Preparing Your Pixel 3 for Reset

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If you’re planning to sell your Pixel 3 128GB, performing a proper factory reset is essential to protect your personal data and ensure the new owner receives a clean device. Follow these steps carefully to reset your phone correctly.

Preparing Your Pixel 3 for Reset

Before initiating the reset, take some precautions to safeguard your data and ensure the process goes smoothly.

  • Back up important data such as photos, contacts, and documents to Google Drive or another cloud service.
  • Remove your Google account from the device to avoid activation lock issues.
  • Charge your Pixel 3 to at least 50% to prevent it from turning off during the reset process.

Removing Your Google Account

Removing your Google account ensures that your account credentials are not linked to the device after the reset.

Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Google, select your account, and tap Remove Account. Confirm the removal when prompted.

Performing the Factory Reset

There are two main methods to reset your Pixel 3: through the device settings or using recovery mode. Follow the method that suits you best.

Reset via Settings Menu

This is the easiest way if your device is functioning normally.

  • Open Settings.
  • Scroll down and tap System.
  • Select Reset options.
  • Tap Erase all data (factory reset).
  • Confirm by tapping Reset Phone.
  • Enter your device PIN or password if prompted.
  • Tap Erase Everything to confirm.

Reset Using Recovery Mode

If your device isn’t responding, use recovery mode to perform the reset.

  • Power off your Pixel 3.
  • Press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until the device vibrates and the bootloader screen appears.
  • Use the volume buttons to navigate to Recovery Mode and press the power button to select it.
  • The device will reboot and display an Android robot with an exclamation mark.
  • Press and hold the Power button, then press and release the Volume Up button.
  • Navigate to Wipe data/factory reset using the volume buttons and select it with the power button.
  • Confirm by selecting Yes — delete all user data.
  • Once complete, select Reboot system now.

Post-Reset Steps

After resetting, your Pixel 3 will restart as a new device. Set it up as needed or turn it off for the new owner.

If you’re selling the device, consider performing a final check to ensure all personal data has been removed and the device is functioning properly.

Additional Tips

  • Remove any SIM or SD cards from the device before handing it over.
  • Clean the device physically for a better presentation.
  • Provide original accessories if available.

Following these steps will help you securely and effectively prepare your Pixel 3 128GB for sale, protecting your data and ensuring a smooth transfer to the new owner.