To remove all data from your phone, you can reset your phone to factory settings. Factory resets are also called “formatting” or “hard resets.” Important: Some of these steps only work on Android 14 and up. Learn how to update your Android version . Get ready to factory reset Important: A factory reset erases all your data from your phone. If you're resetting to fix an issue, we recommend first trying other solutions. Learn how to troubleshoot Android issues . To restore your data after you reset your phone, you must enter security info. When you enter the info, it shows that you or someone you trust did the reset. Be sure that you know a Google Account on the phone. Open your phone's Settings app. Tap Accounts . If you don't have the option to tap "Accounts," get help from your device manufacturer . You'll find a Google Account username. Open your phone's Settings app. Tap Accounts . If you don't have the option to tap "Accounts," get help from your device manufacturer . You'll find a Google Account username. Be sure that you know the password for the Google Account on the phone. To confirm, sign in to that account on another device or computer. If you don't remember the password, get sign-in help . If you've set a screen lock, be sure that you know your phone's PIN, pattern, or password. If you can't unlock your phone, learn what you can do . Tip: If you recently reset your Google Account password, wait 24 hours before you perform a factory reset. A factory data reset erases your data from the phone. While data stored in your Google Account can be restored, all apps and their data will be uninstalled. To be ready to restore your data, make sure that it's in your Google Account. Learn how to back up your data .

Android offers wallets the ability to back up transit cards with funds on them. For devices with Android 15 and up, if your wallet of choice uses this functionality, you’ll get a reminder to back them up before you proceed with factory reset. Please consult your wallet provider for further info about this feature. A factory reset can take up to an hour. Charge your phone to at least 70%. Connect your phone to Wi-Fi or your mobile network. When the factory reset completes, you must be connected to sign in to your Google Account. Factory reset your phone On most phones, you can reset your phone through the Settings app. If you can't open your phone's Settings app, you can try factory resetting your phone using its power and volume buttons. We recommend checking your manufacturer's support site for device-specific instructions. Related resources Add or remove an account on Android Can't sign in to your Google Account Can't unlock your phone Was this helpful? Need more help? Try these next steps: Learn how to use your Android device and get the most out of Google. Get step-by-step guides and instructional videos on how to set up your phone, customize your settings, and use apps.