Like Apple devices, Android phones and tablets need to be properly prepared before recycling. If a device isn’t factory reset and unlinked from its Google account first, Factory Reset Protection (FRP) locks the device, A locked device is just a pretty electronic paperweight that can only be used for screen replacements.
If an Android device is reset and unlocked before recycling, the battery can be replaced and given years of additional life for a new user with zero concerns of data privacy. Follow the steps below to prepare your Android devices for recycling.
Step 1: Back Up Your Data
Before proceeding, ensure you have a backup of your device to avoid losing any important information.
- Use Google’s built-in backup service: Settings > Google > Backup
- Or transfer files manually to another device, computer, or cloud storage
Step 2: Charge Your Phone
Ensure your phone has at least 50% battery life before starting. A reset that gets interrupted mid-process can leave your device in a bad state.
Step 3: Remove Your Google Account (Most Important Step)
This step disables Factory Reset Protection (FRP). If you skip it, the device will be locked to your Google account even after a factory reset — making it impossible to refurbish.
On most Android devices:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Accounts (or Passwords & accounts, or Accounts and backup, depending on your device)
- Select your Google account
- Tap “Remove account”
- Repeat for any other Google accounts on the device
Also sign out of any manufacturer accounts (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.) and remove saved payment methods from Google Pay or Samsung Pay.
Step 4: Remove Your Screen Lock
Go to Settings > Security (or Lock screen) and remove any PIN, pattern, password, or biometric lock. This ensures the device can be cleanly reset for a new user.
Step 5: Remove SIM and SD Cards
Eject your SIM card and any microSD card before recycling. These contain personal data and should be kept or destroyed separately. Most phones have a SIM tray that opens with the included ejector tool or a paperclip.
Step 6: Perform a Factory Reset
Exact menu paths vary by device, but the reset option is usually found under:
- Stock Android / Google Pixel: Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset)
- Samsung: Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset
- Other manufacturers: Look for “Reset,” “Factory reset,” or “Erase all data” in Settings
Follow the onscreen prompts and confirm when asked. The reset will take a few minutes.
Step 7: Verify the Reset
When the reset is complete, the phone will reboot to the initial welcome/setup screen. This confirms the reset worked. Do not complete the setup — power the device off and it’s ready for recycling.