How do I factory reset my disabled iPhone without a computer?

Answered by Robert Flynn

If you find yourself in a situation where your iPhone is disabled and you don’t have access to a computer, there is still a way to factory reset it. The method I’m about to explain involves using the hard reset feature on your iPhone. Please note that this process will erase all data on your device, so make sure you have a backup if there’s any important information you want to save.

The steps to perform a hard reset may vary depending on the model of your iPhone. I’ll provide instructions for different iPhone models:

1. iPhone 6s and earlier: Press and hold the Home button and the Sleep/Wake (or Side) button simultaneously. Keep holding both buttons until you see the Apple logo appear on the screen. Once the logo appears, release the buttons and your iPhone will restart.

2. iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold the Side button and the Volume Down button simultaneously. Keep holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the buttons and your iPhone will restart.

3. iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X: Press and release the Volume Up button, then quickly press and release the Volume Down button. After that, press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears on the screen. Release the button and your iPhone will restart.

4. iPhone 11, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and newer: Press and release the Volume Up button, then quickly press and release the Volume Down button. Afterward, press and hold the Side (or Power) button until the Apple logo appears. Release the button and your iPhone will restart.

Performing a hard reset can sometimes resolve issues with a disabled iPhone, but keep in mind that it won’t remove the passcode or activation lock. If your iPhone is disabled due to entering the wrong passcode multiple times, you may need to connect it to a computer with iTunes or Finder to restore it.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to factory reset a disabled iPhone without a computer, you can try performing a hard reset using the steps mentioned above. However, it’s important to remember that this method will erase all data on your device, so make sure to have a backup beforehand.