Recovering lost or deleted data from an iPhone is often possible, but depends on several factors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine the ins and outs of iPhone data recovery and help you determine if recovering your lost iPhone data is doable.
Can you recover deleted files from iPhone?
Yes, it is possible to recover deleted files from an iPhone, provided the data has not been overwritten. When you delete something on an iPhone, it is not erased immediately. Instead, the reference to the data is removed from the file table, making the space available to be overwritten by new data. As long as the original data remains intact, it can be recovered using data recovery software or professional services.
However, there is a window in which deleted iPhone data can be recovered. Over time, the operating system will overwrite the space occupied by deleted files with new data. This makes recovery progressively more difficult and eventually impossible. So for the best chance of recovery, you need to act quickly and avoid using the iPhone if possible until you can attempt recovery.
What types of data can be recovered from an iPhone?
Many different types of files and data can potentially be recovered from an iPhone, including:
- Messages – iMessages, SMS messages, MMS messages
- Contacts – names, phone numbers, addresses, etc.
- Call history – incoming/outgoing call logs
- Voicemails
- Photos and videos
- Calendar events
- Notes
- Voice memos
- Safari browsing history
- Health/activity data
- App data
Essentially, any data stored on the iPhone’s storage can be recovered as long as it has not been overwritten. However, keep in mind that not all data may be recoverable in all situations.
Factors that affect iPhone data recovery
There are several key factors that will determine whether or not iPhone data can be recovered successfully:
- Speed of action – As noted above, the faster you attempt recovery, the better your chances. With less time for overwriting to occur, more data will remain intact.
- iPhone model – Newer iPhone models have faster storage and may overwrite data quicker than older models.
- Amount of use – Using the iPhone less before attempting recovery reduces the chance of overwriting.
- Type of data loss – A failed OS update or software crash is more recoverable than intentional deletion.
- Encryption – Encrypted iPhones are much harder to recover data from.
- iPhone damage – Physical damage can make recovery impossible.
- iCloud backups – Having an intact iCloud backup facilitates easier restoration of data.
Understanding these factors will help set proper expectations on what can realistically be recovered from an iPhone.
Is iPhone data recovery worth it?
Due to the complexity involved, recovering lost iPhone data can be an expensive endeavor. Apple itself does not offer data recovery services. Instead, you’ll need to turn to third-party data recovery companies that specialize in iOS devices. Costs typically start around $300 but can range into the thousands for extensive recovery jobs.
With this in mind, you’ll need to determine if the value of your lost iPhone data outweighs the cost of recovery. For most, personal data like photos and videos are priceless, making professional recovery services well worth the expense. But in some cases, such an expensive undertaking may not make financial sense if less valuable data was lost.
How to choose an iPhone data recovery service
If you’ve deemed iPhone data recovery worth pursuing, choosing the right service provider is key. Here are tips for selecting a capable recovery company:
- Look for experience specifically with iOS/iPhone data recovery.
- Check reviews and testimonials from past clients.
- Ask about security protocols for protecting your personal data.
- Understand the full costs upfront before committing.
- Look for certification from DRI (Data Recovery Institute).
- Avoid companies making unrealistic guarantees or inflated claims.
- Check for free diagnostics or a money-back guarantee if unsatisfied.
Taking the time to carefully choose a trusted iPhone data recovery provider will offer you the best chance of success.
Best practices for iPhone data recovery
While there are never any guarantees with data recovery, following best practices will optimize the chances of restoring your lost iPhone data:
- Stop using the iPhone immediately – Prevent overwriting by avoiding usage.
- Do not restore from a backup yet – This will overwrite existing data.
- Keep the iPhone in Airplane Mode – Blocks calls/texts that could overwrite data.
- Remove SIM card – Stops network access to eliminate overwriting risk.
- Plug into power – Keeps battery charged to avoid data loss.
- Use a professional recovery service – DIY software often fails to recover all data fully.
Carefully following this protocol maximizes recoverable iPhone data for professionals to restore for you.
DIY data recovery methods: Do they work?
There are do-it-yourself methods and software tools that claim the ability to recover lost iPhone data. However, effectiveness is often limited compared to professional services:
iOS data recovery software
Third-party iOS data recovery apps can sometimes recover limited amounts of lost data. But they often fail with encrypted devices, and rarely restore a complete data set. Success rates are generally under 50%, making them an unreliable DIY option.
iCloud restore
If you have an iCloud backup, you can restore a previous backup of your data. However, this will only restore data to the date of your last backup. So any data after that point, or never backed up, will be lost.
iTunes backup restore
Similarly, restore from an iTunes backup will only recover data present at that backup point. It does not help recover recently deleted files or never-backed-up data.
