A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, is one of the most effective ways to restore a Google Pixel smartphone to its default settings, troubleshoot issues, or prepare the device for sale.
Performing a factory reset wipes all personal data, installed apps, and settings, and it returns the device to its original state. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset a Google Pixel smartphone.
Back up Important Data
Before you proceed with the factory reset, it’s crucial to ensure that your important data is backed up. This includes contacts, messages, photos, and other personal information. You can use Google Drive, Google Photos, or any other preferred backup or cloud service to secure your data.
Once you have secured your backup files, you may go ahead and proceed with the factory reset on your device.
There are two methods to factory reset a Google Pixel smartphone: through the phone’s settings or via Android Recovery Mode.
A. Factory Reset via Settings
This method is more commonly used and is recommended if your device needs to be restored to its factory state but still responsive.
To factory reset your Google Pixel smartphone via settings menu, just follow these steps:
1. Open the ‘Settings’ app.
2. Scroll down and tap on ‘System’.
3. In certain models, you may have to select ‘Advanced’ to expand the options. Otherwise, skip to the next step.
4. Tap on ‘Reset options’.
5. Choose ‘Erase all data (factory reset)’.
6. Tap ‘Erase all data’.
7. If prompted, enter your screen lock or password to proceed.
8. Choose “Erase all data” again to confirm your decision.
B. Factory Reset via Android Recovery Mode
If the device isn’t turning on or your settings are inaccessible, then you will need to factory reset using Android Recovery Mode. Just follow these steps whenever you’re ready:
1. Turn off your Google Pixel smartphone by pressing and holding the Power button, and then tap on ‘Power off’.
2. Press and hold the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously until you see the Fastboot Mode screen.
3. Use the Volume Down button to navigate the menu and highlight ‘Recovery Mode’.
4. Press the Power button to select ‘Recovery Mode’. You will see a screen with an Android robot and an exclamation mark.
5. Press and hold the Power button, then briefly press the Volume Up button to access the Android Recovery menu.
6. Use the Volume Down button to navigate to ‘Wipe data/factory reset’ and select it using the Power button.
7. Confirm your action by navigating to ‘Factory data reset’ using the Volume buttons and pressing the Power button to confirm.
8. Once the factory reset process is complete, select ‘Reboot system now’ in the Android Recovery menu and confirm with the Power button.
After performing a factory reset, your Google Pixel smartphone will restart and prompt you to set it up as new.
You can restore your backed-up data after the initial setup process is complete.
A factory reset can resolve various software issues that could not be rectified by basic workarounds. This reset is deemed among the most effective ways to troubleshoot a problematic device that requires a clean fresh start.
FAQs
1. Will a factory reset delete all my data on a Google Pixel smartphone?
Yes, a factory reset will erase all personal data, installed apps, and settings on your Google Pixel device. Therefore, it’s essential to perform a backup of your important data before proceeding with a factory reset.
2. How do I recover data after a factory reset on a Google Pixel smartphone?
If you have backed up your data using Google Drive, Google Photos, or another cloud service, you can restore your data by signing in to your Google account during the initial setup process after the factory reset. However, if you didn’t back up your data before the reset, it’s challenging to recover it, and you may need to seek professional help from data recovery specialists.
3. Does a factory reset remove viruses or malware on a Google Pixel smartphone?
Yes, a factory reset can remove viruses or malware from your device. By erasing all data and settings, the factory reset process effectively deletes malicious software, restoring your device to its original state.
4. Can a factory reset fix software issues on a Google Pixel smartphone?
A factory reset can resolve many software-related issues by eliminating any corrupted data, restoring your device’s software to its default settings, and removing potentially troublesome apps.
5. Will a factory reset remove the lock screen or unlock my Google Pixel smartphone?
A factory reset will not bypass screen lock settings, such as PIN, pattern, or password, without the proper authentication. In addition, if the device is logged into a Google account and factory reset protection (FRP) is enabled, you’ll still need the corresponding Google account credentials during the initial setup to verify your identity.
6. Can I undo a factory reset on a Google Pixel smartphone?
Unfortunately, once you perform a factory reset, the process is irreversible. You cannot undo the reset, which is why it’s essential to back up your data before proceeding with a factory reset.
7. How long does a factory reset take on a Google Pixel smartphone?
A factory reset can take anywhere between a few minutes to an hour, depending on the amount of data and the specific device model. Generally, it should not take more than 30 minutes in most cases, but the process may vary.
