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With the right tools, you can recover deleted files on Android. Find out here what you need to keep in mind when recovering data.
Recovering Deleted Files on Android
There are several ways to recover deleted files of any kind on Android. However, successful recovery cannot be guaranteed.
- There are numerous data recovery tools available online and in the Google Play Store. While many of these tools used to require root access, newer programs like Tenorshare UltData or iMyFone D-Back can now work without root access.
- After you’ve accidentally deleted a file, you should use your smartphone as little as possible and switch to Airplane Mode . It’s also recommended to temporarily disable automatic syncs with cloud services to prevent the deleted file from being overwritten.
- The more write operations performed on the storage medium after deletion—such as modifying or copying files—the lower your chances of a successful recovery.
- If you had previously saved your deleted files to an SD card , your chances of a successful recovery increase significantly. With internal storage, however, recovery options are much more limited, as Android often encrypts this data. For SD cards, computer programs such as Recuva or PhotoRec are recommended.
- Samsung users also have the option to access the device via Download Mode and perform a recovery using supporting programs such as UltData . This method can be particularly helpful in cases of system errors or devices that no longer boot.
- Also note that newer versions of gallery apps or file managers have a built-in Recycle Bin . Deleted files are typically stored there for up to 30 days and can be restored at any time before they are permanently deleted.
Recover Deleted Files with Android Data Recovery
You can try to recover your deleted files using a tool called Android Data Recovery. To do so, follow the steps below and try to use your smartphone as little as possible while doing so.
- First, enable USB debugging mode on your phone. You can activate this in the Settings under Developer Options. If you can’t find this option there, you’ll first need to enable Developer Options. Then confirm the superuser request on your smartphone.
- Next, enable Airplane Mode and do not open any new apps on your phone.
- Next, install the free trial version of Android Data Recovery on your computer.
- Now connect your phone to the computer via a USB cable and open the program. Android Data Recovery will then detect your connected smartphone.
- Click Start so that the program begins searching for the deleted files. A list of all deleted files that can be recovered will then appear.
- Check the boxes to select the files you want to recover, then click Next. To perform a full recovery, you’ll need to purchase the paid version of the program.
How to Protect Yourself Against Data Loss
To prevent potential data loss, you should back up your cell phone at regular intervals.
- That way, in the event of data loss, you’ll always be able to restore deleted files from the backup.
- Newer versions of Android and certain apps also have a built-in Recycle Bin. If this feature is available and enabled, you can usually restore deleted files within 30 days.
- It’s also a good idea to regularly back up important data to the cloud or an SD card to prevent data loss.
