The Recently Deleted folder allows users to restore files within 30 days of deletion.
iCloud and iTunes backups provide reliable options for recovering lost data.
When no backups are available, third-party recovery applications can help retrieve deleted files.
Losing photos or important files on your iPhone can be a frustrating experience. This may occur due to accidental deletion, a software update failure, or while freeing up storage space. Fortunately, iPhones include built-in features that can help recover lost files and photos.
In addition to iCloud and iTunes backups, reliable third-party applications can help recover deleted files and photos. This guide outlines the most effective methods to restore deleted photos and files on your iPhone.
First, check the Recently Deleted folder in your Photos app or Files app. Apple places this there as a temporary storage location for data you delete.
Data remains there for 30 days before it’s permanently deleted.
To retrieve something, navigate to that folder, select the photo or file, and click Restore.
This will work only if you deleted it within the last month.
For most people, this is the fastest and easiest way to recover their data.
Also Read: WhatsApp New Feature Update: Supports Live Photos with Sound and Motion for iPhone Users
When it’s not in Recently Deleted, check your iCloud backup. With iCloud Backup enabled, your photos, videos, and files are automatically stored.
Go to Settings> iCloud> Manage Storage & Backups to check it.
If the file was there the last time you backed up, you can retrieve it.
To do this, you need to reset your iPhone and restore it from the backup when you set it up again.
Keep in mind that performing this action will wipe your phone and restore older data, so any recent information that you haven’t backed up will be lost.
If you frequently link your iPhone to a Mac or PC, you can use iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS) for backups.
Plug your iPhone into your computer.
Open iTunes or Finder and pick Restore Backup.
Select the backup that contains the files you want to restore.
Similar to iCloud, this restores your phone to a previous state, so use it only if other methods are unsuccessful.
Sometimes your files are saved to iCloud Drive instead of on your iPhone. If you delete something from here, it is also moved to the Recently Deleted area.
Open the Files app, navigate to iCloud Drive, and then open Recently Deleted.
Select the files and retrieve them.
This is good for documents, PDFs, and files from apps.
If you don’t have backups and the Recently Deleted folder is empty, you can try other apps. Tools like Dr.Fone, iMyFone D-Back, and Tenorshare UltData can help locate lost data on your iPhone.
These apps can sometimes recover files not included in backups. They are most effective when minimal new data has been added to the phone since the file was deleted. Many of them offer a free trial before you pay. They don’t always work, but they might help you get back something important.
Recovering files can be a hassle, so try to avoid it. Here are a few things you can do:
Turn on iCloud Backup: This way, you won't lose your photos, videos, and app data
Use a Computer: Regularly transfer your pictures and documents to a computer or external hard drive.
Keep Your Files Organized: Keep your folders clean and labeled so you don’t accidentally delete important files.
Following these steps can help prevent permanent data loss.
Deleting photos or files on an iPhone does not necessarily mean they are permanently lost. Apple provides several methods for recovering files and photos, including the Recently Deleted folder, iCloud, and iTunes backups.
If those options don't work, consider using third-party recovery tools. Following these recommendations, back up your files regularly to keep your memories and important data safe.
From Data to Decisions: Predictive Modeling in Consumer Lending
Top 10 Data Breach Causes in 2025
Step-by-Step Guide: Transfer All Data from Your Old MacBook to a New One
1. Can permanently deleted photos be recovered on an iPhone?
Yes, with iCloud, iTunes backups, or third-party recovery apps.
2. How long do deleted photos stay in the Recently Deleted folder?
They remain for 30 days before being permanently erased.
3. Can I recover files without an iCloud or iTunes backup?
Yes, third-party recovery apps can sometimes restore them.
4. Does restoring from backup erase current iPhone data?
Yes, the device will revert to the state of the chosen backup.
5. What is the best way to avoid losing files again?
Enable iCloud backup and regularly save data to an external storage device.