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How to Recover Deleted Files on Android

✅ Quick Answer

If you accidentally deleted photos, videos, or documents on Android, you can recover them using: the Recycle Bin, Google Photos Trash, Google Drive Backup, or recovery apps. In most cases, deleted files can be restored within 30 days using the Trash feature.


❓ Why Deleted Files Can Still Be Recovered?

When you delete a file on Android, it is not permanently removed immediately. Instead, it goes to Trash or Recycle Bin (depending on the app). This gives you a chance to recover it before it is permanently deleted.

However, if the file is removed from Trash or the phone storage is overwritten, recovery becomes difficult. That’s why you should act fast.


🔧 Fix 1: Recover from Google Photos Trash

Google Photos keeps deleted photos and videos in Trash for 60 days.

  1. Open Google Photos.
  2. Tap Library → Trash.
  3. Select the deleted photos or videos.
  4. Tap Restore.

The restored files will return to the original folder and show in your gallery.


🔧 Fix 2: Recover from File Manager Trash

Many phones (Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus) have a built-in Recycle Bin inside the File Manager.

  1. Open File Manager.
  2. Go to Trash / Recycle Bin.
  3. Select the deleted files.
  4. Tap Restore.

This method works for documents, videos, and downloaded files.


🔧 Fix 3: Restore from Google Drive Backup

If you enabled Google Drive backup, your photos and documents may be saved automatically.

  1. Open Google Drive.
  2. Tap My Drive.
  3. Search for the deleted file.
  4. Tap Download or Restore.

If you use Google Drive Backup, always check the backup folder first.


🔧 Fix 4: Use a Recovery App (DiskDigger / EaseUS)

If the file is not in Trash or backup, you can use recovery apps. These apps scan the storage for deleted files and recover them.

  1. Install DiskDigger or EaseUS MobiSaver from Play Store.
  2. Open the app and grant storage permission.
  3. Select the storage to scan.
  4. Choose the files and tap Recover.

Recovery apps work best when used immediately after deletion.


🔧 Fix 5: Recover from PC Using Software

If you can’t recover on your phone, connect it to PC and use recovery software.

  1. Connect your phone to PC using a USB cable.
  2. Enable File Transfer.
  3. Use software like Recuva or Dr.Fone.
  4. Scan the phone storage and recover files.

This method is more powerful but requires a PC.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I recover deleted files on Android?

Most apps keep deleted files in Trash for 30–60 days. After that, they are permanently deleted.

Can I recover files after clearing Trash?

It becomes difficult because the storage space is freed. Recovery apps may still help if the data is not overwritten.

Is it safe to use recovery apps?

Yes, but always use trusted apps from Google Play Store and avoid granting unnecessary permissions.


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