Yes, it is possible to restore an iPhone to factory settings if needed. Restoring an iPhone can help fix software issues, remove unwanted content or settings, or prepare the device for resale. There are a few different ways to restore an iPhone depending on the model and version.
Restoring with iTunes
One way to restore an iPhone is by connecting it to a computer with iTunes installed. This allows you to completely erase the device and install the latest software version. Here is the general process:
- Connect the iPhone to your computer using the USB cable that came with the device.
- Open iTunes on the computer. If prompted, enter your passcode on the iPhone to trust the computer.
- In iTunes, select your iPhone from the list of devices.
- Click “Summary” and then click “Restore iPhone.” This will completely erase and reinstall iOS.
- A prompt will appear to confirm you want to restore. Click “Restore” to continue.
- iTunes will download the latest iOS software version and install it on your iPhone.
- Once complete, you can set up and use your iPhone as new.
Restoring with iTunes allows you to wipe the iPhone completely clean and start fresh. It installs the latest operating system, removing any bugs or glitches that may have accumulated.
Restoring with Finder
If you use a Mac running macOS Catalina or later, you can also restore an iPhone using Finder instead of iTunes. The process is very similar:
- Connect your iPhone to the Mac with a USB cable.
- Open Finder and select your iPhone under Locations in the sidebar.
- Click General and then click “Restore iPhone.”
- Confirm that you want to restore on the prompt.
- Finder will download and install the latest iOS version automatically.
Using Finder to restore your iPhone works the same way as iTunes. It wipes the device completely clean and installs a fresh iOS firmware.
Restoring with iPhone Settings
You can also restore your iPhone directly from the Settings app, without needing a computer. Here’s how:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General > Reset.
- Tap “Erase All Content and Settings.”
- Enter your passcode if prompted.
- Tap through the prompts to confirm the restore.
This will erase your iPhone and reinstall the latest iOS version, just like using iTunes or Finder. The only difference is it’s done directly from the device.
Putting the iPhone in Recovery Mode
If your iPhone is having major software issues, you may need to force it into recovery mode to restore it. Here are the steps:
- Connect the iPhone to your computer with a USB cable.
- Force restart the iPhone: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button, quickly press and release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- In iTunes or Finder you should get a prompt that the iPhone is in recovery mode.
- Follow the on-screen steps to restore the device.
Recovery mode forces the iPhone into a state where it can accept a fresh install of iOS to resolve any major system errors or crashes it may be having.
What Data Is Lost When Restoring an iPhone?
Restoring an iPhone erases all of its data and settings. This includes:
- Apps and games installed
- Contacts, calendars, notes
- Messages
- Photos and videos
- Music, books, audiobooks
- Home screen customizations
- Device settings
- Anything else stored locally on the device
Any data synced to iCloud may be retrievable after the restore if you use the same Apple ID. But anything only stored locally on the iPhone will be erased.
Should I Back Up Before Restoring?
It’s always a good idea to back up your iPhone before restoring it. You can back up to iCloud or to a computer using iTunes or Finder. This will give you the option to restore from a backup after resetting the device, so you can get back personal data like contacts, messages, photos and more.
To back up to iCloud, go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap “Back Up Now.” You need enough available iCloud storage space for the size of your backup.
To back up to iTunes or Finder, connect your iPhone to your computer and it will give you the option to back up to that computer.
How to Restore from a Backup After iPhone Reset
If you backed up your iPhone before restoring it, you can use that backup to return your data to the device. Here’s how:
- After restoring your iPhone, go through the initial setup prompts until you reach the Apps & Data screen.
- Tap “Restore from iCloud Backup” or “Restore from iTunes/Finder Backup” depending on your backup source.
- Sign in with your Apple ID if prompted.
- Select the backup you want to use from the list of available backups.
- Allow the restore process to complete. Your apps, data, and settings will return to your iPhone from the backup.
This will get you back up and running quickly after an iPhone restore, without losing your personal data.
Important Tips for Restoring an iPhone
Here are some important tips to keep in mind when restoring an iPhone:
- Restoring deletes all data, so back up first if needed.
- Reset network settings after restoring to fix any cellular data issues.
- Update to the latest iOS version during the restore process.
- Disable Find My iPhone before restoring.
- Log out of iCloud and the App Store before resetting.
- Restore can fix many common iPhone issues and errors.
When Should I Restore My iPhone?
Some common reasons to restore an iPhone include:
- You’re experiencing bugs, glitches, or crashes.
- Your iPhone feels slow and sluggish.
- You want to wipe the device before selling or giving it away.
- You forgot the passcode and want to reset it.
- You want to start fresh and erase all content and settings.
A clean restore can improve performance and fix system errors. It’s also the only way to completely erase all content from your iPhone before selling it or giving it away.
Can I Selectively Restore Certain Data?
Unfortunately, there is no way to selectively choose certain data or apps to restore to an iPhone. When you restore from a backup, everything from that backup is returned to the device. The only way to selectively restore certain data is to manually reinstall apps you want and import specific data like photos or contacts after the restore is complete.
Is My Data Gone Forever After Restoring?
If you did not back up your iPhone before restoring it, the local data on the device will be erased for good. However, some data may still be retrievable from iCloud for up to 30 days:
- iCloud Photos – Accessible for up to 30 days after deletion.
- Contacts, Calendars – Can be synced back down from iCloud.
- Notes, Reminders – Still available in iCloud.
- iCloud Backup – Can restore from a backup within the 30 day retention window.
So immediately signing back into iCloud after a restore may retrieve some data. But any local-only files are erased permanently.
If I Can’t Restore, Does That Mean My iPhone is Bricked?
If your iPhone gets into a state where it will not successfully restore through iTunes, Finder, or Settings, it does not necessarily mean the device is bricked or permanently broken. Here are some things to try:
- Force restart your iPhone – Press and release volume up, press and release volume down, then hold the side button.
- Try a different USB cable, computer, or network connection.
- Update to the latest version of iTunes or macOS.
- Seek help at an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider.
In most cases, a stuck restore process does not mean your iPhone is bricked. But it may require seeking professional help to get it fixed.
Can I Restore Without a Computer?
Yes, you can restore an iPhone completely without a computer using the “Erase All Content and Settings” option under the iPhone’s Settings app. This will erase and reinstall iOS without needing iTunes or Finder.
The only caveat is your iPhone will need to have internet connectivity via WiFi or mobile data to re-download iOS directly. But otherwise, the restore process works the same whether performed directly on the device or via computer.
Conclusion
Restoring an iPhone is a straightforward process that can fix a variety of issues and give you a fresh start. Backing up beforehand ensures you don’t lose your personal data. While restoring deletes everything locally on the device, your data may still be retrievable from iCloud for up to 30 days. Restoring is an essential iPhone troubleshooting tool for recovering from software bugs or preparing an iPhone for resale. With the simple steps outlined above, you can easily restore your iPhone via computer or directly from the device settings.