Losing data stored on a broken iPhone can be devastating. Photos, videos, contacts, notes, and other information may seem unrecoverable when an iPhone is damaged or no longer functions properly. However, there are several methods that may allow you to retrieve data from a broken iPhone depending on the type of damage and the data you need to recover.
Quick Overview of iPhone Data Recovery Options for a Broken Device
Here is a quick overview of the main options for trying to recover data from an iPhone that is damaged, disabled, or non-functional:
- iPhone Backup – Restore from an iTunes or iCloud backup if available
- Professional Data Recovery Service – Companies can repair some damage and recover data directly from the iPhone’s storage
- DIY Data Recovery Software – Special software can recover data by connecting the iPhone’s storage chip to a computer
- iCloud – If the iPhone is still remotely functional, you may be able to recover some iCloud data such as photos
- Apple Store – Genius Bar staff may be able to help recover data depending on the iPhone’s condition
Evaluating the Extent of the Damage
Before determining the best method for data recovery, you need to thoroughly evaluate the extent of the damage to the iPhone. Some types of damage will make certain data recovery methods impossible. Here are some key things to check:
- Does the phone power on at all? If not, the main computing components may be damaged.
- Is the screen totally cracked or blacked out? Visually inspect for external damage.
- Is the iPhone getting any signs of life like sounds, vibration, or charging response?
- Has the iPhone been exposed to liquid or other contamination?
- Were there any errors reported before the iPhone stopped working?
- Can you access settings, apps, or functions like flashlight at all?
- Will the iPhone connect properly when plugging into power or a computer?
Severe damage like a crushed device, motherboard failure, or catastrophic liquid exposure will limit data recovery options. Milder issues like software crashes or screen failure may still allow data retrieval.
Attempting Data Recovery Through iPhone Backups
One of the simplest ways to recover data from an iPhone that won’t turn on properly is to restore from a backup. The iPhone’s most recent backup can provide access to much of your data without needing to repair the iPhone itself. There are two main types of iPhone backups to try:
iTunes Backups
If you consistently backed up your iPhone to iTunes on a computer, connecting the iPhone and restoring from an iTunes backup may work. Follow these steps:
- Connect your damaged iPhone to the computer it synced with via USB
- Open iTunes on that computer
- See if the iPhone shows up and can be detected by iTunes
- Look for the latest backup and opt to Restore iPhone
- The backup data should load onto your iPhone from iTunes
This will only work if the iPhone is still able to communicate properly with the computer when connected with the USB cable. If the phone cannot be recognized at all, the iTunes restore method will fail.
iCloud Backups
Another option is restoring from an iCloud backup if the phone was set up properly with iCloud. To check this:
- On a working iPhone or computer, log into iCloud and look for available backups
- Select the desired backup associated with the broken iPhone
- When prompted, choose to restore onto the broken iPhone from this iCloud backup
This may work if the broken iPhone can still receive WiFi or cellular data connections. If the device is too damaged to turn on or connect to the internet, iCloud restores will not be possible.
Using a Professional Data Recovery Service
If iPhone backups are unavailable or unable to assist with data recovery, you may need to rely on a professional recovery service. Companies like DriveSavers and Kroll Ontrack provide sophisticated iPhone data recovery solutions. Some of the ways they can help include:
External Repairs
Many damaged iPhones with software issues can have data retrieved once external repairs are completed. This may involve:
- Replacing cracked screens
- Swapping damaged charge ports
- Testing electrical components and circuitry
- Completely replacing broken touchscreens
If the phone powers back on after repairs, data can often then be recovered normally or using recovery software.
Micro-Soldering
Where physical damage has rendered connectors or ports unusable, micro-soldering provides surgical repairs at the board level. Experts use specialized tools to reattach small connections. Common micro-soldering jobs include:
- USB port repairs
- Charging slot fixes
- Audio jack replacements
- Reattaching processors and chips
This very delicate work can bring iPhones back online after significant damage.
