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How to perform a factory reset on your Fairphone

A factory reset will return your Fairphone to its original settings, erasing all personal data and downloaded apps. This is a helpful step if you are experiencing software issues, selling your device, or want to start fresh.

ⓘ These steps require Android 13 or later. If you are not sure which version your Fairphone is running, see How to check and update your software version.

What you need before you begin

How to reset your Fairphone using the settings menu

To perform a factory reset directly from your phone settings:

  1. On your Fairphone, go to Settings > System > Reset options.
  2. Tap Erase all data (factory reset).
    • If you use an eSIM, tap Erase eSIMs to remove it from your device.
  3. Tap Erase all data.
    • If prompted, enter your PIN, pattern, or password, then tap Erase all data to confirm.

How to reset your Fairphone using Android recovery

These steps are intended for advanced owners. Where possible, we recommend using the settings menu steps above instead.

If you cannot access the settings menu on your phone, you can perform a reset through Android recovery:

  1. Turn off your Fairphone.
  2. Press and hold the Power and Volume up buttons at the same time.
    • When you see the Fairphone logo, release both buttons.
  3. Press the Volume up or Volume down button to navigate to Wipe data/factory reset. Press the Power button once to select it.
  4. Press the Volume up or Volume down button to navigate to Factory data reset. Press the Power button once to select it.
    • When the reset finishes, Data wipe complete will appear at the bottom of your screen.
  5. Press the Volume up or Volume down button to navigate to Reboot system now.
  6. Press the Power button one final time to restart your phone.

Understanding Factory Reset Protection

Factory Reset Protection prevents unauthorized access to your Fairphone if your phone is lost, stolen, or reset without your permission.

How to activate Factory Reset Protection +
  1. Add a Google account to your Fairphone.
  2. Set up a secure screen lock.

Once activated, you must enter your previous screen lock and Google account credentials during the setup wizard after any factory reset.

How to turn off Factory Reset Protection +

To turn off Factory Reset Protection, remove all Google accounts from your Fairphone before resetting. For detailed instructions, visit Add or remove an account on Android on Google Account Help.

What to do if you cannot sign in to your Google account +

If you cannot log in to your Google account, visit Can't sign in to your Google Account on Google Account Help for assistance.

What to do if you have a second-hand Fairphone +

If Factory Reset Protection is active on a pre-owned device, contact the previous owner to remove their Google account from the phone.

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