How do I factory reset my Android phone?

A factory reset erases the phone and returns it to like-new software. First back up, charge to at least 70%, and make sure you know your Google Account password and screen lock. Then open Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data (factory reset) and confirm. On Samsung the path is Settings → General management → Reset → Factory data reset. Afterward, set the phone up again and restore your backup.

Steps to check

1. Try simpler fixes first if the phone is only buggy

   Google suggests trying other troubleshooting before a factory reset when you are only trying to fix a glitch. Restart the phone, clear the problem app's cache, check for a system update, or free up storage. Use a factory reset when you are selling or giving the phone away, or when nothing else has fixed a serious problem.

2. Confirm your Google password and finish your backup

   After a reset, the phone asks for the Google Account that was on it (Factory Reset Protection). Sign in to that account on a computer or another phone now to be sure the password works. If you changed the password recently, Google suggests waiting 24 hours before you reset. Turn on Google backup and tap Back up now, and check that photos you care about are in Google Photos. Our separate backup guide walks through chat apps, authenticator codes, and files only on the phone.

3. Charge and stay connected

   Google says a factory reset can take up to an hour. Charge the phone to at least 70%, and connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data. You will need a network connection after the reset to sign in to your Google Account.

4. Erase all data from Settings

   On most phones: open Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data (factory reset). Read the warning, then tap Erase all data (you may need to enter your PIN). Wait until the phone restarts to the setup screen. Do not unplug it midway.

   • Pixel Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data (factory reset) → Erase all data. Confirm with your PIN if asked, then restart when prompted.
   • Samsung Settings → General management → Reset → Factory data reset. Review what will be erased, swipe to reset or tap Reset, then Delete all. Enter your lock screen credentials and Samsung account password if prompted.
   • Motorola Settings → System → Reset options → Erase all data (factory reset), then confirm. Menu labels can say Factory reset on some models.

5. Set up the phone and restore your backup

   When setup starts, connect to Wi-Fi, sign in with the same Google Account, and choose to restore from your backup when asked. Photos already in Google Photos will show up after you open the Photos app and sign in. Restoring apps and settings can take a while. Give it time on Wi-Fi.

6. If Settings will not open

   You can often reset with the hardware buttons using recovery or Fastboot mode, but the button combination differs by brand and model. Check your phone maker's help page for "factory reset" or "recovery mode" for your exact model. On Pixel, Google documents Fastboot and recovery steps when the screen or Settings will not cooperate. For a lost phone you can also erase remotely from Find Hub if Find My Device was on and the phone is online.

Normal vs. not

Common questions

Will a factory reset remove my Google Account from the phone?

It erases the account from the device, but the account itself still exists online. After the reset you sign in again. Keep the password. Someone without that password cannot finish setup on a phone that had Factory Reset Protection.

Does a factory reset install the newest Android version?

Usually it keeps the software version already on the phone, then you can check for updates after setup. Some Pixel repair tools can flash newer software; that is a separate process from the Settings reset.

I only want a clean phone. Do I have to reset?

Not always. Clearing cache, disabling apps you do not use, freeing storage, and uninstalling clutter fix many "slow phone" feelings without erasing everything. Reset when you need a true wipe.

Related questions

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