Why does resetting iPhone take so long?

Answered by Edward Huber

Resetting an iPhone can sometimes take a while due to various reasons. Here are some possible factors that can contribute to the length of time it takes to reset an iPhone:

1. Size of Data: If your iPhone contains a large amount of data, such as photos, videos, and apps, it can take longer to reset. The more data there is to erase and reconfigure, the longer the reset process will take. This is especially true if you have never reset your iPhone before or if you haven’t done it in a long time.

2. Software Updates: When resetting your iPhone, it may also need to update its software to the latest version. If there are significant software updates available, the reset process will take longer as it needs to download and install the updates before completing the reset.

3. Device Model and Age: The model and age of your iPhone can also impact the time it takes to reset. Older iPhone models with slower processors and less RAM may take longer to complete the reset process compared to newer models with faster hardware.

4. Network Connection: If you’re resetting your iPhone and it requires downloading software updates, a stable and fast internet connection is important. Slow or unstable internet connections can prolong the reset process as the device struggles to download the necessary updates.

5. System Errors: In some cases, there may be underlying system errors or software glitches on your iPhone that can cause the reset process to take longer than usual. These errors can be related to corrupted files, conflicts between apps, or other issues that need to be resolved during the reset process.

If your iPhone continues to attempt resetting for an extended period of time, it’s possible that there was an error during the reset process. In such cases, you can try using Recovery Mode to reset your iPhone. To enter Recovery Mode, follow these steps:

1. Connect your iPhone to a computer using a USB cable.
2. Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina or later).
3. Force restart your iPhone by pressing and holding the power button and either the volume up or down button simultaneously until the recovery mode screen appears.
4. You will see options to either update or restore your iPhone. Choose the “Restore” option to reset your iPhone to factory settings.

If resetting from Recovery Mode still doesn’t work and your iPhone is stuck in a continuous resetting loop, it’s possible that there is a hardware issue. In such cases, it’s recommended to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance.

It’s important to note that the reset process can vary for different iPhone models and software versions. The times mentioned here are general estimates, and actual reset times may vary depending on individual circumstances.