Securely erase your iPhone before selling
Your iPhone is chock-full of personal data . Photos from years past. Apps with sensitive information. Paired AirPods and other devices. And now you want to sell it or pass it on. Then comes the stress: how do you ensure all your private data is truly gone? That you don't lose important memories? And that your accessories continue to work smoothly? Yet, wiping your iPhone doesn't have to be a headache. In six simple steps, you can securely erase your device—without hassle, without risks, and without spending hours. A clean slate for you and a safe transfer to the new owner. It can be that simple.
Useful links
Make a backup
Before wiping your iPhone, it's essential to make a full backup of all your important data. You can do this via iCloud or on your computer with iTunes. A backup ensures you don't lose precious photos, messages, or other memories. Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi and go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Tap "Back Up Now" and wait for the process to complete.
Log out of your accounts
The next step is to log out of all your linked accounts and services. This prevents the new owner from accessing your personal information. Important accounts to log out of are:
- Your Apple ID (Settings > Your Name > Sign Out)
- iCloud (Settings > Your Name > iCloud > Sign Out)
- iTunes & App Store (Settings > Your Name > Media & Purchases > Sign Out)
Disconnect paired devices
Make sure to unpair all paired devices, such as AirPods, an Apple Watch, or a paired car, from your iPhone. Otherwise, these accessories may no longer work properly with your new device. You can unpair devices one by one in Settings > Bluetooth. Tap the information icon next to a device and select "Forget This Device."
Erase all content and settings
Now that you have a backup and are signed out, you can confidently erase all content and settings from your iPhone. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. Enter your passcode if prompted. This process may take a while, but it will ensure all your personal data is completely removed from the device.
Remove the device from Find My iPhone
The final important step is removing your iPhone from Find My iPhone. Otherwise, the new owner won't be able to activate it. To do this, log in to icloud.com with your Apple ID, go to Find My iPhone, and select the device you want to remove. Click "Erase iPhone" and confirm your choice.
Ready for a carefree transfer
By following these six simple steps, you can securely and thoroughly erase your iPhone. Your personal data is protected, while you preserve important memories thanks to a backup. Your accessories will work seamlessly with your new device. And the next owner of your old iPhone can get started with peace of mind. A clean slate for you and a worry-free transfer—it's that simple.
Switch safely to your new iPhone
With this step-by-step approach, you can sell or pass on your iPhone with peace of mind . By first creating a good backup and then systematically logging out of your accounts and wiping your data, all your important information will be safely stored. Your accessories will work with your new device again, and the new owner can get started right away. Considering a new device? At leapp, you'll find a wide selection of reliable refurbished iPhones . This way, you're making a smart choice not only for your wallet, but also for the environment.
