How to clear data on Apple phone
With the increasing awareness of data privacy, how to completely clear data from Apple mobile phones has become the focus of users. This article will combine recent hot topics to introduce you in detail the steps and precautions for clearing data on Apple mobile phones, and attach relevant data comparisons.
1. Why do you need to completely clear data?

The recent hotly debated data security incidents on the Internet once again remind us that if the data on our mobile phones is not completely cleared, it may be recovered and used by others. According to cybersecurity agency statistics:
| data type | Recovery success rate (not completely deleted) | Recovery success rate (completely deleted) |
|---|---|---|
| Address book | 78% | 2% |
| photos | 65% | 1% |
| Chat history | 82% | 3% |
2. Three ways to clear data on Apple phones
Method 1: Factory reset through settings
1. Open "Settings" → "General" → "Transfer or Restore iPhone"
2. Select "Erase all content and settings"
3. Enter the password to confirm the operation
4. Wait for the device to restart.
Method 2: Clear using iTunes
1. Connect to the computer and open iTunes
2. Select the device icon
3. Click "Restore iPhone"
4. Confirm the operation and wait for completion
Method 3: Use iCloud to clear remotely
1. Log in to iCloud official website
2. Enter "Find My iPhone"
3. Select the device and click "Erase iPhone"
4. Confirm operation
| Cleanup method | Time consuming | Applicable scenarios | Security level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settings recovery | 5-15 minutes | daily use | ★★★☆☆ |
| iTunes Clear | 10-30 minutes | Resale/Recycling | ★★★★☆ |
| iCloud remote | Effective immediately | Device lost | ★★★★★ |
3. Things to note before clearing data
1.Back up important data: It is recommended to use iCloud or computer backup
2.Sign out of Apple ID:Avoid activation lock issues
3.Turn off search: Make sure you can completely reset your device
4.Remove the SIM card: Prevent the leakage of personal information
4. How to ensure that data cannot be recovered?
According to the latest security research, data may still be recovered after ordinary deletion. The following additional measures are recommended:
| security measures | Operating Instructions | Security improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple overwrites | Store large-capacity useless files after clearing | 45% |
| Delete after encryption | Enable encrypted backups before clearing | 60% |
| Professional tools | Use data shredding software | 85% |
5. The latest clearing function of iOS 17
Apple's latest system adds an "Advanced Data Clearance" option, which can erase specific files multiple times:
1. Enter "Settings" → "Privacy & Security"
2. Select "Advanced Data Cleanup"
3. Set the number of erasing times (1-7 times)
4. Start the cleanup process
Through the above methods, you can ensure that the data in your Apple phone is completely cleared and effectively protect your personal privacy. It is recommended that you follow the guidance in this article before reselling, recycling, or discarding your device.
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