How to Sign Out and Factory Reset Your iPhone Erase All Data Before Selling

How to Sign Out and Factory Reset Your iPhone – Erase All Data Before Selling.

If you’re selling, returning, or giving away your iPhone, you’ll want to wipe all your personal data first. A proper factory reset ensures your info stays safe and the next owner can set it up like a brand-new phone.

This guide is based on iOS 18.3.2 (iPhone 16 Pro Max Titanium Black 256GB, Model A3296 – MYWV3ZD/A), but the steps are similar for most iPhones.

How to Sign Out and Factory Reset Your iPhone – Erase All Data Before Selling.

Step 1: Back Up Your iPhone

Before resetting, save your data so you don’t lose anything important.

1. iCloud Backup:

• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
• Tap Back Up Now and wait for it to finish.

1. Computer Backup (recommended):

• Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC.
• On a Mac (macOS 10.15 or later), use Finder. On a PC or older Mac, use iTunes.
• Select Back Up Now and wait for completion.

Step 2: Sign Out of iCloud & Turn Off Find My iPhone

This removes the iCloud lock so the new owner can activate the phone.

1. Open Settings > tap your Apple ID (top of the screen).
2. Scroll down and tap Sign Out.
3. Enter your Apple ID password and tap Turn Off (for Find My iPhone).
4. Confirm by tapping Sign Out again.

Step 3: Erase All Content & Settings

This performs a full factory reset.

1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
3. If prompted, enter your passcode and Apple ID password.
4. Confirm by tapping Erase Now.
5. Wait for the process to complete, now your iPhone will restart as if it’s brand new.

Step 4: Remove SIM Card (If Applicable)

If your iPhone has a physical SIM:

• Eject the SIM tray (use a paperclip or SIM tool) and remove the card.

For eSIM users:

• Go to Settings > Cellular > Remove Cellular Plan before resetting.

Final Check Before Selling

After resetting:

• The iPhone should show the “Hello” setup screen.
• Try turning it on to confirm no activation lock appears.
• If the new owner gets an iCloud lock, you may need to remove it via Apple.

That’s it! Your iPhone is now clean, secure, and ready for its next owner.