Reformat Android phones to fix issues or erase data. This is also called a factory reset process. It clears your files, apps, and personal info.
Always back up your data before formatting. Here, I will help you do everything safely. Follow the steps carefully to avoid mistakes.
also read: How to Access Your Android from Your PC in 2025
Reformat Android Phones Using Settings Menu
This is the easiest way to reformat Android phones. You can use this method when your phone is working.
Step 1: Backup All Your Important Data
Always backup before you reformat Android phones. Use Google Drive or Google Photos for backup. You can also use Samsung Cloud for Galaxy devices. Backup contacts, messages, apps, and files.
Step 2: Charge Your Phone and Connect to Wi-Fi
Plug in your phone to avoid power issues. Connect to Wi-Fi to upload your data safely.
Step 3: Open Settings App on Your Phone
Swipe down from the top of the screen. Tap the gear icon to open settings. Some phones need two fingers to swipe.
Step 4: Find the Reset Option
Scroll down and tap on “System”. Samsung users must tap “General Management”. Now tap on “Reset” or “Reset Options”.
Step 5: Choose Factory Data Reset
Tap on “Factory data reset” or “Erase all data”. Read what will be deleted from your phone.
Step 6: Confirm the Reset Process
Scroll down and tap “Reset Phone” or “Reset”. Enter your PIN, password, or unlock pattern.
Step 7: Final Step to Erase Everything
Tap “Erase Everything” or “Delete All”. Your phone will now start formatting. This process may take 30 to 60 minutes.
Reformat Android Phones Using Recovery Mode
This method is helpful if your phone is locked. Also works if your phone is stuck or frozen.
Step 1: Know When to Use This Method
Use this when the phone won’t start properly. Use it if the screen is locked or frozen.
Step 2: Try Backing Up Data If Possible
Sometimes you can still back up using Google Drive. But if the phone doesn’t turn on, backup is not possible.
Step 3: Turn Off the Phone First
Press and hold the power button. Tap “Power Off” to shut it down. Some phones ask for a PIN before turning off.
Step 4: Find Your Recovery Mode Key Combination
Different phones have different key combinations:
- Samsung: Volume Up + Home + Power
- Pixel: Volume Down + Power
- Nexus: Volume Up + Volume Down + Power
- Others: Try Volume Down + Power or Power + Home
Step 5: Enter Recovery Mode
Press and hold the key combination. Release buttons when Android logo or menu appears.
Step 6: Use Volume Buttons to Navigate
Use Volume Down to go down in the menu. Use Volume Up to go up. Press the Power button to select options.
Step 7: Select Wipe Data or Factory Reset
Choose “Wipe data/factory reset” from the menu. Press the Power button to confirm your selection.
Step 8: Confirm Deletion of All Data
Select “Yes” or “Factory data reset” option. Press Power again to confirm. The phone will now begin the reset.
Step 9: Wait Until Process Is Complete
Your phone may take 30 minutes to reset. When done, the message “Data wipe complete” will appear.
Step 10: Reboot Your Android Device
Select “Reboot system now”. Press the Power button to restart the device.
Important Things to Do Before You Reset
Follow this checklist before you reformat Android phones. These steps protect your data and account.
1. Backup Everything to Cloud Services
Use Google Drive for all files and folders. Use Google Photos for pictures and videos. Turn on “Backup and Sync” from settings.
2. Backup Apps and Settings on Samsung
Samsung users can use Samsung Cloud. Go to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Backup Data. Tap “Back Up” to save everything.
3. Sign Out of All Accounts
Sign out from Google, email, and wallet apps. This helps to protect your privacy. Also, turn off the “Find My Device” option.
4. Unpair All Connected Devices
Remove smartwatches, headphones, and Bluetooth devices. This avoids future connection issues.
5. Remove SIM and Memory Cards
Remove your SIM card and SD card safely. This prevents data loss or card errors.
6. Note Down Google Login Details
You’ll need your Google account to restore data. Make sure you know your email and password.
When and Why to Reformat Android Phones
There are many reasons to reformat Android phones. Here are some common situations:
- Selling or Trading the Device: A reset keeps your personal data safe. No one can access your messages, files, or apps.
- Giving Your Phone to Someone Else: Format it before giving to family or friends. It clears everything and makes it like new.
- Fixing Performance Issues: Use reset if your phone is slow or frozen. It can also fix software problems and bugs.
- Forgot Your Password or Pattern: Recovery Mode helps when you forget the lock screen code.
- After Trying All Other Fixes: Reset should be your last option. Try restarting, clearing cache, or updating apps first.
How to Reformat Locked Phones: Special Instructions
If your phone is locked and you can’t access settings, follow these methods.
For Locked Samsung Devices (S8 and newer):
- Turn off the phone.
- Press Volume Up + Bixby + Power buttons.
- Wait for the logo, then enter the Recovery Menu.
- Select “Wipe data/factory reset”.
- Confirm with “Yes” and press Power.
- Select “Reboot system now” after reset is complete.
For Locked Google Pixel Devices:
- Turn off your phone.
- Press and hold Volume Down + Power buttons.
- Select “Recovery Mode” using Volume buttons.
- Press Power to enter Recovery Menu.
- Choose “Wipe data/factory reset”.
- Confirm and wait until data wipe is complete.
- Select “Reboot system now”.
These steps work when passwords are forgotten.
The Bottom Corner
To reformat Android phones, always follow the correct steps. Use the Settings menu when the phone is working. Use Recovery Mode when the phone is locked or frozen. It gives your phone a fresh and clean start.
