Your iOS device stores much of your data. It could be that memorable video with a loved one, an anniversary photo, an important contact, or a critical document. But you can delete them accidentally. Don’t panic, though. You can use iOS tools to restore them. A few third-party solutions may also do the work. Let’s explore these options in detail.
Get it from the Recently Deleted Folder
If you have just deleted your file, you can restore it to the exact location it was if you do it before storing another file in its place. Otherwise, the software will remove the file within 30 days.
Follow the steps below to restore photos or videos:
- Open the Photos app to access the albums.
- Check for the ‘Recently Deleted’ option. You may need to authenticate with Face ID or your passcode if your device is iOS 16 or a later version.
- Select the files you want restored, click ‘Recover’, and confirm. You will find them in original albums.
You can use the same process to restore files that you deleted in the Files app or iCloud Drive. These files move back to their respective locations.
Restore Files from Your iCloud Backup
Apple allows you to keep a copy of your files on your iCloud account. You can use these files for restoration. Just enable automatic backups on your account to have copies of all your data. To check if your backup is active, click iCloud and then tap the Backup option in the account settings.
To restore a specific file:
- Head to the account settings and tap ‘Advanced.’
- Click ‘Restore File’ (or Contacts) and search for files you need restored.
- Restore using iTunes or Finder.
Restore from Backup using Finder or iTunes
If you had saved your files on a Windows computer or one running an older macOS, you can restore them using iTunes. On the other hand, computers that run macOS Catalina and later versions use Finder:
- Use a USB cable to connect your device to your computer.
- Open iTunes or the Finder app and select your phone from the options.
- Tap the Restore Backup option and choose a folder that contains your lost files.
- Pick the file you wish to restore for it to move back to its local storage.
Back up your data regularly to ensure you have the latest data on your PC. You can also secure the files on your PC using a password.
Use Third-Party Recovery Tools
Sometimes, you lose files, and you have no backup. Although restoring them is possible, you may need third-party tools to scan your iOS device storage for recoverable data. They can recover photos, messages, and documents.
Popular options include FonePaw iPhone Data Recovery, EaseUS MobiSaver, and Tenorshare UltData. They are useful for recovering lost data but are not alternatives to backups. Here’s how to use them:
- Install your chosen software on your computer, connect your iPhone, and select “Recover.”
- The software will scan your device.
- Choose the files you wish to restore. Then, save them to your computer or device.
Go for reputable software to avoid being scammed. Remember, most software requires a subscription to recover certain file types or sizes.
Final Thoughts
Losing a file on your iOS doesn’t have to be a big deal. If you act on time, you can get it back from the ‘Recently Deleted’ folder. Also, it’s good to regularly confirm your files are backed up in iCloud or on your computer. This may save you from losing them permanently in the future. If nothing else works, use third-party tools, but they should be your last option due to their limitations and potential risks.