Back up everything, remove your Google account, make sure the phone is well charged and only then use Factory data reset in Settings. Know your Google password before you start, because the phone will ask for it afterwards.
A factory reset returns a phone to how it was when it was new, and deletes everything on it. It can fix a phone that is slow, glitchy or full of problems, and it is the right step before you sell or give away a phone. Done in the wrong order, though, it can lock you out of your own phone.
Should you reset at all?
A reset is a big step, so try the simple things first: restart the phone, install pending updates, remove apps you do not need and clear space. If the phone is still misbehaving, a reset is reasonable. A reset will not fix a hardware fault such as a failing battery or a damaged screen.
Before you reset
- Back up your data. Photos, contacts, chats and files. See our guide to backing up your phone. Check the backup finished.
- Know your Google account and password. Android phones are protected by your Google account. After a reset, the phone asks you to sign in with the account that was on it, and if you do not know the details, you can be locked out.
- Remove your Google account first if you are selling or giving the phone away. Look for it under Settings, Passwords and accounts, or Accounts.
- Charge the phone, ideally to more than half, so it does not switch off part-way through.
- Take out the SIM and any memory card, unless you want them wiped or need them.
How to reset
The exact path depends on the maker and Android version. Common routes are:
- Settings, then System, then Reset options, then Erase all data (factory reset).
- Settings, then General management, then Reset, then Factory data reset.
If you cannot find it, search for Reset in the Settings search bar. Follow the prompts, enter your screen lock if asked, and wait. The phone will restart, and this can take several minutes. Do not switch it off.
After the reset
Set the phone up again, sign in with your Google account and restore from your backup. Reinstall apps and sign in to each one, and set up WhatsApp again from its backup.
If the phone will not start or you are locked out
If the phone will not boot, or you have forgotten your Google account details, do not keep trying random things. Bring it in and explain what has happened, and we can look at the options.
Frequently asked questions
Will a factory reset delete everything?
Yes. Photos, contacts, apps and settings on the phone are erased. Back up first.
Why is my phone asking for a Google account after a reset?
Android uses your Google account as a security lock. After a reset, the phone asks for the account and password that were on it, to stop a stolen phone from being reused. This is why you should know your details, or remove the account before you sell the phone.
Is clearing an app's cache the same as a factory reset?
No. Clearing cache removes temporary files for one app. A factory reset erases the whole phone.
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