Selling
How to prepare your device for sale
Selling your phone or tablet is easier when it is ready for the next user. Follow these security and hardware steps to ensure the buyer can activate and use the device immediately.
Selling · 2 min read · Last updated March 24, 2026
Failing to sign out of your personal account will activate Activation Lock, meaning the buyer (or our verification center) cannot set up the device. Go to Settings, tap your name/profile, and choose Sign Out. Verify that "Find My" (Apple) or "Device Protection" (Google) is completely disabled.
Make sure your photos, contacts, documents, and messages are backed up to iCloud, Google Drive, or your personal computer. Once the device is reset, your data cannot be recovered.
Once accounts are signed out, go to System Settings and choose "Erase All Content and Settings". This restores the device to its original factory state. Do not turn the device back on and complete the startup wizard; leave it on the initial welcome/hello screen for the next owner.
Check the SIM tray and remove any physical nano-SIM cards or microSD expansion cards. If you use an eSIM, make sure to delete the eSIM profile from the device during the reset process.
Useful information
An Activation Locked device is returned to the seller at their own expense.
Clean the screen, ports, and camera lenses with a microfiber cloth before packing.
Was this article helpful?
Loading feedback...