with the manufacturer's support
Mobile Devices
Android
- First, remove the Google account
- Also remove any possible user account of the manufacturer (e.g. Samsung, Huawei)
- Now you can restore the phone's factory settings:
Settings > General Management > Reset > Factory Data Reset - When the phone restarts to the setup and language selection, the device is erased
iOS
- If you have paired an Apple Watch and an iPhone, remove the device pair first.
- Terminate any AppleCare agreement possibly acquired for the device
- If you have the "Find My iPhone" feature enabled, it must be turned off:
Settings > Your Name > iCloud/Find > Find My iPhone > Off - Sign out of iCloud, iTunes Store and App Store
- Now you can restore the phone to factory settings:
Settings > General > Reset > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings
Tablets
The most common Android and Apple tablets are erased in much the same way as phones. Follow the instructions above. If you cannot find the section on the device where the erasing takes place, you should turn to the manufacturer's support service.
Smartwatches
- You can usually erase an Android Wear smartwatch in the same way as other Android devices.
- If you have paired an Apple Watch and an iPhone, remove the device pair first.
- If you do not have an iPhone available, the erasing happens like this:
Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings - Enter the password when requested
- Remove the mobile subscription if necessary (e.g., eSIM).
- Confirm by selecting “Erase All”, and the watch's factory settings will be restored
Computers
Windows 10
- Select from behind the Start button: Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Select “Get started” under the Reset this PC section
- Finally, select “Remove everything”
Windows 11
- Select from behind the Start button: Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Select Reset this PC (or Reset PC) under the Recovery options section
- Finally, select “Remove everything”
Mac Computers
- Terminate any AppleCare agreement possibly acquired for the Mac
- There are a couple of methods for erasing and restoring the Mac to factory settings, depending on which chip and operating system the Mac has
- Good instructions for erasing can be found from Apple here