A factory reset is often performed in various scenarios, such as troubleshooting technical issues, preparing a device for sale, or removing a forgotten screen lock. However, many believe that factory resetting an Android phone results in a total loss of all data. Thankfully, that’s not always the case. This article explores how to reset an Android device without losing data, focusing on excellent methods and tools.
Disclaimer: there may be several affiliate links in the article, I will earn a small amount of commissions from that.
Table of Contents
- Can You Reset an Android without Losing Data?
- How to Reset a Locked Android without Losing Data
- Methods to Reset an Android Phone
- Conclusion
Part 1: Can You Reset an Android Without Losing Data?
Some Android devices allow users to perform a reset without losing stored data. To check if your device supports this feature:
- Open the Settings app and navigate to Backup > Reset > Reset Settings.
- If you see an option that says Reset Settings, this means you can reset the phone’s settings without losing personal data. However, if it says Reset Phone, this indicates that all data will be erased.
Back Up Your Data if You Can’t Reset without Losing Data
If your device doesn’t offer the “Reset Settings” option, it’s crucial to back up your data to Google before proceeding with a reset. Here’s how:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Google.
- Toggle the switch next to Contacts to back up your contacts.
- Wait for the sync to complete. You’ll see a message saying, “Last synced on…”.
- Log in to your Gmail account on a computer to ensure your contacts have been backed up.
- Now, you can safely proceed with a factory reset and restore your data afterward.
Tip: Always back up essential files, photos, and app data to Google Drive to ensure nothing important is lost during the reset.
Part 2: How to Reset a Locked Android without Losing Data
iMyFone LockWiper (Android) is a comprehensive tool designed to help Android users regain access to their devices effortlessly. Unlike conventional methods that risk losing all your data, LockWiper enables you to reset a locked Android phone without any data loss. Its user-friendly interface and powerful unlocking capabilities make it ideal for both tech enthusiasts and beginners. From removing PINs, passwords, patterns, and even biometric locks, to bypassing Google FRP locks on Samsung devices, iMyFone LockWiper offers a reliable, fast, and secure solution. This versatile tool ensures that you regain control over your device while keeping all your precious files, contacts, and app data safe.
Why Choose iMyFone LockWiper (Android)?
- Reset without Password: Unlocks Android devices without needing a password.
- Versatile Unlock Options: Removes PINs, passcodes, patterns, fingerprints, and face locks.
- Bypass Samsung Google FRP Lock: Offers a way to remove Samsung’s FRP lock without the password.
- Maintain Data Integrity: Keeps your files, apps, and settings intact while removing the screen lock.
Steps to Reset an Android Phone Without Losing Data Using LockWiper
- Download and Install: Download iMyFone LockWiper (Android) on your Windows computer and launch the program.
2. Select Mode: Choose the mode Remove without Data Loss and click Start.
4. Connect Your Device: Select your device’s information and download the corresponding data package. Then, connect your Android device to the computer.
5. Unlock Your Device: Follow the on-screen instructions to start unlocking your device without losing data.
6. Reset Complete: Your phone will be unlocked, and your data will remain safe.
User Review: Many users have praised iMyFone LockWiper (Android) for its effectiveness and ease of use, especially when dealing with locked devices. It’s a reliable tool for those looking to reset their phones without worrying about data loss.
Part 3: How to Reset an Android Phone in 4 Methods
If you’re able to access your device and want to reset it using traditional methods, here are some options. Please note that these methods might result in data loss if you haven’t backed up your information.
Method 1: Factory Reset Using Settings Menu
This is the most straightforward way to reset an Android phone and is suitable for users who have access to their device. The factory reset option in the settings menu allows you to restore your phone to its original factory settings, erasing all data and apps in the process. However, if you have already backed up your data to Google Drive, you can easily restore your files and contacts after the reset.
- Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Navigate to General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Your device will restart after the reset.
Additional Tip: Before performing this method, ensure that your device is fully charged to avoid interruptions during the reset process.
Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode
Resetting via recovery mode is particularly useful when your Android phone is malfunctioning, frozen, or not booting up properly. This method accesses the phone’s recovery environment, allowing you to perform a reset without entering the device’s settings. While it’s a more technical approach, it’s highly effective in fixing severe software issues.
- Boot into Recovery Mode: Press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously until the phone boots into recovery mode.
- Select Recovery Mode: Use the Volume Up button to scroll to Recovery Mode and the Volume Down button to select it.
- Wipe Data/Factory Reset: Use the Volume buttons to navigate to Wipe data/factory reset and press the Power button to select.
- Confirm the action and wait for the reset to complete.
Additional Tip: Use the volume keys carefully to navigate the recovery mode options. A wrong selection could lead to unintended actions, so proceed with caution.
Method 3: Use Android Device Manager
The Android Device Manager (also known as Find My Device) is a handy tool provided by Google that allows you to remotely reset your phone. This method is particularly useful if your device is lost, stolen, or locked, as long as it is connected to the internet and signed in with your Google account. It offers a simple and effective way to unlock your phone by setting up a new lock screen.
- Sign in to Android Device Manager from another device.
- Select the device you want to reset (make sure it’s connected to the internet and signed into your Google account).
- Click Lock to set a new lock screen.
- Reset your device using the new lock screen.
Additional Tip: Ensure that your device is connected to a Wi-Fi network before using this method, as it relies on an internet connection to perform the reset.
Method 4: Create a Google Drive Backup and Reset
This method involves creating a full backup of your phone’s data to Google Drive before performing a factory reset. It’s an effective way to secure your data, including contacts, apps, and settings, so you can restore them after resetting the device. By choosing this approach, you can enjoy a fresh start while retaining all the critical data you need.
- Back Up Data: Go to Settings > Accounts and backup > Back up data. Select Back up to Google Drive and click Back up now.
- Perform Factory Reset: Go to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
- Restore Backup: After the reset, log into your Google account and restore your data from Google Drive.
Additional Tip: Regularly back up your phone’s data to Google Drive to ensure you can quickly restore it whenever a reset is necessary.
Conclusion
Resetting an Android device without losing data is now possible, thanks to the various methods and tools discussed in this article. Backing up your data to Google Drive is essential before attempting a reset to ensure the safety of your contacts, photos, and app data. For users looking to reset a locked Android phone, iMyFone LockWiper (Android) is the top choice, offering an easy and secure way to remove screen locks without compromising data integrity. By using these methods, you can confidently reset your Android phone and enjoy a fresh start without the fear of losing valuable information.
You May Also Like:
How to Disable FRP Lock on Android Devices Quickly
Top 3 FRP Lock Removal Tools to Unlock Android Devices Hassle-Free
