Having a broken iPhone screen can be frustrating, especially if you need to erase the device and you don’t have access to the internet. Whether you want to sell your iPhone, give it away, or simply ensure that your personal data is completely erased, this blog post will guide you through the process of erasing an iPhone with a broken screen and no internet connection.
Why You Need to Erase Your iPhone
Before we dive into the methods of erasing an iPhone with a broken screen and no internet, let’s quickly understand why it is important to erase your iPhone before getting rid of it or passing it on to someone else.
1. Protect Your Privacy: Your iPhone contains a plethora of personal information, including photos, messages, emails, and sensitive data. Erasing your iPhone ensures that your personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
2. Prevent Data Theft: If you’re selling, trading in, or giving away your iPhone, it’s crucial to erase all data to prevent data theft. Even with a broken screen, someone could potentially retrieve your data if it’s not properly erased.
3. Improve Performance: By erasing your iPhone, you can start fresh with a clean slate, improving the overall performance of the device.
4. Prepare for a Repair: Erasing your iPhone might be necessary when you send it in for repairs, ensuring that your personal data is protected while the device is being serviced.
Now that you understand the importance of erasing your iPhone, let’s explore different methods to do so even with a broken screen and no internet connection.
Video Tutorial:
Part 1. Erasing iPhone with iTunes
Using iTunes is one of the most common methods to erase an iPhone with a broken screen and no internet connection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Connect your iPhone to a computer using a USB cable.
2. Launch iTunes on your computer. If you don’t have iTunes installed, download and install it from the official Apple website.
3. Once your iPhone is connected, iTunes should recognize it. Click on the device icon located in the upper-left corner of the iTunes window.
4. In the left sidebar, click on the “Summary” tab.
5. Under the “Summary” tab, you will see the option to “Restore iPhone.” Click on it and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. iTunes will download the necessary software for your iPhone and erase all data on the device. The process may take some time, so be patient.
7. Once the process is complete, your iPhone will restart and be restored to its factory settings.
Pros:
1. Easy method to erase an iPhone with a broken screen.
2. Doesn’t require an active internet connection.
3. Allows for a complete restore to factory settings, erasing all data.
Cons:
1. Requires access to a computer with iTunes installed.
2. May take some time to download the necessary software.
Part 2. Erasing iPhone with iCloud
If you have previously set up Find My iPhone on your device and have access to another iOS device or a computer with internet access, you can erase your iPhone remotely using iCloud. Follow these steps:
1. Open a web browser on another device/computer and go to iCloud.com.
2. Sign in to your iCloud account using your Apple ID and password.
3. Once you’re logged in, click on the “Find iPhone” icon.
4. You will see a map with all your devices. Click on the iPhone you want to erase.
5. In the top-right corner, click on “Erase iPhone.”
6. A confirmation pop-up will appear. Click on “Erase” again to proceed.
7. iCloud will remotely erase your iPhone and restore it to factory settings.
Pros:
1. Can be done remotely using any device with internet access.
2. Allows for a complete restore to factory settings, erasing all data.
Cons:
1. Requires previous setup of Find My iPhone on the device.
2. Relies on an active internet connection.
3. May require access to another iOS device or a computer.
Part 3. Erasing iPhone with Recovery Mode
If iTunes or iCloud methods are not feasible for you, using recovery mode is another option to erase an iPhone with a broken screen and no internet. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Connect your iPhone to a computer using a USB cable.
2. Launch iTunes on your computer.
3. Force restart your iPhone: If you have an iPhone 8 or later, quickly press and release the volume up button, then the volume down button, and finally hold the side button until you see the recovery mode screen. For iPhone 7 and earlier models, hold down the power button and the home button together until the recovery mode screen appears.
4. iTunes will detect your iPhone in recovery mode and prompt you to restore or update the device.
5. Click on the “Restore” option and follow the on-screen instructions to erase and restore your iPhone to factory settings.
Pros:
1. Doesn’t require access to a computer or an active internet connection.
2. Can be done directly on the iPhone using recovery mode.
Cons:
1. Requires a computer with iTunes installed if you want to restore the iPhone.
2. May not work if your iPhone’s buttons are not working properly.
Part 4. Erasing iPhone with Third-Party Software
If none of the methods mentioned above work for you, there are third-party software options available that can help you erase your iPhone with a broken screen and no internet connection. These software solutions often require a small fee but offer additional features like data recovery and data erasure. Some popular options include iMobie PhoneRescue, Dr.Fone, and iMyFone Umate Pro.
1. Research and choose a reputable third-party software that suits your needs.
2. Download and install the software on your computer.
3. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the software to erase your iPhone.
Pros:
1. Can be a viable option if other methods fail.
2. Offers additional features like data recovery and advanced data erasure.
Cons:
1. Software may come at a cost.
2. Requires access to a computer with the necessary software installed.
What to Do If You Can’t Erase Your iPhone
If you find yourself unable to erase your iPhone using the methods mentioned above, here are a few alternative solutions you can consider:
1. Seek Professional Help: Take your iPhone to an Apple Store or an authorized service provider. They may be able to assist you in erasing the iPhone or provide repair options.
2. Sell or Trade-In Your iPhone As-Is: If erasing your iPhone is not possible, you can still sell or trade it in, but it’s important to disclose the device’s condition and emphasize the need for data erasure to the buyer or reseller.
3. Physically Destroy the iPhone: If you’re concerned about data security, physically destroying your iPhone by breaking it or shredding it can ensure that no one can access your personal data.
Bonus Tips
1. Use a Screen Mirroring App: If your iPhone screen is unresponsive but still functional, you can use a screen mirroring app to view and control your iPhone screen on a computer. This will allow you to navigate and access the necessary settings to erase your device.
2. Contact Apple Support: If you’re facing difficulties erasing your iPhone or have specific concerns, reach out to Apple Support for guidance. They can provide further assistance and help resolve any issues you may have.
3. Remove SIM Card and External Storage: Before erasing your iPhone, remember to remove the SIM card and any external storage, such as SD cards or SIM card adapters. This ensures that your personal data is not inadvertently left behind.
The Bottom Line
Erasing an iPhone with a broken screen and no internet connection can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By following the methods outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your personal data is securely erased and your privacy is protected. If all else fails, seek professional help or consider alternative solutions to ensure the safety of your personal information.