iPhone/iPad Reset: How to Reset Even if Won't Boot

Resetting Your Apple Device to Factory Settings

It is straightforward to restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch back to its original factory state. This process effectively reverts the device to the condition it was in when it first left the manufacturer.

Even if your device is unresponsive or fails to power on, a complete reinstallation of the iOS operating system is often possible.

Methods for Resetting Your Device

Multiple methods exist for accomplishing a factory reset, ranging in complexity. We will present these options, starting with the least demanding and progressing to those requiring more technical intervention.

A computer running either iTunes (on PC) or Finder (on Mac) is necessary to restore the device’s operating system using certain methods.

Before proceeding, it’s crucial to understand that a factory reset will erase all personal data from your device. Therefore, backing up your information is highly recommended.

Restoring via iTunes or Finder

Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your PC or Finder on your Mac.
Connect your iOS device to your computer using a compatible USB cable.
Follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the restore process.

This method allows for a complete system recovery, addressing many software-related issues. The device will download and install the latest compatible version of iOS.

The restoration process may take some time, depending on your internet connection speed and the size of the iOS software.

Initiating a Factory Reset

Related: Understanding iCloud Functionality and Windows Access

A standard factory reset represents the most expedient and straightforward method for restoring your device. This process reverts your device to its original, out-of-the-box state, effectively removing all personalized configurations, installed applications, and locally stored data. Following completion, you will be required to repeat the initial setup procedure.

Data synchronized with your iCloud account or other cloud services will be automatically recovered upon re-entering your credentials. Should iCloud backup be enabled, local application data will be preserved and reinstated after the reset and subsequent app reinstallation.

This reset option is particularly suitable when preparing a device for sale or transfer to another user, ensuring a clean slate for the next owner.

To initiate the standard factory reset, locate and tap the Settings application icon on your device’s home screen. Navigate to the General section within Settings, then scroll down to select Reset. Subsequently, tap "Erase All Content and Settings" and provide your passcode when requested. Modern iPhones and iPads will securely delete the encryption key, preventing data recovery and preparing the storage for new use. The entire process typically requires only a few minutes to complete.

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iTunes-Based Device Restoration

The preceding steps only serve to eliminate your individualized data and installed applications. A complete operating system reinstallation isn't performed by this method. Should your device be exhibiting instability or other malfunctions, the core system files may be damaged.

To rectify these issues, a connection to a computer – either a PC or a Mac – running iTunes is required. iTunes facilitates the downloading of the device’s operating system directly from Apple.

Subsequently, a pristine copy of the operating system is installed onto the device, effectively replacing the existing one and initiating a complete system reset. This process is commonly referred to as a "restore."

Begin by launching the iTunes application on your computer. It’s crucial to verify that you are utilizing the most current version of iTunes for optimal results.

Connect your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch to your computer using the provided USB cable. This cable is typically the one used for charging your device.

Unlock your device using your passcode and then select the "Trust" option to authorize your computer's access.

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Once your device is recognized by iTunes, select it within the iTunes interface. Then, initiate the restoration process by clicking the "Restore" button.

iTunes will then proceed to reinstall a fresh copy of the iOS operating system onto your device. This action will erase all personal files and data, effectively replacing the entire operating system.

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Recovering Your Device Using Recovery Mode

When standard troubleshooting methods fail, or your device is unable to boot, utilizing recovery mode becomes necessary to resolve issues. Prior to initiating this process, confirm that iTunes is running on your computer.

The initial step involves completely powering down your device. This is typically achieved by pressing and holding the power button, then sliding to confirm the shutdown. Should the device be unresponsive, a simultaneous press and hold of the power and home buttons for several seconds will force a shutdown. (For iPhone 7 models, the power button and volume down button should be pressed and held instead.)

Subsequently, connect your device to your computer using its USB cable. Maintain pressure on the home button until the "Connect to iTunes" screen is displayed – this screen features a connector icon linked to the iTunes logo. Once visible, the button can be released.

If the expected screen doesn't appear and the device boots normally, repeat the procedure. It’s crucial to continue holding the home button until the "Connect to iTunes" screen materializes.

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Upon detection of a device in recovery mode, iTunes will present a notification. Select the Restore option within iTunes to begin the process of reinstalling the device’s operating system.

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When Recovery Mode Isn't Enough

In situations where the aforementioned steps do not resolve the encountered problems, a potential hardware malfunction may be present. Professional assessment and repair by Apple are recommended in such cases.

Image Credit: Kārlis Dambrāns on Flickr