WARNING! By factory resetting your phone, all personal data stored on the device’s internal memory will be removed, including media files, contacts, downloaded content, applications etc. In addition, all settings will be restored to default (factory values).

NOTE: Before master resetting the phone you can visit this thread for instructions on how to back up data. You can also check this thread for instructions on restoring data.

Factory Reset via Settings:

  1. Tap “Apps” on the home screen
  2. Open “Settings
  3. Tap “Backup and reset” under “Personal
  4. Optionally, turn “Restore” and “Back up my data” On or Off
  5. Tap “Factory data reset” > “Reset device
  6. Assuming that your phone is protected by a lock screen, enter the PIN / password / pattern to proceed
  7. Tap “Continue” > “Delete all

Factory Reset via Recovery:

NOTE: If you are unable to master reset the Samsung Galaxy J1 using the method above, you can try resetting it from the Recovery menu, which can be accessed by performing a combination of button presses.

  1. First, turn off the phone
  2. Next, press and hold “Volume Up”, “Home” and “Power” at the same time
  3. Release “Power” at the “Samsung” logo
  4. When an Android appears on-screen, release “Home” and “Volume Up” too
  5. In the “Android system recovery” menu, use “Volume down” to navigate to and highlight “Wipe data / factory reset
  6. Press “Power” to select the option
  7. Press “Volume down” to highlight “Yes – delete all user data
  8. Press “Power

Check for OS Updates:

NOTE: Once you finish resetting your phone, it’s recommended to check if new software updates are available for download. To do this:

  1. Open the apps drawer
  2. Launch “Settings
  3. Scroll to “System” and tap “About device
  4. Check if a new OS version is available, and if necessary, follow the on-screen prompts to download and apply any available updates



See More: Samsung Galaxy J1 (2016): Factory Reset and Check for OS Updates