Hard Reset via Recovery — Fairphone 4
Optimized for 4 (Android 11, upgradable to Android 15)
Factory Reset from Settings — Fairphone 4
Optimized for 4 (Android 11, upgradable to Android 15)
Enter Recovery Mode — Fairphone 4
Optimized for 4 (Android 11, upgradable to Android 15)
FRP Bypass (Google Lock) — Fairphone 4
Optimized for 4 (Android 11, upgradable to Android 15)
Why reset your Fairphone 4?
A hard reset on the Fairphone 4 fixes boot loops, forgotten PINs and persistent lag. The method above will wipe the device back to factory condition. Always back up your data first, as a reset cannot be undone.
Frequently asked questions
Will a hard reset delete everything on my Fairphone 4?
Yes. A hard reset (also called a factory reset) erases all apps, photos, messages, and accounts, returning the Fairphone 4 to its out-of-box state. Back up anything you want to keep before starting.
Does resetting the Fairphone 4 remove the SIM lock or carrier lock?
No. A hard or factory reset only clears data and settings — it doesn't remove a carrier/SIM lock, which is tied to the device's IMEI at the network level. You'd need to contact your carrier for an unlock.
How long does a factory reset take on the Fairphone 4?
Typically a few minutes, though it can take longer on older or heavily used devices as more stored data has to be wiped.
Will I need my Google account password after resetting the Fairphone 4?
Yes, if Factory Reset Protection (FRP) is enabled. Android (and HarmonyOS 2.x devices with Google services) will ask for the last signed-in Google account after a reset — make sure you know that password first.
What is recovery mode on my Fairphone 4?
Recovery mode is a stripped-down menu outside the normal operating system, used to wipe data or apply updates when the Fairphone 4 won't boot normally. See the Enter Recovery Mode section above for how to reach it on this device.
How do I reset my Fairphone 4?
Use the Hard Reset method above if your Fairphone 4 is frozen or won't respond, or the Factory Reset method if the screen still works normally — both are covered step by step on this page.
Does my Fairphone 4 have a hard reset button?
Not a single dedicated button — the Fairphone 4 uses a button combination instead of one labeled "reset." See the Hard Reset section above for the exact keys to press.