[Full Guide] How to Factory Restore iPhone with Broken Screen?
"How do I factory reset my iPhone that the screen broke on so I can trade it in?"
- From Apple Support Community
If you plan to sell your broken screen iPhone, you must erase all data from the device. This step is essential to protect your personal information. After all, there is no way to know if the phone will be repaired, or if someone will access your data. Although it may seem tricky to factory restore iPhone with broken screen, don't worry, you will find a solution here!
In this article, we will discuss four tested methods to erase a broken iPhone easily and quickly. We provide step-by-step guides for these methods so you don't have to worry about how to do them.
Way 1: Erase iPhone with Broken Screen via Eraser for iOS
To erase your broken screen iPhone, you can rely on reliable tools like MobiKin Eraser for iOS. This software allows you to easily erase data on iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11/X/8/7/6 with just one click. The tool deeply scans your iOS device and securely erases all existing and previously deleted data.
Once Eraser for iOS erases your device, the data is completely unrecoverable. Therefore, if your broken screen iPhone contains important information, it is highly recommended that you back up the files to a computer, cloud, or other storage solutions before erasing.
Key Features of MobiKin Eraser for iOS:
- Completely erase all data on iPhone, even if the screen is broken.
- Permanently erase deleted files and private data with a 0% recovery rate.
- Delete a wide range of data including contacts, SMS, call logs, media files, apps, and more.
- Choose from three progressive erasing levels to suit your needs.
- Works with all iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models, including the latest iPhone 16 and iOS 18.
How do I erase iPhone with broken screen by using Eraser for iOS?
Step 1: Launch Eraser for iOS
First download and install Eraser for iOS on your computer. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable. If your iPhone has been connected before, the computer will recognize it immediately and the device information will be displayed on the software interface.
If this is the first time you connect your iPhone to this computer, you will see a prompt on your iPhone asking "Trust this computer?" Click "Trust" to allow the connection. If the screen is severely damaged and unresponsive, you can try other ways to control the damaged iPhone.
Step 2: Select the erasing option
In the main interface of Eraser for iOS, click the "Erase" option. Next, select the security level based on your preference - Low, Medium, or High. Type "Delete" in the confirmation box, click "OK", and then click "Erase" to continue.
Step 3: Start the erasing process
Once you complete the setup, the software will begin scanning and erasing your iPhone. Make sure the device remains unlocked throughout the process. Once the erasing is complete, your iPhone will automatically restart.
Way 2: Factory Restore iPhone with Broken Screen through iCloud
Using iCloud's Find My iPhone feature is a reliable way to remotely erase iPhone data, especially if the screen is broken. This method not only erases data but also protects it from unauthorized access. (How to Turn Off Find My iPhone without Password?)
Remember that Find My iPhone must have been activated on the iPhone before the screen became unresponsive.
Here's how to factory reset an iPhone with a broken screen using iCloud:
- Open a web browser on any device and go to iCloud.com. Sign in with your Apple ID and password to access your account.
- Once logged in, select the "Find My iPhone" option from the menu.
- Select the iPhone you want to erase from the list of devices and click the "Erase iPhone" button.
- Confirm your choice to start the erasing process.
- Wait for the device to be fully reset.
Pros:
- No computer required — an internet connection is enough.
- Safely erases all personal data.
Cons:
- Requires access to your iCloud account and password.
- Erases all data, so make sure to back it up beforehand.
Way 3: Factory Reset Broken iPhone by iTunes
If your iPhone screen is unresponsive, you can still erase its data using the latest version of iTunes on your computer. This method is efficient and reliable.
Steps to factory reset an iPhone with a broken screen using iTunes:
- Open iTunes on your PC or Mac. Make sure you have the latest version installed.
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using an Apple Lightning cable.
- In iTunes, navigate to the "Summary" tab and click "Restore iPhone."
- A pop-up message will appear asking for confirmation. Select "Restore" to proceed with the factory reset.
- Wait for your iPhone to restart. Once the process is complete, your device will be restored to factory settings.
Pros:
- A reliable method when paired with iTunes.
- Allows you to back up and sync important data to avoid losing valuable information.
Cons:
- Requires a computer with internet access and iTunes installed.
- All data on the device will be erased, so make sure you have a backup.
Way 4: Clear iPhone with Broken Screen via Recovery Mode
If your broken iPhone has become completely unresponsive, you should be able to wipe its data using the Recovery Mode.
Steps to wipe a broken iPhone using Recovery Mode:
1: Put Your iPhone in Recovery Mode
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and release the Volume Up button, press and release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 7: Press and hold both the Side button and the Volume Down button at the same time, then continue holding until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 6S or earlier: Press and hold both the Home button and the Top (or Side)button at the same time, and keep holding until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
2: Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone with a damaged screen to your computer.
3: When the "Restore or Update" screen appears, choose "Restore iPhone".
4: It will take some time (more than 15 minutes) for the software to download. If your iPhone gets stuck in Recovery Mode, you'll need to repeat the process.
If you prefer an easier solution and want to avoid the complexity of this process, you can use MobiKin Eraser for iOS, which simplifies the task.
Pros:
- This method is reliable and guarantees that your iPhone will be restored to its original factory settings.
- This method is particularly useful if you need to remove the passcode from your device.
Cons:
- You may need some additional technical help to complete this process.
Bonus Tip: Back up Your Broken iPhone before Factory Reset
If you're wondering how to back up data from an iPhone with a broken screen, then MobiKin Assistant for iOS is a highly recommended solution. This tool simplifies the process of transferring data between iOS devices and computers, making it a solid choice even if your iPhone screen is unresponsive.
In just a few simple steps, you can back up your iPhone's data to your computer, ensuring that your important files remain safe. The software also supports selective data transfer, allowing you to choose specific files or categories to back up, providing greater flexibility and convenience.
In addition, MobiKin Assistant for iOS provides a way to access your data without erasing it, even on a broken screen. It also takes data security very seriously, using advanced encryption protocols to protect your sensitive information throughout the transfer process.
Conclusion
Now that you know all the ways to factory reset an iPhone with a broken screen, you have the tools at your disposal to effectively resolve this sticky situation. Whether you choose to use iCloud, iTunes, or dedicated software, there is a solution for everyone, catering to different needs and preferences.
Of all these options, we highly recommend MobiKin Eraser for iOS. With its impressive 99% success rate and simple steps, it is the most reliable and user-friendly way to erase an iPhone with a broken screen.
Related Articles:
4 Best Ways to Recover Data from Broken iPhone [2025]
4 Ways to Transfer Data from Broken iPhone to New iPhone
[Top 6 Ways] How to Erase iPhone without Passcode
[Unrecoverable!] How to Permanently Delete Messages on iPhone
