Do not manually delete everything from iCloud
Apple warns that manually deleting photos, contacts, documents, or other items while signed in to iCloud can remove them from iCloud and every connected device. If your goal is simply to pass on the old phone, first transfer or back up the information you want, then use Apple’s device-erasure workflow.
Review before the final backup
A review still has value before migration. Old screenshots, downloaded images, private videos, and forgotten moments may otherwise move straight into the new library. Check Hidden and Recently Deleted, search important dates and contexts, and review likely sensitive matches with a detector only as a filter.
Deleting selected media changes the library. Erase All Content and Settings prepares the physical device for another owner.
A safer order of operations
- Back up or transfer first. Confirm that the new device or backup contains what you intend to keep.
- Review the photo library. Decide what should move forward, remain hidden, or be deleted.
- Check Recently Deleted. Items normally remain recoverable for 30 days unless permanently removed.
- Follow Apple’s account steps. Unpair an Apple Watch, handle AppleCare, sign out when instructed, and deregister iMessage if moving away from iPhone.
- Erase the device. Use Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
- Remove physical accessories. Handle SIM or eSIM and remove the old device from trusted devices as Apple directs.
Why “Reset All Settings” is not enough
Reset All Settings restores settings but does not delete apps, photos, messages, or documents. Apple specifically directs people selling or giving away a device to use Erase All Content and Settings instead.