Resetting your phone to factory settings is a radical, but sometimes necessary step. It helps get rid of viruses, speed up the device after long use, or prepare the smartphone for sale. However, this process has nuances: from data loss to the risk of “blocking” the device if done incorrectly.

In this article you will find step-by-step guide for all modern versions Android (from 10 to 14), including methods of resetting through settings, Recovery Mode and even with help ADB for "unresponsive" devices. We will also look at which models Samsung, Xiaomi and Google Pixel require additional actions when resetting (for example, mandatory account linking Google after the procedure).

Before you begin, answer the key question: do you just want to clean the system or are you preparing the phone to be transferred to another person? This determines whether you need to unlink accounts and delete the SIMcard.

1. Preparing for the reset: what you must do before you start

Even if it seems to you that there is no important data on the phone, neglect of preparation it can lead to the loss of photos, contacts or problems with activation after the reset. Let's start with the most important:

  • 📱 Create a backup copy. Use Google Disk (settings → System → Backup), Samsung Cloud (for devices Samsung) or third-party applications like Titanium Backup (requires root).
  • 🔒 Delete accounts. After resetting, some models (for example, Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 or Samsung Galaxy S23) will require you to enter the last account data Google/Mi to unlock.
  • 📶 Disconnect SIM-card and SD-card. On some devices (for example, Huawei), resetting may erase data on the external drive.
  • 🔋 Charge your phone to at least 50%. Interrupting the process due to low battery can result in software failures.

Pay special attention to applications with two-factor authentication (for example, Google Authenticator or Telegram). If you do not transfer the codes before resetting, you risk losing access to your accounts. For Google Authenticator export the backup copy through the app menu.

⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 12+ i function Factory Reset Protection (FRP) after the reset you will need to enter the account data Googlethat was linked before the procedure. If you forgot the password, restore it to reset after accounts.google.com.
📊 How often do you reset your phone to factory defaults? settings?
Never
Once every 1-2 years
Only before sale
More often than once a year

2. Method 1: Reset through the settings menu (the safest)

This method is suitable for operating deviceswhen the phone turns on and responds to touches. The interface may differ slightly depending on the version Android and shell (One UI, MIUI, ColorOS etc.), but the general logic is preserved.

For most smartphones, the path looks like this:

  1. Open Settings (gear in the application menu).
  2. Go to section System → Reset settings (or General settings → Reset on Xiaomi).
  3. Select Delete all data (factory reset).
  4. Confirm the action by entering PINcode or pattern.
  5. Press Erase everything and wait for the reboot (may take 5-15 minutes).

On Samsung Galaxy (for example, Galaxy S22 or Galaxy A54) the path will be like this: Settings → Device maintenance → Reset. On Google Pixel (for example, Pixel 7 Pro) — Settings → System → Reset options.

Make sure the phone is charged|Create a backup|Remember Google account details|Disable SIM card (optional)-->

⚠️ Attention: On some devices Xiaomi (for example, Poco X5 Pro), after resetting through the menu, you may need to re-link your account Mi, even if you unlinked it in advance. Check this in the section Settings → Xiaomi Account.

3. Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone does not turn on)

If the smartphone stuck on the logodoes not respond to buttons or is locked with a password that you forgot, this mode allows you to reset the settings without access to the main interface. However, there are risks: incorrect actions can lead to. to Recovery Mode. This mode allows you to reset settings without accessing the main interface. However, there are risks here: incorrect actions can lead to loss of access to internal memory or even "bricking" the device.

Instructions for most Android devices:

  1. Turn off the phone (if it is frozen - hold down the power button for 10–15 seconds).
  2. Hold the combination of buttons to enter Recovery:
    • Samsung: Power + Volume up + Bixby (on older models - Power + Volume up + Home).
    • Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco: Power + Volume up.
    • Google Pixel, OnePlus, Realme: Power + Volume down.
  • When the logo appears, release the buttons. After a few seconds you will see the menu Recovery.
  • Use the volume buttons to navigate and the power button to select an item Wipe data/factory reset.
  • Confirm the action by selecting Yes or Confirm.
  • After completion, select Reboot system now.

    • On some devices (for example, Huawei or Honor) menu Recovery may be in Chinese. In this case, look for the characters corresponding to "data reset" ("" or"").

    Brand Combination for Recovery Features
    Samsung Power + Volume up + Bixby On new models (Galaxy S23), you may need to connect to a PC to unlock OEM.
    Xiaomi Power + Volume up In the menu Recovery there may be an item Connect with MiAssistant —do not select it unnecessarily.
    Google Pixel Power + Volume down On Pixel 6/7 after reset, you will need to re-set Titan M (security chip).
    OnePlus Power + Volume down On OnePlus 11 menu Recovery may be in English even on Russian-language firmware.
    What to do if Recovery Mode does not open?

