How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android

Android devices have become an integral part of our lives, serving as a storage hub for essential files, photos, and documents. However, accidents happen, and sometimes we accidentally delete important files from our Android devices. The good news is that there are methods available to recover permanently deleted files from Android. In this blog post, we will explore various methods and solutions to help you retrieve your valuable data.

The Challenge of Recovering Permanently Deleted Files from Android

Recovering permanently deleted files from Android can be a daunting task. Here are a few challenges that often arise when attempting to retrieve deleted files:

• Storage Overwrite: When a file is deleted, it is not immediately removed from the storage. Instead, the space it occupied is marked as available for new data. If new data is written to the storage before the recovery process, there is a high chance that the deleted file will be overwritten and become unrecoverable.
• Fragmented Data: Android devices often store files in an optimized manner, which can lead to fragmentation. This means that different parts of a file may be scattered across the storage. Recovering such files requires specialized techniques.
• Lack of Built-in Recovery Options: Unlike computers, Android devices do not have a built-in recycle bin or backup systems for deleted files. This absence makes the recovery process even more challenging.

Video Tutorial:

Method 1: How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android using Android Data Recovery Software

One of the most effective methods to recover permanently deleted files from Android is by using Android data recovery software. Follow these steps to recover your files:

Pros:
– Easy to use with a user-friendly interface
– Supports various file types
– Can recover deleted files from internal storage and SD cards

Cons:
– Some advanced features may require a paid version

1. Download and install a reputable Android data recovery software such as Dr.Fone or Tenorshare UltData for Android.
2. Launch the software and connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
3. Enable USB debugging on your Android device by following the on-screen instructions provided by the software.
4. Once your device is connected, the software will scan for deleted files, including photos, videos, documents, and more.
5. Preview the recoverable files and select the ones you want to recover.
6. Choose a location on your computer to save the recovered files and click on the "Recover" button.

Method 2: How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android using Google Drive

If you regularly back up your Android device using Google Drive, you can easily recover your deleted files. Here’s how:

Pros:
– Automatic backup of files
– Easy to use with any Google account
– Can recover files from any device connected to your Google account

Cons:
– Requires regular backups to be effective
– Limited storage space for free accounts

1. Open the Google Drive app on your Android device or visit the Google Drive website on a computer.
2. Log in with the Google account associated with your Android device.
3. Navigate to the "Trash" or "Bin" folder in Google Drive.
4. Search for the deleted file you want to recover.
5. Select the file and click on the "Restore" button.
6. The file will be restored to its original location in Google Drive.

Method 3: How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android using a File Manager App

If you haven’t overwritten the deleted files yet, you can try using a file manager app to recover them. Follow these steps:

Pros:
– No need to install additional software
– Can recover files directly on the Android device

Cons:
– Limited success rate
– Requires immediate action after file deletion

1. Download and install a file manager app from the Google Play Store, such as ES File Explorer or Solid Explorer.
2. Open the file manager app and navigate to the location where the deleted file was originally stored.
3. Look for a folder named "Trash," "Recycle Bin," or "Deleted Files."
4. If such a folder exists, open it and search for the deleted file.
5. Select the file and choose the option to restore or move it to its original location.

Method 4: How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android using DiskDigger

DiskDigger is another popular app that can help you recover deleted files from your Android device. Here’s how to use it:

Pros:
– Deep scanning for better recovery results
– Allows recovery of various file types
– Can recover files from both internal storage and SD cards

Cons:
– Requires the device to be rooted for better results
– Some advanced features may require a paid version

1. Download and install DiskDigger from the Google Play Store.
2. Run the app and grant it the necessary permissions to access your device’s storage.
3. Select the storage type you want to recover files from (internal storage or SD card).
4. Choose a scanning method – "Basic Scan" or "Full Scan." The full scan may take a longer time but offers better results.
5. Wait for the scanning process to complete.
6. Once the scan is finished, DiskDigger will display a list of recoverable files.
7. Select the files you want to recover and click on the "Recover" button.
8. Choose a location on your device to save the recovered files and confirm the recovery process.

Alternatives: What to Do If You Can’t Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Android

If the above methods do not yield the desired results, here are three alternative solutions you can try:

1. Contact Professional Data Recovery Services: If the files are extremely important and you are unable to recover them using software or built-in methods, consider contacting professional data recovery services. They have specialized tools and expertise to recover files from various storage devices, including Android devices.

2. Check Cloud Storage and Email Attachments: If you frequently back up your Android device using cloud storage services like Dropbox or OneDrive, or if you have received the files via email attachments, check those sources for a copy of the deleted files.

3. Retrieve from External Backup: If you have regularly backed up your Android device to an external storage device, such as a computer or external hard drive, you can restore the deleted files from the backup.

Bonus Tips

Here are three bonus tips to help you prevent data loss and maximize the chances of successful file recovery:

1. Regularly Back Up Your Android Device: Set up automatic backups using built-in features or third-party apps to ensure you always have a recent backup of your important files.

2. Avoid Overwriting Deleted Files: Once you delete a file, avoid adding new data to your Android device until you have attempted the recovery process. This helps prevent the deleted file from getting overwritten.

3. Use Cloud Storage Services: Store important files in cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These services provide an extra layer of protection and allow easy access to files from any device.

5 FAQs about Recovering Permanently Deleted Files from Android

Q1: Can I recover files that were deleted a long time ago?

A1: The chances of recovering files that were deleted a long time ago decrease over time, especially if you have used your Android device extensively and created new data since the deletion. However, it is still worth trying the methods mentioned in this blog post.

Q2: Do I need to root my Android device to recover deleted files?

A2: Rooting your Android device can enhance the chances of successful file recovery, especially with apps like DiskDigger. However, it is not always necessary, as some apps can recover files without root access.

Q3: Can I recover files from the internal storage and SD card at the same time?

A3: Yes, most Android data recovery software can recover files from both the internal storage and SD card simultaneously. Simply connect the Android device to your computer and select both storage options within the recovery software.

Q4: Are there any limitations to file recovery?

A4: The limitations of file recovery depend on various factors, such as the time elapsed since deletion, storage usage, and the efficiency of the recovery method used. Additionally, some file types may have lower chances of successful recovery.

Q5: Is it possible to recover files if the Android device is broken or not functioning?

A5: If the Android device is physically damaged or not functioning properly, the chances of recovering files directly from the device decrease significantly. In such cases, it is recommended to contact professional data recovery services.

In Conclusion

Losing important files from your Android device can be a frustrating experience, but with the right methods and tools, it is often possible to recover permanently deleted files. Remember to act quickly, avoid overwriting the deleted files, and utilize backup options to prevent future data loss. While the methods mentioned in this blog post offer promising results, it is important to note that not all files can be recovered successfully.