Resetting your iPhone X to factory default settings is an easy process that allows you to wipe the device and restore it to its original out-of-the-box state. This can be useful if you are selling or giving away your phone, troubleshooting technical issues, or want to start fresh with a clean device.
Table of Contents
When to Factory Reset an iPhone X
Here are some common reasons to factory reset an iPhone X:
- Selling or gifting the device: Resetting removes all personal data like photos, messages, accounts, and settings so the next owner starts fresh.
- Fixing technical problems: A reset can resolve software glitches, lagging, crashes, or other issues.
- Enhancing security: Data is permanently deleted so no one can access your information if the phone is lost or stolen.
- Removing jailbreak: Resetting the device will remove any jailbreaking modifications and restore it to factory condition.
Back Up Important Data
Before resetting your iPhone X, be sure to back up any data you want to keep. You can back up to iCloud or iTunes. Backing up saves things like:
- Photos and videos
- Contacts and call history
- Device settings
- Messages
- Notes and voice memos
- Calendars
- Health data
Without a backup, all data and settings will be permanently erased from the device during the reset process.
Factory Reset an iPhone X
Resetting an iPhone X removes all content and settings and restores it to factory default condition. Here is how to complete the process:
Via Settings
- Open the Settings app
- Tap General
- Tap Reset
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings
- Enter your passcode if prompted
- Tap Erase to confirm
The device will reboot into recovery mode to finish the reset process. This takes several minutes.
Via iTunes or Finder
You can also reset your iPhone X by connecting it to a computer with iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
- Connect the iPhone to your computer
- Open iTunes / Finder
- Select your iPhone
- Click Restore
- Click Restore again to confirm
The device will reboot into recovery mode to finish the reset process. This takes several minutes.
What Happens During Reset
When you factory reset an iPhone X, here is what happens:
- All settings are erased: This includes accounts, wallpapers, alarms, notifications settings, and more.
- All data is deleted: Photos, messages, emails, downloads, music, contacts, and other personal data is permanently removed.
- OS is updated: The latest iOS version is installed over your current OS.
- Device is restored: iPhone X returns to original factory settings, as if brand new out of the box.
After Resetting iPhone X
Once the reset process completes, you’ll be greeted with the iOS welcome and setup screens, just like when you first got your iPhone X. You’ll need to walk through the setup assistant:
- Select language
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Login or create an Apple ID
- Enable services like iCloud and Find My iPhone
- Customize basic settings
Your device will now be running the latest OS version with all default settings applied. Enjoy your fresh start!