    If the button combination does not work, try:

    1. Connect the phone to charge for 10-15 minutes, then try again.

    2. Use the ADB-command to reboot in Recovery:

    adb reboot recovery

    3. data-i="170">you first need to hold Samsung you need to press first Volume up + Bixby, and then, without releasing, press Power.

    4 Method 3: Reset via ADB (for experienced ones). users)

    If the standard methods do not work (for example, the phone freezes when loading Recovery), you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This method requires a computer, a USB cable and enabled debugging USB (which is unlikely if the phone is no longer working. However, it is useful for devices with). damaged screen or non-standard firmware.

    Instructions:

    1. Install ADB on PC (download Platform Tools from the site Google).
    2. Connect the phone to the computer and open the command line line (cmd) in the folder with ADB.
    3. Enter the command to check the connection: 
      adb devices

      If the device is displayed, continue.

    4. Reset: 
      adb shell recovery --wipe_data

      Or for new versions Android:

      adb shell am broadcast -a android.intent.action.MASTER_CLEAR
    5. Wait for completion and restart the phone: 
      adb reboot

      6. On some devices (for example, Sony Xperia) for ADBreset requires rights root. If the command does not work, check whether debugging is enabled USB in the developer settings (Settings → About phone → Build number - tap 7 times to unlock).

      1. Reinstall drivers (use Google USB Driver or official brand drivers).

      2. Change the USB cable (some cables are for charging only).

      3. Enable PTP (file transfer) mode when connected to a PC.-->

      Manufacturers often modify the reset process, adding additional security measures or simplifying the interface. Let's look at the key nuances for top brands.

      Samsung (One UI)

      On devices Samsung (for example, Galaxy S24 or Galaxy A34) after a reset, you may be asked to enter your account data Samsung, even if you have not used it. This is part of the system Samsung Knox. To avoid problems:

      • Before resetting, unlink your account Samsung in Settings → Accounts and backup.
      • If the phone has already been reset and requires an account, use the official unlock tool Find My Mobile.

      Xiaomi (MIUI)

      On Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco (for example, Xiaomi 13T or Redmi Note 12 Pro+) there is protection Mi Account. After the reset, through Recovery the phone may require you to enter the data of the last linked account. Solutions: Mi. Solutions:

      • Unlink the account in Settings → Xiaomi Account → Log Out to reset.
      • If you forgot the data, use the official service account.xiaomi.com for recovery.

      Google Pixel

      On Pixel (for example, Pixel 8 Pro or Pixel 7a) after the reset, you may need to re-configure the security chip Titan M. This is normal - follow the instructions on the screen. Also note that a Pixel reset via Recovery can erase data on the SDcard, even if you have not formatted it.

      Huawei and Honor

      On devices without services Google (for example, Huawei Mate 50 Pro) after resetting, you will need to re-configure Huawei ID. If you have forgotten your data, restore it via id.huawei.com. Also, on some models, a reset may return the firmware to the Chinese version - be prepared to reinstall the global one. On devices with a chip (for example, one) the reset may take up to 30 minutes. Do not interrupt the process, even if the screen goes dark - wait for vibration or a sound signal. ROM.

      💡

      On devices with Android 13+ and chip Titan M (For example, Google Pixel 7) Resetting may take up to 30 minutes. Do not interrupt the process, even if the screen goes dark - wait for vibration or a sound signal.

      6. What to do after the reset: first steps

      After a successful reset, the phone will return to its out-of-the-box state. However, there are several important actions that will help avoid problems in the future:

      • 🔄 Update the firmware. Go to Settings → System → Software update and install the latest security patches.
      • 🔐 Set up a screen lock. Use PINcode or biometrics (fingerprint/face), but not a pattern - it’s easier to forget.
      • ☁️ Restore data from backup. On Samsung this can be done via Samsung Cloud, on other devices - via Google Drive.
      • 📱 Reconfigure accounts. Add Google, Samsung/Mi/Huawei ID and other necessary services.
      • 🛡️ Install an antivirus (optional). For example, Malwarebytes or built-in Google Play Protect.

      If you reset the phone before selling it, do not forget:

      • Delete all SIMcards and SD-cards.
      • Disconnect the device from your account Google via myaccount.google.com/device-activity.
      • Erase data on connected Bluetoothdevices (headphones, watches, etc.).
      ⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 14 and newer, after a reset, the Private Space (closed space) function may automatically turn on. Check its contents in Settings → Security → Private Spaceto avoid file loss.

