How to reset all settings on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To reset all settings on your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. This process will restore all system settings to their defaults without erasing your data.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before resetting all settings on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •iPhone running iOS 12 or later (iOS 15, 16, and 17 are recommended for optimal performance).
  • •Sufficient battery charge (at least 50%) or connect to a power source.
  • •Access to your Apple ID and password, as you may need it after the reset.
  • •Backup important data using iCloud or iTunes to prevent data loss.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This is the primary method for resetting all settings on your iPhone. It is straightforward and does not require any additional tools.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app from your home screen.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll to the bottom and select 'Transfer or Reset iPhone'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Reset'.
  • •Step 5: Choose 'Reset All Settings'.
  • •Step 6: Enter your device passcode if prompted, then confirm your choice by tapping 'Reset All Settings' again.
  • •Step 7: Your iPhone will restart, and all settings will be reset to default. Verify by checking settings like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

For iOS 16 and 17

The steps remain consistent across iOS 16 and 17, with minor UI adjustments.
  • •In iOS 16, the 'Transfer or Reset iPhone' option may appear differently but will still lead to the same reset options.
  • •In iOS 17, the interface is slightly more streamlined, but the reset path remains unchanged.

For iOS 15

Similar steps apply, but the layout may differ slightly.
  • •The 'Transfer or Reset iPhone' option may be labeled differently, but the functionality is the same.
  • •Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS 15 for best results.

Method 2: Using Recovery Mode

If you're unable to access the settings due to system issues, you can reset settings through Recovery Mode.
  • •Step 1: Connect your iPhone to a computer and open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later).
  • •Step 2: Force restart your iPhone: For iPhone 8 or later, quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
  • •Step 3: On your computer, you will see options to 'Restore' or 'Update'. Choose 'Restore'.
  • •Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your device. This method will erase all data, so ensure you have a backup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while resetting settings, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to Reset Settings' - Solution: Ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version and restart your iPhone before attempting again.
  • •Issue: Settings not resetting - Fix: Check for any restrictions under Settings > Screen Time that may prevent changes.
  • •Problem: Device stuck in recovery mode - Workaround: Force restart your iPhone by following the appropriate button sequence for your model.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - iPhone does not support keyboard shortcuts for settings.
  • •Hidden feature: Use Siri to quickly access settings by saying 'Open Settings' or 'Reset Settings'.
  • •Tip: Regularly check for iOS updates under Settings > General > Software Update to avoid issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For best results, always ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version before performing a reset.