Recover your deleted files in seconds with these amazing apps!
Are your photos missing? Recover every memory with one tap!
What do you want to do?
How to Recover Deleted Files from Your Cell Phone: Complete Guide with the Best Apps
Losing important files on your cell phone, such as photos, videos, documents and messages, is a common situation that can cause a lot of stress.
Whether it's due to accidental deletion, system failure, virus attack or storage issues, it's always distressing to see data disappear.
Fortunately, there are several effective applications that allow you to recover lost or deleted files from your cell phone.
In this guide, we will present the best applications currently available for Android and iOS, with details about their features, advantages, limitations and essential tips to avoid further losses.
If you are looking for a complete and reliable solution, continue reading.
Why Are Files Deleted from Cell Phones?
There are several reasons why files on your phone may be deleted or lost. Some of the most common include:
- Accidental deletion: It's very easy to accidentally delete an important file, especially when there's a lot of similar data (like photos or videos).
- Factory reset or system update: These processes can erase data if a backup is not made beforehand.
- Virus or malware attacks: Malicious programs can corrupt or delete important files.
- Memory card problems: Physical or logical failures in the SD card can compromise the stored data.
- Application Error: Some poorly programmed applications may corrupt data or delete it unexpectedly.
Knowing the origin of the loss helps you choose the most suitable application for recovery.
Apps to Recover Files on Cell Phones
1. DiskDigger
DiskDigger is one of the most popular tools for recovering photos and videos on Android devices.
It scans internal storage and memory cards for files that haven't been overwritten yet.
Main features:
- Allows basic scanning without root.
- With root, it unlocks deep scanning for more formats.
- Shows preview of found files.
- Simple interface, focused on practical use.
Limitations: Only works on Android. The free version is limited to images.
2. EaseUS MobiSaver
Compatible with both Android and iOS, EaseUS MobiSaver is a powerful file recovery solution.
Besides photos and videos, it also restores messages, contacts, and other important data.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface with simple navigation.
- Recovers various types of files.
- Allows preview before restoring.
- It has a desktop version that complements the mobile app.
Differentials: One of the few complete options also for iOS.
3. Dumpster
Dumpster acts as a smart recycle bin for Android. Once installed, it stores copies of files that are deleted on your device, allowing you to easily restore them.
Advantages:
- Does not require root.
- Stores photos, videos, documents, music and more.
- It has cloud backup support in the Pro version.
- It works even without internet.
Ideal for: Prevention of future losses, as it needs to be installed before deletion.
4. Dr.Fone – Data Recovery
Dr.Fone is one of the most complete tools on the market, with versions for Android, iOS and desktop. It allows you to recover a huge variety of data, including data from devices that no longer turn on.
Highlights:
- Recovers deleted data from broken or formatted devices.
- Allows you to export files to your computer.
- It has additional features like screen unlock and backup.
- Clean interface, with step by step instructions.
Cons: It is one of the most expensive paid solutions, but it makes up for it in terms of recovery depth.
5. Tenorshare UltData
UltData is a particularly useful tool for Android. It doesn't require root, which makes it easier for less technical users to use, and it can still restore a variety of data types.
Features:
- Recover messages, contacts, photos, videos and more.
- Compatible with the latest versions of Android.
- Intuitive interface and fast recovery process.
Indication: Ideal for those looking for practicality without changing system permissions.
How Do These Apps Work?
In general, recovery applications work by scanning the phone's internal memory or SD card.
Even after a file is deleted, it is not immediately erased from the device. Instead, the space where it was stored is marked as “free.”
This means that until it is overwritten by new data, the file can still be recovered.
That's why, It is essential to avoid using your cell phone after realizing that data has been deleted. The fewer activities you do, the greater the chance of successful recovery.
Practical Tips to Prevent Data Loss
In addition to having good recovery applications, it is essential to adopt some preventive practices:
1. Make regular backups
Use cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive or Dropbox to keep automatic copies of your most important files. This ensures that even if your phone is damaged or formatted, your data will be safe.
2. Avoid installing apps from unknown sources
Apps outside of official stores (Google Play or App Store) may contain viruses that compromise your data. Always check the developer's reputation and other users' reviews.
3. Keep your operating system up to date
Frequent updates fix security flaws that could be exploited by malware. They also improve system stability.
4. Use apps with recycle bin function
Tools like Dumpster act as a second chance in case of accidental deletions. They store files before they are permanently deleted.
5. Avoid excessive use of your cell phone after deleting something
As soon as you notice data loss, stop using your phone and install one of the recovery apps. The longer it takes, the lower the chance of success.
Comparison of the Main Applications
| Application | Operating System | Requires Root | Supported Types | Free Version | Premium Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DiskDigger | Android | No (basic) | Photos, videos | Yes | Yes |
| EaseUS MobiSaver | Android, iOS | No | Photos, videos, messages, contacts | Yes | Yes |
| Dumpster | Android | No | All types (pre-deletion) | Yes | Yes |
| Dr.Fone | Android, iOS | No | Miscellaneous (includes damaged devices) | Yes | Yes |
| Tenorshare UltData | Android | No | Photos, videos, messages, contacts | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
Losing important files from your phone is a frustrating experience, but it’s not irreversible. As we’ve seen in this guide, there are effective solutions that can restore deleted data safely and affordably. Tools like DiskDigger, EaseUS MobiSaver, Dumpster, Dr.Fone, and Tenorshare UltData offer powerful features for users with different levels of technical knowledge.
Prevention is even more important. By making regular backups, being careful with malicious apps, and using apps with a virtual recycle bin, you can significantly reduce the risk of permanent file loss.
If you have just lost an important file, the recommendation is to act quickly: install the application that is most compatible with your system and start the recovery process immediately. And, for the future, adopt good digital security and storage practices.
