Selling your old iPhone? There's a way to make sure your data is really erased

The beta version of iOS 27.2 reveals a thorough deletion feature that overwrites all storage space with empty data. The feature is currently intended only for the Chinese market due to local regulations, and may shorten the device's lifespan. Apple warns that the process takes a long time and affects the memory component.

The first beta version of iOS 27.2 reveals hints of a new and particularly thorough deletion feature, discovered by the blog 9to5mac. Unlike Apple's current method, which destroys encryption keys and makes data inaccessible, the new feature will overwrite all iPhone storage space with empty, meaningless data, including memory areas not in active use. However, the option comes at a cost: Apple warns in the system code that the full process may take significantly longer than a normal deletion, and that it may negatively affect the lifespan of the memory component and shorten the device's life expectancy. The biggest catch is that the feature is not expected to reach all users. According to the code, as of now the option will only be available on iPhones sold in China, due to new local regulations taking effect on January 1, 2027, requiring manufacturers to provide a more thorough way to delete data by overwriting. Later, the feature is expected to come to iPad, HomePod, and Apple Vision Pro. For the rest of the world, the current encryption key deletion will remain the fast and secure line of defense.