What to Do Before Trading In Your iPhone

Trading in your iPhone is a great way to get some value back before upgrading to a new model. But before you hand it over, there are a few important steps you need to take to protect your data and make the process smooth for the next owner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your iPhone ready for trade-in.

1. Unpair Any Connected Devices

If your iPhone is paired with accessories like an Apple Watch, Bluetooth headphones, or your car’s system, disconnect them first.

To unpair Apple Watch:

Keep the iPhone and Apple Watch close together.
Open the Watch app > My Watch tab > tap All Watches.
Tap the (i) next to the watch > select Unpair Apple Watch.

To unpair Bluetooth devices:

Go to Settings > Bluetooth.
Tap the (i) next to each paired device > choose Forget This Device.

2. Back Up Your iPhone

Before you erase anything, make sure your data is safely backed up.

Option A: iCloud Backup

Go to Settings > tap your Apple ID > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
Tap Back Up Now.
Make sure you’re on Wi-Fi and your phone is charged or plugged in.

Option B: Mac (Finder)

Connect your iPhone to your Mac.
Open Finder and select your iPhone.
Click Back Up Now.

Option C: Windows PC (iTunes)

Open iTunes and connect your iPhone via USB.
Click the iPhone icon > select Back Up Now.

Tip: If you already have your new iPhone, you can use Quick Start to directly transfer data during setup.

3. Sign Out of iCloud and Erase Your iPhone

Once your data is backed up, it’s time to wipe the device.

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
Tap Erase All Content and Settings.
Enter your passcode, Apple ID password, and follow the prompts.

Important: This will disable Find My iPhone and remove Activation Lock — both are required before trading it in.

If you no longer have the phone, erase it remotely at iCloud.com:

4. Remove the SIM Card

Don’t forget to take your SIM card out:

Power off your iPhone.
Use a SIM eject tool or paperclip to open the SIM tray.
Take out the SIM and install it into your new phone or keep it safe.

5. Remove the iPhone from Trusted Devices

To unlink your iPhone from your Apple account:

Go to Settings > [your name].
Scroll down to see your devices.
Tap your old iPhone > tap Remove from Account.

You can also manage this online at appleid.apple.com by logging into your Apple ID and removing the device from your trusted list.

6. Take Photos of the iPhone (Optional)

Before sending it off, take a few photos of the device (front, back, edges). This gives you proof of its condition in case there’s any issue with the trade-in evaluation.

Need Help with Transferring Service?

If you don’t use a SIM card or need help with activating the new device, contact your carrier directly. They can guide you through transferring your plan to the new owner or your new iPhone.