Factory resetting your OnePlus Open is the most complete way to wipe it clean, returning it to the state it was in when you first opened the box. It's a powerful fix for stubborn software problems and an essential step if you're planning to sell or give away your foldable.
Back Up Your Data Before Anything Else
This step is non-negotiable. A factory reset will permanently delete everything on your device, including photos, messages, and app data. I'd start by making sure your Google account backup is current. Go to Settings > Additional settings > Backup & reset > Backup & Restore and tap Back up data to your Google Drive.
Double-check that your photos and videos are syncing to Google Photos or another cloud service. For anything else, like local files or documents, connect your Open to a computer via USB-C and manually copy them over. Once you reset, there's no getting this data back.
Sign Out of Your Google Account
To avoid getting locked out by Factory Reset Protection (FRP), you need to remove your Google account. Head to Settings > Passwords & accounts, tap on your Google account, and select Remove account. Confirm the removal. This ensures you can set up the phone fresh without needing your old login credentials right away.
Perform the Factory Reset from Settings
This is the standard method when your phone is working. On your OnePlus Open, navigate to Settings > Additional settings > Backup & reset > Erase all data (factory reset). You'll see a detailed list of everything that will be deleted.
Tap Erase all data at the bottom. You'll be asked to enter your device's lock screen PIN, pattern, or password to confirm. After confirmation, the phone will reboot and begin the wiping process, which takes a few minutes. It will eventually boot to the initial OxygenOS setup screen.
Use Recovery Mode If Your Phone Won't Boot
If your Open is frozen, stuck in a boot loop, or the screen is unresponsive, you'll need to use the hardware buttons. First, make sure the phone is powered off. Press and hold the Power button and the Volume Down button together until the OnePlus logo appears, then release.
You'll enter Fastboot mode. Use the volume buttons to highlight Recovery Mode and press the power button to select it. After the Android recovery screen loads, select Wipe data and cache, then Format data. Confirm by typing "yes". Once complete, select Reboot.
Try a Less Drastic Reset First
For issues like Wi-Fi dropping, Bluetooth pairing problems, or general app misbehavior, a full factory reset might be overkill. Go to Settings > Additional settings > Backup & reset. Here, you have options to Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth or Reset app preferences.
These options clear your network connections and reset app permissions without touching your personal files. It's a great first step that solves a lot of common glitches. You can also clear the system cache from Recovery Mode, which can help with performance hiccups after an update.
Setting Up Your OnePlus Open After the Reset
Once the reset is complete, you'll go through the standard setup process. Connect to a Wi-Fi network and sign back into your Google account. When prompted, choose to restore your apps and settings from the Google Drive backup you made earlier.
Take your time reconfiguring your home screens, especially the unique multi-tasking features on the inner display. Remember to use the included 67W SUPERVOOC charger for the fastest possible charging from empty.
When a Factory Reset Makes Sense
Consider a factory reset if you're experiencing persistent, unfixable lag, random reboots, severe battery drain that diagnostics can't explain, or if you're preparing the device for a new owner. It's also a last resort for software issues that survive a normal update.
For hardware-related quirks specific to the Open, like a visible screen crease or hinge stiffness, a reset won't help. Those require careful use, avoid pressing the inner screen with fingernails and clean the hinge area gently to prevent dust buildup over time.
