Does Resetting iPhone Delete Everything [Answered]

Gorilla updated on Feb 27, 2024 to iPhone Data Transfer

This article will give you quick answer to the question 'does resetting iPhone deleve everything' and help you reset your iPhone without losing any data.

Highlights:

Resetting an iPhone by "Erase All Content and Settings" deletes everything on the device. This option deletes all system preferences and personal files on the iPhone, returning it to its factory settings. Always make sure you have backed up iPhone before initiating a factory reset. However, a Quick Reset (also known as Reset or Reset All Settings), Soft Reset (also known as Restart), and a Hard Reset of iPhone (also known as Force Restart) don't delete any data on your device.

Does Resetting iPhone Delete Everything Stored on the Device

This part will give you a more comprehensive understanding of the question "Does resetting iPhone delete everything". Let's dive in now!

1️⃣What is a factory reset?

A factory reset on iPhone is a process that removes all user-installed apps, applications, personal settings, and data, returning the device to the state it was in when it left the factory. It's a powerful troubleshooting tool, often used when a device is experiencing persistent issues, or when preparing to sell or transfer ownership. The action is irreversible so users are advised to back up their data before initiating a factory reset.

2️⃣What resets when you reset all settings on iPhone?

When you choose to "Reset All Settings" on an iPhone, it affects system settings but doesn't delete your personal data or media. Here is what resets:

  • System settings: Preferences like wallpaper, brightness, and sounds are restored to their default settings.
  • Networks and Bluetooth: All saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections are forgotten, and you'll need to reconnect to them.
  • Home screen layout: Icons are rearranged to their default layout.
  • Keyboard dictionary: Custom words you've added to the dictionary are removed.
  • Location and privacy settings: Any customized app permissions and privacy settings are reset.
  • Apple Pay and Wallet: Credit and debit cards linked to Apple Pay, as well as passes and cards in the Wallet app, are removed.

3️⃣What are the impacts after a factory reset on an iPhone?

Performing a factory reset on an iPhone has several impacts:

  • The most significant impact is the loss of all data on the device. This includes photos, videos, messages, apps, and any other personal content.
  • All system settings, preferences, and configurations are returned to their default state.
  • Any customizations within individual apps return to their default configurations, so it takes a while to restore your personalized settings to the way you like. 
  • All screen passcodes and biometrics such as Face ID and Touch ID are erased and you will need to reconfigure them. 
  • Except for iOS system apps, all apps, programs, and plug-ins are uninstalled and user data is wiped out. You'll need to reinstall them if you want them back. 
  • Your Apple ID and password will be required after the reset to access the App Store and iCloud and bypass the Activation Lock

How Do I Reset My iPhone Without Losing Everything

In this section, you will learn how to factory reset iPhone without losing everything from scratch, which is a two-step process, as show below:

1️⃣Backup iPhone First

Does factory reset delete everything on iPhone? Yes. Therefore, before performing a factory reset, it's crucial to back up your data if you want to retain any of your personal information. 

iTunes and Finder (For macOS 10.15 or later) are the official tools for you to back up your iPhone. If somehow they are not working properly, you can use a superior iTunes alternative - EaseUS MobiMover Free. This dedicated software is designed to create the most up-to-date copy of your iPhone data for free. With this free EaseUS iPhone data transfer tool, iPhone backup is all under your control in a few clicks. Download the free iPhone data backup software now!

Here's how to backup iPhone with EaseUS MobiMover Free:

Step 1. Get the app ready.

Download, install, and launch EaseUS MobiMover on your PC or Mac. This app allows you to download and securely back up your iPhone at no cost.

Step 2. Connect iPhone to computer.

Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer. Then choose Backup Manager > Back up on the EaseUS MobiMover app.

Step 3. Choose files for backup.

You are allowed to selectively back up your iPhone. Choose any data you want to back up. 

Step 4. Back up your iPhone successfully

By clicking the "One-click Backup" button, EaseUS MobiMover will start backing up your iPhone instantly.

2️⃣Factory Reset iPhone from Settings

After you have secured your important personal information on your iPhone, it is time to reset your iPhone to manufacturer settings. 

How to factory reset iPhone:

Step 1. On your iPhone, open Settings > General, and scroll down to find Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.

Step 3. Tap Continue and enter the correct screen passcode.

Wait until the factory reset is complete. Your iPhone will restart with a Hello screen. Then you can follow the onscreen instructions to set your iPhone up or restore your iPhone using a backup you just created. 

Bonus: How to Factory Reset iPhone Without Password

If you find yourself locked out of your iPhone and unable to perform a factory reset through the Settings app, fear not. There are alternative solutions available to factory reset a locked iPhone when you've forgotten the screen password.

  • ✅Apple's iTunes allows you to revert your iPhone back to its factory defaults without a password. By entering recovery mode through specific button sequences and connecting your device to a computer, iTunes will recognize your iPhone, enabling you to employ the 'Restore iPhone' feature for the reset. 
  • Another option is to employ an iPhone screen unlocker such as EaseUS MobiUnlock. This tool can help you bypass various screen passcodes, including Security Lockout and iPhone-disabled scenarios. Once the screen is unlocked, you can proceed to factory reset disabled iPhone, allowing you to set it up afresh. Simply launch the software, connect your iPhone to the computer, and let the app do its magic.

The Bottom Line

This article answers your question "Does resetting an iPhone delete everything?" exactly and tells you how to factory reset an iPhone without deleting everything.

As a factory reset of your iPhone essentially wipes the device clean, it is highly advisable to use EaseUS MobiMover to back up your iPhone before an iPhone reset. If you are unable to factory reset your iPhone using Erase All Content and Settings in the Settings app, use EaseUS MobiUnlocker to bypass the screen lock first.

FAQs on How to Factory Reset an iPhone Without Losing Data

Here are some questions that are frequently asked by iPhone users about iPhone factory reset. Check them out.

1. What is the difference between the "Reset" option and the "Erase All Content and Settings" option?

The "Reset" option is a less drastic measure, affecting system configurations like wallpaper, network settings, and location and privacy options without removing personal data. On the other hand, "Erase All Content and Settings" is a more significant action, wiping the device clean and reverting it to its original factory state. 

2. Will I lose anything if I reset the network settings on iPhone?

No, resetting the network settings on an iPhone only affects network settings, including Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth devices, cellular settings, Personal Hotspot, and VPN configurations. It will not delete your personal data such as photos, messages, or apps.

3. How to restore my iPhone to factory settings with buttons?

Unfortunately, Apple does not provide a direct method for factory resetting an iPhone solely using the physical buttons. To initiate a factory reset through iTunes, the process requires the use of either the Home button or the Side button in combination with the volume buttons to enter recovery mode.