Resetting iMac M1 (2021 Model) to Factory Settings

Objective

• Purpose: Preparing the iMac for resale by erasing all personal data and restoring to factory settings.

Steps for Resetting

1. Enter Recovery Mode: Press and hold the power button until the startup loading screen appears. For M1, use the power button; for Intel, use Command + R.
2. Select Recovery Options: On the startup loading screen, choose ‘Options’ and then ‘Continue’.
3. Access Disk Utility: In the macOS Recovery mode, select ‘Disk Utility’ and then ‘Continue’.
4. Erase SSD Drive:
   • Select the internal SSD drive (256 GB).
   • Click ‘Erase’, name the drive (e.g., ‘Macintosh HD’), and confirm to erase.
5. Reinstall MacOS:
   • Exit Disk Utility and select ‘Reinstall macOS’.
   • Connect to Wi-Fi if required and follow the prompts to reinstall the macOS.

Important Notes

• Data Backup: Ensure to back up any important data before erasing the SSD drive.
• Duration: The process, including macOS reinstallation, may take around 30 minutes, but time can vary.

Completion

• Setup Screen: After installation, the iMac displays a setup screen for the new user.
• Shut Down: If not setting up immediately, the iMac can be shut down. It will present the setup screen when turned on next.

Conclusion

• The process effectively resets the iMac M1 to factory settings, making it ready for a new user.
• The video provides a real-time walkthrough of the reset process, demonstrating each step and what to expect during the reinstallation phase.

This summary gives a detailed guide on how to reset an iMac M1 to its original factory settings, suitable for preparing the device for a new user. If you have any specific questions or need further details, feel free to ask!