      7. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

      Even when following instructions, users often encounter problems. Here are the most common errors and their solutions:

      Error Cause Solution
      Phone does not turn on after reset The process is interrupted or the battery is low Charge the phone for 30–60 minutes, then try turning it on. If it doesn’t help, repeat the reset via Recovery.
      Requires old account Google after reset Activated Factory Reset Protection (FRP) Enter the details of the last linked account. If you forgot, restore via accounts.google.com.
      Sensor does not work after reset Firmware or driver failure Reset again. If the problem remains, flash the phone via Fastboot.
      Chinese language has appeared in Recovery Firmware with regional restrictions Look for items by hieroglyphs (reset is usually the 4th or 5th item). Or flash the global version ROM.
      SD-the card has become unreadable Reset has formatted the external drive Connect the card to the PC and use utilities like Recuva to restore data.

      If after resetting the phone begins to work slower than before, the reason may be:

      • 🔋 Worn out battery —check its health through AccuBattery.
      • 🗑️ Fragmented memory —perform optimization manually or install SD Maid.
      • 🤖 Outdated firmware — update Android to the latest version.
      💡

      If photos are lost after resetting, check the folder DCIM/.thumbnails —sometimes thumbnails are saved even after cleaning.

      8. Alternatives to a hard reset

      It is not always necessary to erase all data. If the goal is to speed up your phone or fix minor errors, try less radical methods:

      • 🧹 Clear cache: Go to Settings → Storage → Cache data and press Clear. This will not delete personal files, but will free up space.
      • 🔄 Reset network settings: Useful if there are connection problems or Wi-Fi. Path: Settings → System → Reset → Reset network settings.
      • 📱 Safe Mode: Press the power button → hold Turn off the power → select Safe Mode. In this mode, only system applications work, which will help identify the culprit of the brakes.
      • 🛠️ Recovery via Smart Switch (for Samsung): The app can fix errors without a full reset.

    If the problem is in a specific application (for example, Instagram or Telegram it constantly crashes), instead of resetting the phone:

    1. Clear the cache applications in Settings → Applications → [Application name] → Storage → Clear cache.
    2. Uninstall updates (if it is a system application).
    3. Reinstall the application from Google Play.

    FAQ: Answers for frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to reset the phone without losing data?

    No, a full factory reset always erases user data (photos, messages, applications). However, you can:

    • Create a backup via Google Drive or Samsung Cloud.
    • Copy files to a PC or SDcard manually.
    • Use applications like Swift Backup (requires root).

    If the goal is to speed up the phone, try partial wipe (see the section "Alternatives to a full reset").

    After the reset, the phone asks for the account of the previous owner. What should I do?

    This works. protection Factory Reset Protection (FRP). Solutions:

    1. If the phone is yours, but you have forgotten your account information, restore access via accounts.google.com.
    2. If the phone was purchased second-hand, contact the seller and ask him to enter the data or unlink the device via myaccount.google.com/device-activity.
    3. For Samsung use the service Find My Mobile (the previous owner's account will be required).

    ⚠️ Be careful: Services offering “FRP bypass for money” are often fraudulent. On new devices (for example, Samsung Galaxy S23), bypassing without account data is almost impossible.

    How long does a reset take?

    The time depends on the model and the amount of data:

    • Budget phones (for example, Redmi 9A): 3–7 minutes.
    • Flagships (for example, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra): 10–20 minutes.
    • Device with damaged memory: up to 30–40 minutes (if the process takes too long, do not interrupt it!).

    If the reset takes more than an hour and the progress indicator does not move, the phone may be frozen. In this case:

    1. Wait another 30 minutes (sometimes the process ends without visual changes).
    2. If that doesn’t help, perform a forced reboot (hold down the power button for 15-20 seconds) and repeat the reset.
    Is it possible to cancel the reset after it has started process?

    No, after confirming the reset, the process is irreversible. An interruption (for example, removing the battery or a forced shutdown) can lead to:

    • Loss of all data without the possibility of recovery.
    • Damage to system files and "bricking" of the phone (firmware will be required via Fastboot or Odin).
    • The appearance errors in the operation of the sensor, camera or network.

    If the reset has already begun, wait for it to complete. If the phone is stuck on the logo for more than 30 minutes, try:

    1. Connect to charging and wait another 10-15 minutes.
    2. Reset again after Recovery Mode.
    How to reset your phone if you forgot the pattern key?

    There are several ways:

    1. Through your account Google (works on Android 4.4–7.0):
      • Enter the wrong key 5 times until the button appears Forgot your pattern key?.
      • Log in to the account Googlethat was linked to the phone.
    2. Via Recovery Mode (works on all versions):
      • Reset to factory settings settings (see section "Method 2").
      • ⚠️ All data will be deleted!
  • Via Find My Device (for Android 8.0+):

    On Samsung you can also use the service Find My Mobile to unlock.