Data Extraction from Storage
In some cases where the main iPhone CPU is too damaged to power on, data can still be pulled from the iPhone’s storage chips directly. This involves carefully removing the storage components from the iPhone and reading them using advanced tools. The process allows recovery of deleted files and data that would not be obtainable any other way.
Keep in mind that professional data recovery does not come cheap – costs often start over $1000 and can run into the multiple thousands for difficult cases.
Using DIY Data Recovery Software
Rather than going to a recovery company, some users may want to attempt iPhone data recovery themselves using software designed for this purpose. Options like iMyFone iPhone Data Recovery work similarly to professional tools by connecting an iPhone’s memory chips directly to a computer. Key capabilities include:
- Compatibility with all iPhone models
- Support for iOS versions back to iOS 4
- Recovery of up to 30+ file types
- Retrieval of data from broken, crashed, or water-damaged devices
- Scanning of iPhone storage without restoring or altering data
The general DIY iPhone data recovery process involves:
- Disassembling the iPhone to access storage components
- Carefully removing memory chips from the logic board
- Attaching a special adapter to read chips via USB
- Scanning the raw storage contents using software
- Accessing found files, photos. messages, notes and more
While cheaper than professional services, this DIY approach requires technical skill and risks irreparable data loss if chips are damaged during disassembly. Consider your technical comfort level before attempting.
Recovering Limited Data from iCloud
If you are unable to restore a full iCloud backup, it may still be possible to recover some data directly from iCloud using a functioning iPhone or computer that is already logged into your iCloud account. Depending on iPhone settings and usage, you may be able to retrieve:
- Photos – iCloud Photo Library automatically syncs photos across devices
- Contacts – Especially if contacts were synced to iCloud from the broken iPhone
- Calendars – View shared calendars or see events synced from the damaged device
- Notes – Read any notes synced to iCloud from the iPhone
- Backups – Partial or limited backups may be accessible
While you won’t get complete data access this way, it’s worth checking iCloud for any files or records you may urgently need.
Visiting an Apple Store for Data Recovery Assistance
As a last resort, you can turn to Apple experts themselves and visit an Apple retail store for in-person help recovering data. Options may include:
- Running diagnostics to assess the extent of the damage
- Attempting data transfers from the iPhone directly
- Restoring from a backup onto a loaner iPhone
- Facilitating out-of-warranty repairs needed for data access
- Answering questions about contacting professional data recovery firms
Keep in mind data recovery assistance will depend on demand, availability, and the discretion of the technicians. Severely damaged devices may still require third-party data recovery services.
Choosing the Best Approach Based on Damage Type
With the various options explored, here are some guidelines for choosing the best method based on the type of damage to your iPhone:
| iPhone Damage | Recommended Data Recovery Methods |
|---|---|
| Won’t power on | Professional repair or DIY data extraction |
| Cracked screen | iPhone backup restore after screen replacement |
| Water damaged | Professional disassembly and repair |
| Bad logic board | Micro-soldering repairs or chip data extraction |
| Cannot detect device | Apple Store diagnostics or motherboard repair |
Prioritize inexpensive software data recovery methods before resorting to costly repairs or data extraction methods, where possible.
Preparing for iPhone Data Loss Before Problems Occur
While this guide provides options for recovering data from a broken iPhone, the best approach is being proactive before experiencing any device failures. Here are some tips to avoid potential data loss scenarios:
- Backup regularly – Frequently backup to both iCloud and iTunes when possible
- Use protective cases – Don’t risk cracks and water damage that can ruin iPhones
- Encrypt iPhone – Enable encryption so stolen devices stay secure
- Know account details – Make sure you can still access iCloud if needed
- Handle with care – Be mindful to avoid drops, accidents and liquid contact
- Update software – Don’t avoid updates, as they patch vulnerabilities
While nothing can guarantee an iPhone will never suffer damage, smart preventative care is the ultimate way to stay in control of your data.
Conclusion
Data loss when an iPhone breaks can be devastating. However, there are techniques both DIY and professional to retrieve inaccessible data from damaged devices in many scenarios. Assess the specific damage, research options carefully, and don’t give up hope. Just be sure to prioritize prevention by handling your iPhone with care and staying on top of backups.