You can access and recover recently deleted files on your iPhone through the dedicated "Recently Deleted" folder within the Files app. This feature provides a grace period, typically 30 days, during which files remain recoverable before being permanently deleted.
How to Recover Recently Deleted Files on iPhone
Apple's Files app includes a "Recently Deleted" section, similar to a recycle bin on a computer, allowing you to retrieve items you've recently removed. Follow these steps to recover your files:
- Open the Files App: Locate and tap the Files app icon on your iPhone's home screen.
- Navigate to Browse Tab: Once inside the Files app, tap the Browse tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Access Recently Deleted: Under the "Locations" section, you will find and tap on Recently Deleted.
- Select and Recover Files:
- To recover multiple files, tap the More button (often represented by three dots or a circle with three dots inside) in the top-right corner, then tap Select. Choose the files you wish to restore, then tap Recover at the bottom.
- To recover a single file, simply touch and hold the file's icon, and then tap Recover from the contextual menu that appears.
Once recovered, the files will be moved back to their original location in the Files app.
Understanding the "Recently Deleted" Feature
The "Recently Deleted" folder acts as a temporary holding area for files you delete from the Files app. It's an essential safety net designed to prevent accidental permanent data loss.
| Feature Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Found within the Files app, under the Browse tab, listed in Locations. |
| Retention Period | Files typically remain in "Recently Deleted" for 30 days. After this period, they are automatically and permanently removed from your device and iCloud Drive. |
| File Types | Primarily applies to files stored directly in the Files app or linked cloud services (like iCloud Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc., if integrated). Other apps (e.g., Photos, Notes, Mail) have their own separate "Recently Deleted" folders for their specific content. |
| Permanent Deletion | You can manually delete files from the "Recently Deleted" folder before the 30-day period expires by tapping Select, choosing the files, and then tapping Delete. This action is irreversible. |
Important Note: This method specifically addresses files deleted from the Files app. If you are looking to recover photos, videos, notes, or other types of data, those apps (e.g., Photos, Notes, Voice Memos) typically have their own "Recently Deleted" sections within their respective applications. Files that have been permanently deleted from the "Recently Deleted" folder cannot be recovered using this method.
