Accidentally deleting a file on an Android device is a common mishap. Whether it’s a cherished photo, an important video, or a crucial document, the frustration of losing data is undeniable. Fortunately, there are several methods to retrieve these files. Here are ten tried-and-true ways to recover deleted files on Android:
Check Your Recycle Bin
Android devices come equipped with a recycle bin (often called “Trash”). To check if your file is there, open the File Manager app and navigate to the “Trash” folder. If you locate your file, tap the “Restore” button to retrieve it.
Use a Data Recovery App
There are numerous data recovery apps available on the Google Play Store, such as DiskDigger and Recuva. After installing your chosen app, grant it the necessary permissions, choose the file type you wish to recover, and initiate the scan. You can then preview and select the files for recovery.
Recover from Cloud Backup
If you utilize cloud backup services like Google Drive or Dropbox, check their “Trash” or “Deleted Files” sections. You might find your deleted files there, ready for restoration.
Recover from an SD Card
If your data is stored on an SD card, you can use data recovery apps to retrieve it. Ensure the app supports SD card scanning.
Android Recovery Toolkit
Some toolkits, like the Android Data Recovery Toolkit, are designed for Android data recovery. Install the toolkit, connect your device to a computer, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restore from a Device Backup
If you’ve backed up your Android device, restoring it can bring back your deleted files. Ensure you’re aware of the implications of a full restore before proceeding.
Recovery on a Rooted Device
A root explorer app like DiskDigger for rooted Android devices can be particularly effective. Grant the app root access, select your desired file type, and initiate the scan.
Check Synced Devices
If you have other devices where the same account is logged in and synced, the deleted file might still be present on one of them. For instance, if you use apps that automatically sync data across devices, such as note-taking apps or photo galleries, the file might not have been deleted from another device yet. Quickly check these devices and, if found, transfer the file back to your Android device.
Contact the App Developer
If a specific app was responsible for the file you lost (e.g., a note-taking app or a drawing app), contact the app’s developer. Some apps may have built-in recovery features that take time to become apparent to users. The developer might guide you on accessing these features or offer other solutions to retrieve your data.
Professional Data Recovery Service
If all else fails, consider seeking the expertise of a data recovery service. These professionals specialize in retrieving lost or deleted data.
