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Losing valuable photos can be distressing, but the good news is that there are effective methods for free deleted photo recovery on both mobile devices and SD cards.
Below is a detailed guide to help you restore those precious memories.
Free recovery of deleted photos on mobile phones
Android
- Check your Google Photos trash:
Open the app, go to “Library,” then “Trash,” select the images, and tap “Restore.” - Use recovery applications:
- DiskDigger: Scan your device and recover images without root (in basic mode).
- All Recovery: Simple and fast way to restore accidentally deleted photos and videos.

All Recovery
iPhone
- Check out the album “Deleted”:
Go to the Photos app, go to “Albums,” then “Deleted,” select what you want to recover, and tap “Recover.” - Use recovery apps:
There are specific apps that allow you to recover deleted photos and videos, with intuitive processes and without technical complications.
Free recovery of deleted photos on SD cards
- Connect the SD card to the computer:
Use a reader or connect it directly from your mobile device. - Use free recovery software:
- Programs like Disk Drill or EaseUS allow you to recover deleted files without paying, with deep scans that detect data even after formatting.
Tips to avoid losing photos in the future
- Automatically back up to the cloud.
- Avoid formatting devices without verifying their contents.
- Use only reliable recovery tools.
- Do not continue using the affected device as this could overwrite lost data.
More difficult cases: Can you still recover your photos?
In some more complex situations, such as complete formatting or physical damage to the device, recovering deleted photos for free may seem impossible.
But there is still hope, depending on the scenario.
If the mobile was formatted
Although formatting erases visible files, data often remains stored until it is overwritten. In these cases:
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- Avoid using your phone or SD card immediately after formatting.
- Use advanced recovery tools that scan hidden memory sectors.
- Some free programs allow you to preview recoverable files before paying for the full version.
If the SD card is damaged
An SD card can be logically damaged (read error) or physically damaged (cracked or burned). If it's logically damaged:
- Try changing the reader or USB port.
- Use tools like CHKDSK in Windows to repair file system errors.
- Run a deep scan with free recovery software.
If the damage is physical, do not attempt to open or manipulate the card. In that case, it's best to consult a professional.
Recovery from the cloud
If you had automatic backups enabled (Google Photos, iCloud, OneDrive), your images are likely still there, even if you deleted them from your device.
Simply access from another mobile device or browser, log in, and check your photo history.
Free Photo Recovery: Which Method Is Best?
Choosing the best method depends on three factors: the type of device, the level of damage, and whether you used backups. Here's a summary to help you decide:
- For recent deletion on Android or iPhone mobiles: Check the trash or use a recovery app.
- For SD cards: Connect to the PC and use a program like Disk Drill.
- If there are backups in the cloud: Log in from any device and recover with one click.
Common myths about recovering deleted photos
- "If I deleted it, it no longer exists." – False. Data persists until overwritten.
- "I need to be an expert to recover files." – False. Many apps and programs are intuitive and free.
- "Free apps don't work" – False. Several programs offer powerful features without paying.
FAQs about free deleted photo recovery
How long do I have to recover photos after deleting them?
It depends on the system:
- On Google Photos: up to 30 or 60 days in the trash.
- On iPhone: 30 days in the “Deleted” album.
- On internal storage without backup: As long as the data is not overwritten, it can be recovered even weeks later.
Can I recover photos without using a computer?
Yes. There are mobile apps that do everything from the device itself.
Just make sure you grant the necessary permissions and don't install any unknown apps that could put your information at risk.
Do free apps really work?
Many do. They offer limited features, but they're sufficient for recovering recent photos.
For more extreme cases (formatting, data corruption), you may need a paid version, but even then you can view recoverable files before deciding.
Mistakes to avoid when trying to recover photos
- Continue using the device: : Each new photo can overwrite the memory where the deleted image was.
- Format without backup: Once done, many photos are permanently lost if you don't have a backup in the cloud.
- Trusting dubious apps- Don't download just anything. Check reviews, ratings, and privacy policies.
- Not acting in time: The more time passes, the less chance there is of successful recovery.
Recommended free tools
Here are some useful options you can look for in official stores or trusted sites:
- For Android: DiskDigger, All Recovery, Dumpster.
- For iOS: Recover Deleted Photos, iMyFone D-Back (Limited Free Mode).
- For PC/Mac: Recuva, PhotoRec, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (free mode).
- In the cloud: Google Photos, OneDrive, Dropbox, iCloud.
All of these have free versions that allow you to try out their features risk-free.
Recovering photos is possible (and free)
Losing pictures can seem like a disaster, but thanks to modern tools, free deleted photo recovery is within everyone's reach.
You just need to act quickly, choose the right method, and avoid further use of the device to avoid overwriting lost data.
Want to make sure you never lose a valuable image again?
Save this guide and start protecting your memories today.
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