Jailbreaking
Jailbreaking gives access to the iPhone’s file system for direct data recovery. But it’s complex, and still often fails to recover complete iPhone data sets. Advanced skills are required.
Overall, DIY iPhone data recovery options are hit-or-miss. For more reliable and extensive data recovery, turning to professional services is advisable in most situations.
Preparing your iPhone for data recovery
Before sending your iPhone off for professional data recovery, preparing the device properly can help ensure the best outcome. Follow these tips:
- Charge the iPhone fully.
- Disable passcodes/Touch ID/Face ID.
- Turn off Find My iPhone.
- Remove SIM card and disconnect from WiFi.
- Gather accessories like charging cable.
- Backup health data separately if desired.
- Remove phone case and screen protectors.
- Have the original box or protective case for shipping.
Taking steps to stabilize your iPhone and make it accessible to technicians will optimize chances of successfully restoring your data.
How long does iPhone data recovery take?
The length of time an iPhone data recovery job takes can vary widely depending on factors like:
- Amount of data to recover
- Type of data loss (deletion, water damage, failed update, etc.)
- iPhone model and condition
- Encryption status
- Technician workload/backlog
Most jobs take anywhere from 24 hours up to 1-2 weeks. Extremely extensive recovery work on heavily damaged devices can sometimes take longer. Expect to get periodic case updates from your chosen data recovery service. Patience is required as recovering lost iPhone data is a delicate, complex process.
iPhone data recovery risks
While reputable iPhone data recovery services take precautions, there are some risks to be aware of:
- No guarantee of success – Full recovery is not always possible depending on damage or overwriting.
- Voiding warranty – Apple may void hardware warranty if serviced by unapproved techs.
- Damage during service – Recovering data may require disassembly which has inherent risks.
- Privacy concerns – Ensure recovery company has strict security measures for protecting personal data.
- High costs – Professional-grade recovery is expensive, with no guarantees.
Reputable companies will provide full transparency around these risks so you can make an informed decision before proceeding.
Tips for avoiding iPhone data loss
While iPhone data recovery is possible in many situations, prevention is always preferable. Follow these tips to avoid data loss in the first place:
- Maintain regular iCloud and iTunes backups of all important data.
- Enable automatic backup options like iCloud photo library.
- Avoid disconnecting during major iOS updates.
- Never force restart a frozen device.
- Take care to not delete important data.
- Handle iPhone carefully to prevent physical damage.
- Encrypt iPhone storage for added protection.
- Install OS and app updates promptly for stability.
- Consider supplemental cloud backup services like Dropbox.
Practicing careful data management and device handling habits will help you avoid the need for complex, costly iPhone data recovery in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Below we’ve answered some of the most common questions around iPhone data recovery:
Can you recover permanently deleted photos from iPhone?
Yes, a data recovery service can often recover photos even after permanent deletion as long as they have not yet been overwritten. Act quickly for the best chance.
How can I view and recover deleted texts on iPhone?
With a data recovery service, you can recover deleted texts as long as they are still intact. DIY options rarely recover complete message history.
Is there any free data recovery software for iPhone?
None of the free tools offer complete, reliable iPhone data recovery. Paid professional services deliver the full range of capabilities needed for extensive recovery.
Can Apple Store recover deleted files from iPhone?
No, Apple does not offer any official in-house iPhone data recovery services. You’ll need to use a professional third-party recovery company.
How much does it cost to recover data from a dead iPhone?
For an iPhone with hardware failure, data recovery costs typically start around $400-$600 but can exceed $1000+ depending on extent of work needed.
Is it worth paying to recover iPhone data?
For most, the value of personal data like photos or messages makes professional iPhone data recovery worth paying for. But less critical data may not warrant the high costs.
Can iPhone data be recovered after a factory reset?
If no new data has been written since the reset, then recovery is often possible as the original data still exists intact. But quick action is required.
Conclusion
Recovering lost or deleted data from your iPhone is often possible with the help of professional data recovery services. While costs can be high, critical personal data is invaluable for most users, making iPhone data recovery well worth pursuing. Just be sure to act quickly before potential overwriting, and take steps to avoid data loss in the future by implementing solid backup strategies for your important iOS data.