Recovering lost or deleted data from an iPhone can be tricky, especially if you don’t have a backup. There are a few options for trying to get your data back depending on the situation.
Using iPhone backups
The best and easiest way to recover lost iPhone data is from an iPhone backup. There are two main types of iPhone backups:
- iCloud backup – Apple provides 5GB of free iCloud storage that can be used to automatically back up your iPhone. You can also purchase more iCloud storage.
- iTunes backup – You can connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes and perform a backup to save data locally.
As long as you have a relatively recent backup, you should be able to recover deleted photos, messages, contacts, and more. To restore from a backup:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your name at the top.
- Tap on iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups.
- Tap on the name of the device backup you want to restore from.
- Tap on Restore iPhone and confirm.
Your iPhone data will be overwritten with the version from your backup. Make sure the backup is fairly recent or you may lose data created after that backup was made.
iPhone data recovery software
If you don’t have an iPhone backup, third-party iOS data recovery software represents your best chance to get lost or deleted files back. These programs work by scanning your iPhone for residual data left behind even after you delete something.
Some top iPhone data recovery software options include:
- Tenorshare UltData – Works for recovering messages, photos, videos, contacts, notes, call logs, WhatsApp data, and more. Can extract data even from broken iOS devices.
- iMyFone D-Back – Recovers up to 30 types of lost iPhone data. Allows previewing recoverable data.
- iMazing – Retrieves data directly from iOS devices or encrypted backups. Works on Mac and Windows computers.
- EaseUS MobiSaver -Recovers data after accidental deletion, iOS update, jailbreak, etc. Free trial available.
The recovery process involves connecting your iPhone to a computer and scanning it with the software. You can then select the data types you want to recover and save them to your computer.
Professional data recovery service
For more serious iPhone data loss situations, such as water damage or hardware failure, you may need to turn to a professional data recovery service. They have access to advanced tools and techniques that can extract data even from iPhones that won’t turn on.
Expect to pay at least $500-$1000+ for iPhone data recovery from a dedicated service. It’s not cheap, but can be worth it for irreplaceable data. Some companies that offer iPhone data recovery include:
- DriveSavers – Offers free diagnostics and has ISO certified cleanrooms for hardware repairs.
- Kroll Ontrack – Uses proprietary recovery tools and has decades of digital forensics experience.
- Secure Data Recovery – Provides emergency iPhone data recovery services.
- Gillware – Mail-in iPhone data recovery service with fixed pricing.
To start the iPhone data recovery process, you’ll ship your device to the company for analysis. They should be able to provide an assessment of recoverability and costs after diagnosis. If the data is recoverable, they can perform the specialized recovery procedures before returning your device.
Apple Support
For less extreme recovery cases, you can contact Apple Support to see if they can help retrieve lost iPhone data.
Apple doesn’t advertise or guarantee data recovery services. However, there are some reports of customer service representatives assisting with data recovery in certain situations:
- Recovering data from a recent backup.
- Extracting data from a damaged iPhone before a replacement.
- Helping access an iCloud account for iCloud backup retrieval.
There are no guarantees and Apple Support should not be relied upon as your sole option for iPhone data recovery. But it doesn’t hurt to contact them and politely ask for help if you’ve exhausted other options. At worst they say no, at best you get your files back.
iPhone data recovery precautions
Before attempting iPhone recovery, there are some precautions you should take:
- Avoid using your iPhone – Continued use of your iPhone could overwrite deleted files making them less recoverable.
- Don’t restore from backup yet – Restoring from a backup will wipe your iPhone and overwrite existing data.
- Back up first – If your phone is still accessible, back up to iCloud or iTunes before recovery attempts.
Following these tips will give you the best chance of successful iPhone data recovery.
How to choose an iPhone data recovery method
Choosing the best iPhone data recovery method depends on your specific situation:
- If you have a recent iPhone backup, restore from the backup first. It’s fast and easy.
- Use iPhone data recovery software for retrieving deleted files without a backup.
- Professional services offer the most advanced recovery for severely damaged or corrupted iPhones.
- Try Apple support for complimentary help if other options fail.
Consider how much data loss you have, what types of files need recovery, and how much time has passed since deletion. This will guide you towards the ideal iPhone data recovery solution.
Top 5 recovered iPhone data types
According to Apple support forums and iPhone recovery services, these are the most common types of data people look to recover from their iPhones:
- Messages – SMS/MMS messages or iMessages.
- Photos – Camera photos or videos stored in the Photos app.
- Contacts – Names, phone numbers, emails, etc. from Contacts app.
- Notes – Text, images, or files saved in Apple Notes app.
- Call History – Call logs showing incoming/outgoing calls.
Being able to get these types of important personal data back offers significant peace of mind for iPhone users.
How much does iPhone data recovery cost?
The cost to recover lost iPhone data really depends on the method:
- Using an existing backup = Free
- iPhone recovery software = $40-$100 license fee, sometimes more for advanced versions
- Professional recovery service = $500-$1500+ depending on case severity
- Apple support = Free if they can help recover data
Cheaper options like software should be tried first before considering pricier professional recovery. But for valuable personal data, the high cost of a recovery service is often worthwhile compared to the value of the lost files and peace of mind.
Preventing iPhone data loss
They key to avoiding the need for iPhone data recovery is prevention:
- Always maintain a current backup via iCloud or iTunes.
- Avoid deleting anything you might want later.
- Don’t jailbreak or modify your iPhone software.
- Protect your iPhone from damage by using a case.
- Update to the latest iOS version for bug fixes.
Following best practices for using and handling your iPhone is the surest way to avoid data loss. But if something does happen, at least you’ll know the available options to recover your important personal files and contacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you recover permanently deleted photos from iPhone?
Yes, it’s often possible to recover deleted photos from an iPhone, even if you permanently deleted them from the Photos app or Camera Roll. As long as the data hasn’t been overwritten, iPhone data recovery software or professional services can scan the device and retrieve deleted photos and videos.
How do I recover unsaved notes on iPhone?
If you forgot to save an Apple note on your iPhone, try these recovery methods:
- Restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup made before the note was lost.
- Use iPhone data recovery software to extract notes data from device.
- Take to Apple Support or a professional recovery service.
Can you get back deleted text messages on iPhone?
Recovering deleted iPhone text messages is possible if you act quickly and don’t overwrite the data. You can restore from an iCloud backup, use iPhone recovery software, or turn to professional data recovery firms to extract deleted SMS and iMessages.
How long does iPhone data recovery take?
It really depends on the recovery method:
- Restoring from a backup = Under 1 hour typically
- iPhone recovery software = Can take several hours to complete full scan and data retrieval
- Professional service = Days or weeks sending away and getting back your device
You may be able to preview recovered data quickly with software, but full recovery takes time. Professional services take the longest but offer the most advanced recovery.
Is iPhone data recovery guaranteed?
Unfortunately nothing is guaranteed when it comes to iPhone data recovery. However, you have the best chances by:
- Using reputable recovery software and services with positive reviews.
- Acting quickly before deleted data gets overwritten.
- Not attempting fixes that could worsen data loss.
- Trying multiple recovery methods if needed.
Finding an experienced recovery specialist for difficult cases gives you the best shot at success.
