How to Erase an Old iPad After Data Transfer

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4
You will need
Stable Wi-Fi connection, Apple ID password

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Confirm the data migration

    Before erasing, ensure your new device has received all necessary data. Verify that your photos, documents, and app states are present on the new unit to prevent permanent loss.

    Note: Check your iCloud sync status in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
  2. 1 min

    Sign out of iCloud and Find My

    Navigate to Settings, tap your name at the top of the sidebar, then select Sign Out. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted to turn off Find My and remove the device from your account.

    Note: Skipping this step keeps the device locked to your Apple ID.
  3. 30 sec

    Access the reset menu

    Open the Settings app. Tap General, scroll to the bottom of the right-hand panel, and select Transfer or Reset iPad.

  4. 30 sec

    Initialize factory reset

    Tap Erase All Content and Settings. The system will display a summary of data to be removed, including your Apple ID, Find My data, and Wallet cards.

  5. 30 sec

    Confirm the erasure

    Select Continue to proceed with the final confirmation. If prompted, enter your device passcode to authorize the factory reset process.

  6. 5 min

    Complete the wipe

    The iPad will restart and display a progress bar. Once finished, the device will boot to the Hello screen, indicating it is clean and ready for a new user.

    Note: Keep the device plugged into a power source during this process.