Fresh Start: How to Reset Your iPhone

Whether you’re getting ready to sell your iPhone, passing it on to someone else, or trying to fix a frozen screen, knowing how to reset an iPhone can save you a lot of hassle.

However, not every reset does the same thing. A factory reset completely erases your personal data and settings, while a force restart simply restarts the iPhone when it becomes frozen or unresponsive. Choosing the right option depends on what you’re trying to fix.

Quick Guide: Which Reset Do You Need?

Action	What It Does	Will You Lose Data?	Best For
Factory Reset	Erases all content, settings, and personal data	Yes	Selling, trading in, or starting fresh
Force Restart	Restarts the iPhone when it is unresponsive	No	Frozen screens, crashes, or apps that stop responding
Standard Restart	Turns the iPhone off and back on normally	No	Minor glitches, slowdowns, or everyday issues

Method 1: How to Factory Reset an iPhone

A factory reset returns your iPhone to a clean state, similar to when you first took it out of the box. This is the option to use if you’re selling, trading in, or giving your iPhone to someone else.

Important: Back up your iPhone before you start. You can use iCloud or back up your device to a Mac or PC. Any data that hasn’t been backed up may be lost once the iPhone is erased.

1. Open Settings

Open the Settings app and tap General.

2. Go to Transfer or Reset iPhone

Scroll to the bottom and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.

3. Choose Erase All Content and Settings

Tap Erase All Content and Settings, then tap Continue.

4. Choose What to Do With Your eSIM

If your iPhone uses an eSIM, you may be asked whether you want to Keep eSIM or Delete eSIM.

If you’re keeping the iPhone and continuing to use the same mobile service, you may want to keep the eSIM. If you’re selling or trading in the device, deleting the eSIM is generally the better option.

5. Confirm and Erase Your iPhone

Follow the on-screen instructions and enter your iPhone passcode when asked. You may also need to enter your Apple Account password to turn off Find My and remove the device from your account.

Your iPhone will then erase its data and settings. Once the process is finished, you’ll see the Hello screen, ready for the next setup.

Method 2: How to Force Restart a Frozen iPhone

If your iPhone has frozen, the screen isn’t responding, or an app has caused the device to become stuck, a force restart can usually get things working again.

Unlike a factory reset, a force restart does not erase your photos, apps, messages, or other personal data.

iPhone 8, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd Generation), iPhone X and Later

This method applies to most newer iPhone models:

1. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
3. Press and hold the Side button.
4. Keep holding it until the Apple logo appears, then release the button.

iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus

Press and hold the Volume Down button and Side button at the same time. Keep holding them until you see the Apple logo.

iPhone 6s, iPhone SE (1st Generation) and Older

Press and hold the Home button and the Top or Side button at the same time. Release both when the Apple logo appears.

What to Do Before Selling or Trading In Your iPhone

If you’re resetting your iPhone because you’re giving it away, selling it, or trading it in, there are a few extra steps worth completing first.

1. Unpair Your Apple Watch

If you have an Apple Watch connected to your iPhone, open the Watch app and unpair it before handing over the device.

2. Back Up Your Data

Make sure your important photos, contacts, messages, and other data are backed up. You can check your iCloud backup by going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.

3. Sign Out of Your Apple Account

Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out and follow the instructions. During the factory reset, you may also be asked for your Apple ID password to disable Find My.

4. Remove Your SIM or Check Your eSIM

If your iPhone has a physical SIM card and you’re giving the device to someone else, remove the SIM before handing it over. For an eSIM, make sure you select the appropriate option during the reset.

Factory Reset or Force Restart: Which One Should You Choose?

The easiest way to decide which reset to use is to consider the problem you’re trying to solve. If your iPhone is frozen or not responding, try a force restart first. It’s quick, doesn’t delete your data, and can resolve many temporary software issues.

If you’re selling, trading in, or giving away your iPhone, perform a factory reset after backing up your data and signing out of your Apple Account. If you’re planning to upgrade, iSTYLE UAE offers the latest iPhone models and can help you choose the right device for your needs.

In short, a force restart is for fixing your iPhone, while a factory reset is for wiping it clean. Choosing the right option helps you solve the problem without accidentally deleting data you still need.