Preparing an iPhone for trade-in requires erasing personal information and removing the device from normal use, not simply restarting it.
- Back up anything you still need from the iPhone.
- If you use an Apple Watch, unpair it before giving up the iPhone.
- Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings and follow the prompts.
- After the erase completes, leave the iPhone at the setup screen for the next owner or trade-in processor.
Do not manually delete photos or contacts while they are still syncing to iCloud as a substitute for erasing the device.
After completing the steps, check the result for Reset iPhone for Trade In before changing another setting. If it did not work, return to the same control and review the selected option rather than making a broader reset.