Selling your old iPhone is one good way to generate extra money, but it’s important to take some steps to protect your data and ready your device for a new owner.
In this tutorial, we will show you all those things that are necessary to be done before selling an iPhone for smooth and secure selling.
1. Back up your data
Before you actually sell your iPhone, one of the most important steps is to back up all your data.
You don’t want to lose any precious photos, contacts, or messages and other personal files.
You can backup your iPhone using iCloud or connect it to your computer and back it up through iTunes.
• Through iCloud: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now.
• Through iTunes/Finder on Computer: Connect your iPhone to your computer; open iTunes or, if running macOS Catalina and later, open Finder; click Back Up Now.
2. Sign Out of iCloud, iTunes, and App Store
To not cause issues with the new owner, you must sign out of iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store. This will disconnect your Apple ID from the device.
From Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out. Tap Turn Off and enter your Apple ID password to turn off “Find My iPhone” and sign out.
3. Unpair All Devices and Accessories
If you are using an Apple Watch, other fitness bands, or other accessories, feel free to unpair these. This will basically reset options on Apple Watch, which is what you want done if you are passing that along also.
Open the Watch app on the iPhone.
Tap All Watches, then the info icon next to the watch.
Tap Unpair Apple Watch and confirm.
4. Turn Off Find My iPhone
“Find My iPhone” is helpful if a device gets lost, but it binds the device to an Apple ID account.
It’s important to turn off this feature before selling.
• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone and toggle it off.
5. Erase All Content and Settings
Back up your data and sign out of the device. Now, it is time to erase everything that was on your iPhone; this will restore the phone to factory settings, ready for the next user.
1. Go to Settings > General > Reset.
2. Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
3. Confirm the action and tap in your passcode when required.
That guarantees that when the iPhone is out of your hands, nobody will be able to access your data.
6. Remove Your SIM Card
Don’t be in such a hurry that you forget your SIM card! Your SIM card has personal information on it and links your number to that device, so remove it before giving the phone away.
Do this by using a SIM card removal tool or a paper clip to pop out the SIM tray, which is located on the side of your iPhone.
7. Check for Physical Damage, Clean the Device
Check your iPhone for scratches, cracks, or any other damages. Note any issues you find and disclose them when you describe it in the sale of the phone.
Also, make sure to clean the iPhone very well-just wipe down the screen and body with a microfiber cloth; never use harsh chemicals.
8. Get Accessories and Original Packaging Together – If Possible
If you still have the original packaging, charger, and other accessories, consider including these in the sale. A complete set will add value to your sale and be more attractive to potential buyers.
9. Do Your Research on Resale Value
Check eBay, Swappa, or Gazelle for an approximate market value of your iPhone.
The model and size, plus the condition, determine how much money it will bring in.
Doing your research puts you in a better position to know how to set a competitive price for it.
10. Choose a Safe Marketplace to Sell
Choose a reputable website or marketplace where you can sell your device. Some popular options include:
• EBay: Good for reaching the most people but seller fees can eat into your profit.
• Swappa: Secure marketplace, especially for tech gadgets.
• Apple Trade-In: If you’d prefer store credit, Apple’s trade-in program is a straight-forward experience.
• Local Selling Apps: It is expedient and will probably help skip shipping hassles. Examples include Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp.
Selling your iPhone is actually quite satisfying, if you will follow through with these necessary steps to protect your data and get the device ready for the next owner.
With these tips, you’ll be sure that your personal information stays private and that the iPhone will be ready in the best possible condition to sell.
