How to Securely Erase iPhone Data?
Use Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. Apple notes this completely erases your device and turns off services like iCloud and iMessage on that device.
Steps / Best Methods
- Back up anything you still need (photos, messages, app data).
- Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- Enter your passcode (and Apple Account password if prompted).
- If your iPhone uses eSIM, choose the option to erase the device and the eSIM profile when asked.
- Wait for the iPhone to restart to the Hello screen.
| Erase option | Use case |
|---|---|
| Erase All Content and Settings | Selling/trade-in; maximum privacy |
| Sign Out But Don’t Erase (where offered) | Handing phone to a technician temporarily |
💡More Info:
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3. How to Update iPhone to the Latest iOS?
4. How to Fix an iOS Update Stuck or Failed?
5. How to Check iPhone iOS Compatibility?