How to Retrieve Deleted Videos on iPhone

Accidentally deleting a video from your iPhone can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to recover lost videos. With modern data recovery techniques and tools available, your chances of retrieving deleted videos are better than ever. Let’s explore various methods that can help you reclaim your precious recordings from the abyss of the digital void.

Check the ‘Recently Deleted’ Folder

iPhones have a built-in safety net for accidental deletions. When you delete a video, it’s moved to the ‘Recently Deleted’ album. Videos remain here for 30 days before permanent deletion occurs. Check this folder as your first step:

• Open the ‘Photos’ app on your iPhone.
• Navigate to the ‘Albums’ tab at the bottom.
• Scroll down and select ‘Recently Deleted’.
• Look for your deleted video. If you find it, tap ‘Recover’ to restore it back to your library.

If your video is here, it’s the quickest way to undo your mistake. Remember, act fast as time is of the essence with this method.

Restore from an iCloud Backup

If the video isn’t in ‘Recently Deleted’, restoring from a backup is another viable option. iCloud can automatically back up your data when your device is connected to Wi-Fi and charging. Check your most recent backup:

• Go to ‘Settings’ on your iPhone.
• Tap your Apple ID banner at the top, then go to ‘iCloud’.
• Select ‘Manage Storage’, then ‘Backups’.
• Choose your device to see the date and size of the latest backup.

To restore from an iCloud backup, you’ll need to erase all content currently on the phone, which can be inconvenient but effective:

• In ‘Settings’, tap ‘General’, then ‘Reset’.
• Select ‘Erase All Content and Settings’.
• Follow the setup process until you reach the ‘Apps & Data’ section.
• Choose ‘Restore from iCloud Backup’, and sign in with your Apple ID.
• Pick the appropriate backup and wait for the process to finish.

This method can be a lifesaver if your backups are recent and automatic. Make sure you won’t lose any new data added after the backup was made.

Use Third-Party Recovery Software

When Apple’s solutions fall short, third-party recovery software can be a viable solution. Tools like Dr.Fone, PhoneRescue, and iMobie are popular choices in this realm. Though not guaranteed, they often have better success rates than Apple’s methods. Here’s how to use such software:

• Download and install your chosen recovery tool on your PC or Mac.
• Connect your iPhone to the computer with a USB cable.
• Launch the software and follow the instructions to scan your device.
• After the scan, preview the found videos and select the ones you want to restore.
• Proceed with the recovery process as guided by the software.

Choose reputable brands to ensure safety and effectiveness. Some software might ask for purchase or a subscription for full features to recover data.

Retrieve via iTunes Backup

If you regularly sync your iPhone with iTunes, there’s a chance your video is backed up there. Here’s how you can access and restore from an iTunes backup:

• Connect your iPhone to the computer you normally sync with.
• Open iTunes (or Finder if using macOS Catalina and later).
• Select your device icon when it appears.
• Choose ‘Summary’ from the sidebar menu.
• Click on ‘Restore Backup’, and select the most relevant backup.
• Wait for the process to complete before disconnecting.

This will revert your phone back to the state it was in at the time of the backup. Be mindful of potential data loss for items not included in the backup.

Leverage Photo Library with iCloud

If you’re using iCloud Photo Library, your videos might still be available online even if deleted from the device. iCloud syncs changes across all devices, offering another safety net for recovery. Verify iCloud settings:

• Go to ‘Settings’, tap your Apple ID banner, then choose ‘iCloud’.
• Ensure ‘Photos’ is toggled on.
• Sign into iCloud.com on your computer.
• Access ‘Photos’ and check for the deleted video.

If the visual asset appears there, download it to your computer or re-upload it to your device. Let’s understand how cloud storage can act as a fail-safe in these situations.

Contact Apple Support

When all other methods are exhausted, and your video holds immense value, reaching out to Apple Support can be a last resort. Apple’s technical team may offer solutions specific to your situation, which aren’t publicly accessible. Here’s how to contact them:

• Visit the Apple Support website.
• Schedule a call with a technician or use online chat.
• Explain your issue thoroughly to receive guided assistance.

Apple Support technicians might have additional suggestions based on the expertise they provide to clients with similar issues.

Understanding these recovery techniques will prepare you to handle accidental deletions confidently. Knowing your options can save time and avoid potential panic after losing a cherished video on your iPhone.