How to factory reset an Android phone
2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026
Back up first. Then open Settings, System, Reset options and tap Erase all data (factory reset). Confirm with your PIN. The phone deletes everything and restarts as new.
A factory reset removes all apps, photos, accounts and settings. Do it before you sell or give away the phone, or as a last resort when serious problems remain.
Menu names below are from Google Pixel phones on a recent Android version. Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands rename some of them, so the Samsung name is given where it differs. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the screen, not screenshots.
Step by step
Back up your data
Open Settings, System, Backup and tap Back up now. Check that photos are backed up in Google Photos and that you know your Google Account password.
Charge the phone
Plug it in or make sure the battery is above 50%.
Open Settings, System, Reset options
On Samsung: Settings, General management, Reset.
Tap Erase all data (factory reset)
A list shows what will be removed, including the accounts on the phone. On Samsung, tap Factory data reset.
Confirm with your PIN
Tap Erase all data. The phone restarts and wipes itself, which takes a few minutes.
Good to know
Selling the phone? Remove your Google Account first under Settings, Passwords, passkeys & accounts (Passwords & accounts on older versions). Otherwise Factory Reset Protection asks the next owner for your account.
If you keep the phone and use an eSIM, do not tick the option to erase eSIMs.
Take out the SIM and memory card before handing the phone over.
For smaller problems, try Reset app preferences or a network reset first. They keep your data.
In short: Back up, then Settings, System, Reset options, Erase all data.
- Google Android Help: Reset your Android device to factory settings
Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.